Employability manager volunteer roles in East of england
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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information, and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents, and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.
Our Employability Project
10am to 3pm, Monday and/or Friday during term-time
Our Employment & Life Skills Project (ELSP) helps adults with learning disabilities or autism to access further education, work experience and visits to mainstream community opportunities.
What you’ll do
You’ll act as a mentor to the members of the group. You’ll be helping the group(s) develop a range of life skills, things that many of us take for granted. These include Maths and English skills, independent living, the use of public transport, social skills and even the sourcing of employment.
For the people in these groups, these things can be very difficult to develop and achieve without regular support. Through regular support and meetings, members and volunteers develop greater trust, skills, and confidence together.
Come along and get involved!
Requirements
What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 20.
How much time?
The project runs from 10am to 3pm, Mondays and/or Fridays during term-time.
Everyone gets the most out of the project if you come every week for at least a term as you'll build a close relationship with the members you'll have been supporting and will create the most impact.
What we can offer you
ELSP represents a fantastic opportunity for you to share your knowledge and experience built up through a lifetime to a group that is continuing to develop and achieve their targets.
We’ll reimburse your travel expenses and will provide excellent training and lots of helpful support.
By volunteering on our project you'll also:
- Use and develop your skills: time-management, working within a team, problem-solving and adaptability.
- Learn something new, get involved in fun activities with others.
- Increase your confidence.
- Meet like-minded people and make friends.
- Gain experience for (other) work
- Give something back to the community.
- Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time
- Challenge yourself.
What about training?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.
This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and also gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.
Topics we cover include:
- Autism
- Safeguarding
- Creativity & Participation
- Negotiation & Boundaries
When do I need to come?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a DBS check before taking part.
We'll be running face-to-face training in north London starting on the 15th February with lots of other dates to choose from.
In the meantime, we'll be meeting volunteers online from mid-January.
Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details.
Just sign up and you'll receive details of what to do next.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Job Title: Programme Manager
Reports To: Programme Director
Location: Hybrid
Employment Type: Full - Time
About the Project – “Solta o Jogo”
“Solta o Jogo” is an exciting cultural competition and community festival celebrating Brazilian traditions through Capoeira, music, dance, and acrobatics. Hosted at Kingston University Townhouse, this event offers free taster classes, performances, and a vibrant Brazilian arts & products fair—engaging local communities and encouraging cross-cultural learning.
We are looking for a Programme Manager to oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of the event. This hybrid volunteering role requires a commitment of 12 hours per week for 6 months. It is best suited for someone based near Kingston, as travel expenses will be reimbursed. This is a great opportunity to lead a high-profile community initiative that has previously been praised by local councillors, Kingston University, and the Brazilian Consulate in London.
Position Overview:
The Programme Manager oversees the strategic delivery of a multi-project programme focused on enhancing employability and skills development for target populations. This role ensures alignment with organisational and community goals, driving initiatives that reduce skills gaps, improve workforce readiness, and foster partnerships with employers and training providers. Reporting to the Programme Director, the Programme Manager manages a team of project specialists and coordinators, ensuring seamless execution of programme activities and measurable impact.
Key Responsibilities:
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Programme Leadership:
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Lead the end-to-end employability and skills development programme delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
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Mentor and manage project specialists and coordinators, assigning tasks tied to programme milestones such as training workshops, employer partnerships, and participant assessments.
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Stakeholder Collaboration:
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Build and maintain relationships with employers, educational institutions, government agencies, and community organisations to align programme outcomes with labour market needs.
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Act as the primary point of contact for external partners, ensuring their requirements (e.g., hiring criteria, certification standards) are integrated into programme design.
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Programme Design & Delivery:
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Oversee the development of training curricula, mentorship initiatives, and job placement strategies tailored to diverse participant groups (e.g., youth, career changers).
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Monitor participant progress and employment outcomes, using data to refine programme effectiveness.
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Risk & Compliance Management:
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Identify barriers to participant success (e.g., accessibility, resource gaps) and escalate systemic challenges to the Programme Manager with actionable solutions.
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Reporting & Communication:
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Track and report on key metrics such as participant engagement, skill acquisition rates, and post-programme employment status.
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Prepare updates for senior leadership and stakeholders to demonstrate programme impact.
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Process Improvement:
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Implement feedback loops with participants and partners to continuously enhance programme quality.
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Promote best practices in adult education, vocational training, and equity-focused initiatives.
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Required Qualifications:
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Human Resources, or a related field.
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Experience:
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3–5 years managing employability, workforce development, or adult education programmes.
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Proven experience leading teams and collaborating with cross-sector stakeholders.
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Skills:
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Strong understanding of labour market trends and barriers to employment.
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Ability to design inclusive, participant-centric programmes.
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Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, CRM systems) and project management software.
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Exceptional communication skills for engaging diverse audiences.
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Certifications: Certifications in programme management (e.g., PgMP), career coaching, or adult education are advantageous.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Trustee (Non‑Executive Board Member) – Mitie Foundation
Location: UK (meetings in person at The Shard, London)
Time commitment: Approximately 4 Board meetings per year plus occasional sub‑committee/ambassadorial commitments; preparation required for papers and strategic discussion
Term: Three years, renewable once (subject to Board agreement)
Start date: April 2026
The Mitie Foundation is looking for passionate and purpose‑driven Trustees to join its Board. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who want to use their professional expertise to make a meaningful social impact and help people across the UK access brighter, more sustainable futures.
As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in guiding the Foundation’ as they enter new strategic phase, supporting inclusive employment programmes, and ensuring the charity delivers real, measurable change. You’ll collaborate with a committed Board, engage with senior leaders across Mitie, and contribute to initiatives that help people build confidence, develop skills and move into meaningful work.
Whether your background is in business, charity leadership, social value, finance, HR, community engagement or lived experience of overcoming employment barriers — your insights could influence national‑level social impact.
This is a rewarding, purpose‑led role where your contribution truly matters — helping to shape programmes, strengthen governance, and open doors for individuals who need it most.
About the Mitie Foundation
The Mitie Foundation is the independent charitable arm associated with Mitie Group which was established in 2013 to create meaningful, sustainable opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.
The Foundation delivers programmes that improve employability, inclusion and opportunity for people facing barriers to work, collaborating with partners, communities and colleagues to create measurable social value.
Help shape a charity that unlocks potential, removes employment barriers, and creates life‑changing opportunities.
Purpose of the role
Trustees work collectively to ensure the Mitie Foundation is well governed, financially sound, and achieving its charitable purposes. The Board provides strategic direction, oversight and constructive challenge so the Foundation delivers meaningful social impact while operating with integrity and independence.
We are seeking Trustee’s within the following key areas to support and form the Mitie Foundation Board;
- Finance & Risk Trustee – bringing specialist financial governance expertise, oversight of risk management, and assurance in line with Charity Commission expectations.
- Trustee with Lived Experience – ensuring the views, needs, and realities of the communities we serve are represented at Trustee Board level. Anticipated to Chair a lived experience working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance.
- Campaigns & Events Trustee – providing expertise in public engagement, fundraising, and brand-led campaigns to support the Foundation’s growth and visibility. Anticipated to Chair a campaigns and engagement working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance.
- Inclusive Hiring Trustee – contributing specialist knowledge in fair-chance recruitment and employment pathways, supporting the Foundation’s commitment to inclusive hiring and social mobility. Anticipated to Chair a referral partner working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy & governance: Shape and review the Foundation’s vision, mission and strategy; ensure alignment with charitable objects and Charity Commission guidance, uphold high standards of transparency and accountability.
- Oversight & assurance: Monitor performance against strategic priorities, outcomes and impact measures; approve budgets, management accounts and the statutory report and accounts; oversee risk management and ensure compliance with governing document, law and regulation.
- Executive support & challenge: Provide guidance and robust, respectful challenge to the Head of Foundation and team; maintain a clear distinction between governance and operations; participate in leadership appraisal/objective‑setting where appropriate.
- Representation & advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the Foundation within Mitie Group and externally; use professional networks to build partnerships and unlock opportunities for collaboration, funding or volunteering; protect and promote the Foundation’s independence and reputation.
- Conduct & integrity: Promote equality, diversity and inclusion across governance and programmes; uphold the Seven Nolan Principles of Public Life—selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Person specification
The Board seeks a balanced mix of skills and backgrounds; individual trustees will bring some (not all) of the following:
- Strategic or senior leadership experience in business, charity or public sector
- Charity governance and/or financial oversight
- Expertise in one or more of: HR, social value, finance, legal, ESG, communications, or programme delivery
- Ability to analyse complex information and contribute to sound, evidence‑based decisions
- Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to collaborative, inclusive Board culture
- A demonstrable passion for social impact, employability and inclusion aligned to our mission
Eligibility, standards and conflicts
- Candidates must be eligible to serve as a charity trustee under the Charities Act and willing to declare/ manage conflicts of interest, particularly given the Foundation’s corporate linkage.
- Appointment is subject to reference and other checks as appropriate to the role and the Foundation’s policies.
- Trustees are expected to prepare for meetings, attend regularly and contribute actively to collective decision‑making.
Remuneration and expenses
This is a non‑executive, pro‑bono trustee role. Reasonable expenses incurred in the course of duties will be reimbursed in line with policy.
How to apply
Please send your CV and a brief supporting statement (max two pages) outlining your motivation and how your experience aligns with the role Friday 7th February.
If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Rebecca Gray.
We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Adjustments for the recruitment process will be provided on request.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Become the Volunteer Who Helps Launch a Movement
Join Unlock YOUR Potential and help build a charity that breaks barriers and transforms futures
At Unlock YOUR Potential, we believe that an accident of birth should never define a person’s destiny. Talent is everywhere — opportunity is not. We exist to change that.
We’re building a new social‑mobility charity dedicated to empowering adults from low‑income backgrounds and communities facing the highest levels of deprivation. Through holistic employability, wellbeing and mentoring programmes, we’re here to break cycles, open doors, and unlock the potential that has always been there.
We’re focusing our work in areas ranked among the top 10% most deprived in the UK for employment and skills. The need is urgent. The barriers are real. But the opportunity for impact is extraordinary.
And this is where you come in......
Volunteer Project Manager (Short‑Term, High‑Impact Role)
Help us build a charity from the ground up
We’re looking for a proactive, organised and mission‑driven Volunteer Project Manager to help us set up and launch our new charity. This is a rare chance to be the first operational volunteer joining the Founder and a small team of designers at the earliest, most exciting stage of our journey.
This is not just a role — it’s a chance to shape the foundations of an organisation that will support thousands of adults across the UK.
You will work directly with the Founder to:
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Build clear project plans, timelines and action lists for our launch
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Create simple, effective early systems, workflows and operational processes
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Track progress, identify risks and keep the Founder focused on what matters most
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Coordinate tasks across design, operations, service development and early marketing
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Support the recruitment of our wider volunteer team
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Influence the structure, strategy and foundations of a brand‑new social‑mobility charity
Your work will directly determine how quickly we can begin delivering life‑changing support to adults who face the highest barriers to employment and skills.
Who we’re looking for
You’ll thrive in this role if you are:
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Experienced in project management, operations or organisational planning
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Someone who brings structure, clarity and calm to fast‑moving environments
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A builder — someone who enjoys creating order from ambiguity
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Deeply passionate about fairness, opportunity and social mobility
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Able to commit time over the next few weeks or months to help us reach launch
If you choose to stay on after the launch, we’d love that — but this particular project is focused on the start‑up phase.
Why this role matters
This is your chance to be part of something at the moment it begins. You won’t just be managing tasks — you’ll be shaping a charity designed to unlock potential for people who have been overlooked for far too long.
- If you want to use your skills to create real, lasting social impact…
- If you want to help build something meaningful from the ground up…
- If you believe that where someone starts should never limit where they can go…
We’d love to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Trustee Opportunity at Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire is seeking new trustees to help shape the future of our high-performing advice charity.
With offices in Grantham, Spalding and Stamford, plus outreach centres across the region, we support a population of 225,000 people. Last year, we helped 14,000 clients with 60,000 issues and secured over £7 million of additional income for them. We are here for everyone to help people move on with their lives.
As a trustee, you’d join a well-known, respected charity, influence strategy, strengthen governance and contribute to meaningful change. This is an opportunity to share your expertise with other professional, dedicated trustees, gain valuable experience, build on your leadership and strategy skills, and increase your employability. Prior Board experience is not required.
We welcome expertise in digital media, finance, fundraising, HR, IT, law, marketing, PR, risk management, senior management, local government, or strategy.
What do you need to become a trustee?
Trustees don’t need specific qualifications, but we expect all trustees to have six core skills:
● Insight into the organisation: considering CASL’s objects and its public benefit strategically
● Challenging constructively: clarifying facts; stimulating thought
● Analysing issues: being objective; evaluating risks; using evidence; planning ahead
● Weighing up opinions: using evidence; balancing long- and shortterm; prioritising value
● Interpersonal skills: communicating clearly; listening actively; supporting a healthy culture
● Confidence and self-awareness: collaborating with others; treating everyone with respect.
The Board also values specialist skills as assets among its members:
● experience or qualifications in:
‣ business or charity leadership
‣ equity, diversity and inclusion
‣ facilitation
‣ finance and accountancy
‣ human resources
‣ IT, AI or digital media
‣ law or governance
‣ local government
‣ marketing, PR or communications
‣ risk management, or
‣ strategy development
● past experience as a client or service user of this (or a similar) organisation
● a track record of charitable fundraising, or
● being an effective chair.
Finally, competent trustees should have these six personal qualities to some extent, and demonstrate them in their behaviours:
● Committed - motivated, dedicated, persevering; plays an active role.
● Responsible - accountable, independent, reliable; accepts collective responsibility.
● Trustworthy - ethical, principled; is a critical friend and focuses on continuous improvement.
● Collaborative - team-oriented, approachable; builds relationships and seeks consensus.
● Confident - independent; contributes constructively and expresses opinions courageously.
● Thoughtful - curious, adaptable, open-minded; appropriately challenges the status quo
Please see the attached Information Pack for the Trustee Role Description and how to apply.
Also attached is the Trustee Application Pack and Trustee Recruitment Advert
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Position Overview:
The Programme Specialist is critical in supporting the delivery of a high-impact employability and skills development programme. Working under the guidance of the Programme Lead, this position focuses on coordinating projects, managing participant engagement, and ensuring the smooth execution of training initiatives, mentorship activities, and job placement efforts. The Programme Specialist directly empowers individuals to achieve workforce readiness and sustainable employment.
Key Responsibilities:
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Project Coordination:
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Assist in managing day-to-day activities of the programme, including onboarding, skills assessments, and skills development of participants.
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Track progress against programme milestones (e.g., participant enrollment and completion rates) and flag delays to the Programme Lead.
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Participant Support:
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Serve as a primary point of contact for participants, addressing inquiries and providing guidance on programme resources, training modules, and job search tools.
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Maintain accurate participant records, including attendance, skill assessments, and post-program outcomes.
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Stakeholder Engagement:
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Support the Programme Lead in building relationships with internal stakeholders.
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Data Management & Reporting:
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Collect and analyse data on participant progress, employment outcomes, and programme effectiveness using CRM systems or databases.
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Prepare regular reports for the Programme Lead to inform decision-making and demonstrate impact to funders/stakeholders.
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Logistics & Compliance:
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Manage programme materials, including training resources, digital platforms, and participant handbooks.
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Ensure compliance with programme guidelines, confidentiality policies, and grant reporting requirements.
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Continuous Improvement:
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Gather feedback from participants and partners to identify opportunities to enhance programme delivery.
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Support the implementation of new tools or processes to improve efficiency and participant satisfaction.
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Required Qualifications:
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Education, Human Resources, or a related field.
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Experience:
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1–3 years in programme coordination, workforce development, adult education, or a similar role.
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Experience working with diverse populations, including youth, underserved communities, or career changers.
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Skills:
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Strong organisational and multitasking abilities, with attention to detail.
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Proficiency in Google products (Forms, Sheets, Docs, Slides) and familiarity with CRM tools.
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for engaging participants and stakeholders.
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Basic data analysis and reporting capabilities.
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The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Position Overview:
The Programme Coordinator provides critical administrative and logistical support to ensure the smooth operation of the employability and skills development programme. As the first point of contact for participants, this role focuses on managing inquiries, maintaining records, coordinating schedules, and facilitating seamless communication between participants, trainers, and stakeholders. The Programme Coordinator plays a vital role in ensuring participants feel supported and programme activities are delivered efficiently.
Key Responsibilities:
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Participant Engagement & Support:
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Serve as the primary contact for participants, responding to inquiries via phone, email, or in person, and providing guidance on programme logistics, enrollment, and resources.
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Manage participant registration, onboarding, and attendance tracking for workshops, training sessions, and events.
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Administrative Coordination:
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Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant records, including personal details, progress updates, and post-programme employment outcomes, ensuring compliance with data protection policies.
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Schedule and coordinate meetings, training sessions, and stakeholder events, including room bookings, material preparation, and calendar management.
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Documentation & Reporting:
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Prepare and distribute programme-related materials, such as handbooks, training agendas, and certificates of completion.
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Assist in compiling data for reports on participant engagement, attendance, and feedback to support programme evaluation.
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Logistics & Communication:
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Manage programme logistics, including training materials, technology setups, and participant resources.
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Draft and send routine communications (e.g., reminders, updates) to participants, trainers, and partners.
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Compliance & Record-Keeping:
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Ensure all participant files and programme documentation adhere to organisational policies and grant requirements.
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Support audit processes by maintaining organised participant consent forms, evaluations, and feedback records.
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Required Qualifications:
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Education: A high school diploma is required; an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in administration, communications, social sciences, or a related field is preferred.
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Experience:
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1–2 years in administrative support, customer service, or programme coordination, preferably in education, non-profits, or workforce development.
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Experience managing high-volume inquiries and maintaining detailed records.
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Skills:
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Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks in a fast-paced environment.
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Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a customer-service-oriented approach.
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Proficiency in Google products (Forms, Docs, Sheets, Slides) and familiarity with databases or CRM systems.
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Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in data entry and reporting.
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The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Youth engagement is a core part of our how we function. We have a network of paid Young Associates as well as 2 Young Trustees (under 25 years old). We are now looking to strengthen our Governance with the appointment of another Young Trustee, ideally someone with relevant lived experience and/or has participated in Youth Careers Collective programmes.
Essential criteria
- A commitment to realising Youth Careers Collective’s mission
- Experience of effective, fair and impartial decision-making
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the duties of effective Trusteeship
Desirable criteria
- Experience of operating at Board or Committee level, either executive or non-executive
- Experience of strategic development and implementation
- Some experience, knowledge and understanding of the charity sector
- Some experience, knowledge and understanding of state schools and colleges
- Experience of income generation, policy, marketing and communication, or digital
We do not expect applicants to have all the above experience, and welcome first-time Trustees and will provide training and support on the role. We also welcome candidates with links to our priority area of west London, those from ethnic minority and black backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve, and from candidates with disabilities.
For more information please read the full recruitment pack.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Working Chance is a unique, pioneering, award-winning national charity that supports women with criminal convictions into employment. We support women to create independent purposeful lives through helping them to build careers, we break cycles of reoffending and we inspire employers to embrace inclusive hiring.
This is an exciting time for Working Chance as we start developing our new three-year strategy which will come into effect from 1 September. The new strategy will see us taking an ever bolder stance on speaking up for women with convictions, solidifying our position as a thought leader on how to improve the employment rate of these women, and moving into providing consultancy for employers seeking our guidance and input on their recruitment and employment practices.
We are looking for an inspiring and committed Chair of Trustees to lead our Board at this exciting point in our development. This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of a highly respected and impactful charity, while championing a mission that addresses inequality, social justice and economic inclusion.
As Chair, you will work closely with the Chief Executive and fellow trustees to ensure strong governance, clear strategic focus, effective oversight and financial sustainability, while acting as an ambassador for Working Chance and its values. Download the Appointment Brief to learn all about the role, the charity and the recruitment process, and if you think you might be the person we’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you.
Closing date: 9am on Monday 16 March
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking an inspiring and strategic individual to lead our Board of Trustees as Chair. This is an exciting opportunity to join an organisation committed to ensure the voices of long term prisoners are heard, and to enable them to realise their potential.
The Chair is responsible for leading the Board of Trustees, ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation. The Chair’s role is also to work in partnership with the CEO, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation and to optimise the relationship between the Board and staff. (See also the Charity Commission’s Essential Trustee Guidance)
Key responsibilities
Strategy, Governance, and Financial Management
- Lead the Board in providing strategic direction to the Hardman Trust.
- Ensure, with Trustees, that the organisation operates efficiently and effectively to fulfil its objectives in compliance with relevant charitable and company legislation.
- Maintain careful oversight of any risk to reputation and/or financial standing of the charity and ensure that the Board regularly monitors that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and manage and mitigate the risks.
- Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.
Board Leadership
- Ensure a high performing and effective Board through review of Board structure, Trustees and Board performance.
- Enhance the overall contribution of the Board, through mentoring of other Board members and encouraging participation in training/coaching/development.
- Review and ensure Trustees have the right skillsets, training and development to support effective governance of the organisation.
- Chair Board meetings inclusively, bringing impartiality and objectivity in the decision making process.
Support to Hardman Trust CEO
- Line manage The Hardman Trust CEO including annual performance reviews and regular check-ins.
- Maintain appropriate distance between the Board and the leadership team, but where necessary, provide support and guidance on operations.
- Work with The Hardman Trust CEO to support them to achieve the aims of the charity.
General Chair responsibilities
- Where appropriate, represent the Hardman Trust at meetings and events and act as spokesperson.
- Lead the Board in fostering relationships with external partners and potential funders/donors.
Person Specification
We want our Board to look like the world we serve and to have different voices within it. We know that diverse groups of people make better decisions. We are keen to hear from people who can bring perspectives or experiences often underrepresented in charity governance and how can help us progress our vision.
Essential
- Commitment to the Hardman Trust’s aims and values.
- Prior experience as a charity trustee and solid understanding of good governance practices.
- Experience (voluntary or paid) within the criminal or social justice sector at leadership level.
- Experience of chairing meetings, committees or boards.
- Robust planning and organisational skills.
- Willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities.
- Sound independent judgment and strategic vision; ability to think creatively and challenge constructively.
- A collegiate attitude and willingness to work with others.
- Honesty, integrity and commitment to act in the best interest of the charity at all times.
Desirable
- Previous experience as a Chair in the charity sector.
- Expertise of lived experience of the justice system.
- Experience of charity fundraising and/or grant making.
- Understanding of the needs of people serving long sentences and of the systemic issues within our justice system .
- Experience of building partnerships and networks.
- Experience of public speaking and willing to represent the Hardman Trust externally.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting The Girls’ Network in the search to appoint their next Chair and two Trustees.
About The Girls’ Network
At The Girls’ Network, we believe that no girl should have her future limited by her gender, ethnicity, background or parental income.
Young people from lower-income families are significantly less likely to go on to higher education than their wealthier peers, which can have a lifelong impact on opportunity and earning potential. Recent years have also seen inequalities deepen and young people’s wellbeing adversely affected, particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic. These structural and social barriers disproportionately affect girls and young women from communities of least advantage.
We exist to challenge this inequality. Our mission is to inspire and empower girls and young women from underrepresented backgrounds to realise their ambitions, discover their self-worth, and develop the confidence and capacity to shape their own futures.
We work in communities of least advantage across England to deliver programmes that provide long-term, meaningful support.
About the Opportunities
The Girls’ Network is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead and support The Girls’ Network through their exciting next phase of growth, supporting an exceptional, values-driven team and ensuring they remain ambitious, accountable and true to their founding mission.
We are particularly interested to hear from candidates with:
- Experience of strategic leadership and governance within a complex organisation.
- Experience or understanding of the education / schools landscape.
- Good understanding of voluntary sector governance, funding and finance management.
- Thorough understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
- Demonstrable financial and commercial acumen, including experience in financial planning, oversight, risk management, and the establishment and monitoring of systems of control and accountability.
- A track record of driving innovation and organisational change, with the ability to apply insight to support the charity’s achievement of its strategic objectives.
- Experience of working across sectoral boundaries, leveraging partnerships and opportunities.
The Girls’ Networks is also seeking two talented and committed Trustees to join their Board. We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Fundraising
- IT and digital
We are also seeking Trustees from the North East, Merseyside, West Midlands who can bring their lived experience to add value to the Board. We also encourage applications from young Trustees and will support first-time Trustees to bring their valuable perspectives to the Board.