Work experience development officer jobs in winsford, cheshire west and chester

Marketing & Communications Manager

May 2025

1 Job Details:

Reports to: Director of Finance & Operations

Hours: 28 - 35 hours per week (negotiable)

Location: Home based (with occasional travel)

Salary: c £37,000 (with an excellent benefits package including life insurance and private healthcare)

Start Date Immediate

2. About us:

The UK Cyber Security Council works to bring together stakeholders to build and drive engagement in the cyber security profession, through developing standards and ethical practice, demystifying career routes into the profession and promoting the profession.

In collaboration with multiple UK Government departments and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), our approach is to co-ordinate existing programmes and shape new initiatives, in support of the ambition to make the UK the safest place to live and work online.

We are also a membership organisation, with corporate members, who share our interest in promoting, supporting and developing the cyber security profession.

3. The role:

If you’re successful, you will have a unique opportunity to join a growing organisation at an important phase of its development. This exciting strategic and operational role will enable you to lead on the dynamic marketing and communication approach of an organisation with a very important mission which engages with a myriad of important stakeholders  

4. Main Duties and Responsibilities 

· To lead the delivery of the organisations marketing and communications (marcomms) strategy plan.

· To lead the development of strategic marketing and communication plans across all programmes, products and services.

· To ensure that marketing and communications across the organisation reflect and align with the UK Cyber Security Councils brand, vision, mission and values.

· To oversee and deal with brand governance issues and to drive, manage and implement marketing solutions and promotions that support agreed brand awareness targets.

· To manage our digital and social media channels and to ensure that all programmes and services are promoted effectively through these channels.

· To write high quality content, briefs, press releases and social media posts as part of our marcomms requirements.

· Working with the leadership team to develop a plan and process for internal communications across the Council.

· To lead on collaboration with licenced bodies and partners on joint marcomms and promotions

· To maintain an awareness of the Council’s strategy and wider cyber security landscape and propose content that will speak to key audiences.

· To update the website content on a regular basis as the window to the organisation.

· To work with internal and external colleagues to agree marketing and communications strategies for each programme and support the delivery of e-marketing and social media campaigns.

· To lead on the delivery of consistent, branded marketing collateral – print and digital in support of identified brand awareness targets.

· To lead on promoting our events management activities working closely with internal and external colleagues.

· To develop and evaluate customer research, market conditions and competitor data to ensure that annual marcomms plans remain refreshed and up to date.

· To work with senior managers to develop annual engagement targets based on

increased engagement and influence.

· To measure and report performance of all marketing activity, assessing against

targets, together with other relevant metrics and analytics.

· To prepare progress reports as required for the Chief Executive and/or Board of Trustees.

· To ensure effective data management concerning members and supporters to ensure that GDPR compliance is maintained at all times.

· To represent the Council in a professional manner and to act at all times in a manner which will not damage its reputation.

· To undertake other tasks from time to time as required by the Leadership Team.

This job description is intended as a general guide to the scope of the post and may change in line with the needs of the service or at the request of the line manager.

5. Person Specification:

5.1 Essential Criteria:

· Experience and willingness to be hands on in content development and production including graphic design of marketing collateral

· Experienced in copy writing, proof reading and editing content

· Experience of content management systems (CMS) 

· Experience of working with creative agencies and PR companies

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills

· Experience of using customer relationship management systems (CRM)  

· Excellent project management skills

· Attention to detail and driven by high quality outputs

· Ability to work autonomously, work under spikes of pressure and meet deadlines

· Ability to think outside the box, dynamic and innovative

· Experience of managing the social media area including content and campaigns

· A track record of successful programme and organisational marketing

5.2 Desirable:

· A degree in marketing or communications or equivalent

· An understanding of the Cyber Security Profession

· Experience of managing staff, volunteers or interns

·  Experience of creating high impact comms design  

· Experience of commissioning content from external authors 

· Experience working in a professional body context, and/or with committees and volunteers

6. Diversity

We actively encourage applications from a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions as we are committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills, experiences and abilities people.

We actively support diversity and inclusion and ensure that all our employees are valued and treated with dignity and respect as we want to encourage everyone in our business to reach their potential.

At the Alliance for a Cavity-Free Future (ACFF) we are dedicated to helping the billions of people worldwide suffering from untreated caries. This suffering disproportionately affects people from disadvantaged population groups and costs the global economy an estimated $245 billion USD.

We work for better oral health for all through a number of interconnected programmes including advocating at global conferences and meetings, local groundwork throughout 28 volunteer Chapters, designing and recommending better oral health policies for national governments through our Policy Labs and more.

We are looking for a freelance Director of Operations and Finance to work for an average of 4 days a week for a total of 180 days a year. They will be part of the senior leadership team alongside the Chief Strategy and Advocacy Officer and the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

● Deliver our Operations and Finance KPIs as outlined in the Charity’s strategy; as well as being jointly responsible for the successful implementation of the full strategy.

● Lead and shape the Operations department, making sure it’s fit for purpose and maximising resources.

● Work collaboratively with senior management to maximise the success of the charity.

● Work closely and liaise regularly with the Chief Strategy & Advocacy Officer

● Work closely with the Chair of Trustees to ensure sound charity governance and compliance with HMRC and OSCR regulations.

● Ensure sound risk management strategies are in place.

● Manage the finance and operations input to grant bids and negotiation meetings.

● Liaise with external solicitors for advice to the Board.

● Project and logistics management, e.g for events and meetings

Finance

● Set and manage the charity’s annual budgets, supporting senior management in the process

● Report regularly on the charity’s finances, tracking the charity’s income, expenditure and reserves, and liaising with the Board of Trustees.

● Oversee the Charity’s bookkeeping and payroll; input journals as needed and closely monitor cashflow.

● Manage the end of year accounts and audit process, liaising with the external accountants.

Operations, IT and Data

● Manage the office and future office needs

● Manage the technology and data strategy, keeping staff tech secure and up to date, and acting as key liaison with third parties

● Be responsible for upholding our data privacy obligations. Work in partnership with senior management and charity lawyers to ensure GDPR obligations are followed, data security and use of data for internal and external reporting

● Oversee the efficient usage of our database, systems and key platforms (including Xero, Wordpress, Microsoft Office Suite) ensuring we are collecting and analysing relevant data in line with our goals to grow income and impact, ensuring proportionate resourcing and training

● Leadership of ad hoc Operations as required.

People Management

● If needed, oversee the recruitment of new staff, coordinating the process managing the staff journey including inductions, staff surveys, annual reviews, and exits.

● Oversee the communication with and distribution of work with freelancer and contractor staff.

● Maintain our policies and staff handbook, researching and writing/updating policies as required.

About you

Essential Criteria

● Must have a comprehensive knowledge of relevant systems, processes, policies, and procedures involved in the effective management of not-for-profit organisations.

● Demonstrable experience of financial management including, but not limited to, budget creation and reprofiling, forecasting, financial strategy, payments and invoicing, reconciling cashbook and bank accounts, VAT submission, and working with accountants on annual accounts.

● Requires possession of, or ability to quickly acquire specialist or professional knowledge of dental caries, and engagement in appropriate professional activities to keep knowledge base and skills up to date and develop them further.

● Ability to communicate effectively with a global stakeholder base.

● Ability to influence the strategic direction of the organisation and collaborating on the development and implementation of global impact strategy.

● Able to decide own pattern of work, manage own workload and resources.

● Requires the ability to use own judgement, creativity and initiative to resolve complex problems (for which an immediate solution might not be clear).

● Able to take both collaborative and independent decisions that have implications on their own work and that of others and have global, complex and long-lasting impact.

● Ability to advise others on recommended actions, including the creation of guidance documents and training procedures as well as introduction of new policies.

● Able to act independently in order to adapt the service offered based on research and investigation of the needs and requirements of stakeholders

Desirable Criteria

● Have an understanding of international development and sensitivity for ensuring appropriate and effective relationships are built across cultural and geographic barriers.

● Experience running communications campaigns using social media.

● Experience with Xero finance management software.

● Experience with Microsoft 365, especially Excel, PowerPoint and Word.

Applications

Please apply by submitting a CV (no more than two A4 pages) and Supporting Statement (no more than two A4 pages) addressing your suitability against the Essential and Desirable Criteria.

Why Access Social Care Exists 

Every day millions of older and disabled people are denied the social care they need. Most local authorities can’t meet the growing demand for care, and none are confident they can meet their legal duties in the future. This affects all of us - we will all need social care at some point in our lives. 

We all have a right to hold public bodies to account, but most of us cannot afford lawyers so rely on legal aid. The 92% drop in legal aid cases since 2010 means that we have nowhere to turn. Without access to justice, our rights do not exist. The rule of law is broken. 

What we do 

Access Social Care provides free legal advice and information for people with social care needs, helping achieve a better quality of life. We work with communities to increase knowledge of the law and our rights. We highlight the gap left by cuts to Legal Aid and provide advice for those who can’t afford it. 

With a 98% success rate, our network of lawyers provide access to justice when things go wrong. We collaborate with social services whilst ensuring legal obligations are met. We are working towards a future where social care is adequately funded and we all get the support we need. 

We provide rights awareness training to front line managers, and legal advice and support to families and individuals. As well as providing access to justice, our aim is to drive system level change through evidence-led influencing and strategic casework.

This is an exciting time to join ASC. We have a new strategy and are growing quickly including across our senior leadership team. We have more than doubled in size and income since we started operating in April 2020 and we anticipate that this strong growth will continue for the duration of our next strategic period. We are dedicated to the people who need our help, but we also care deeply about our team and we think that work should be an exciting and satisfying place to be.

About the role 

This role is pivotal to the growth and success of the charity. Its purpose is to support the Director of Partners and Engagement and fundraising team, and Head of Business Development, to lead the charity’s income generation. This includes activities in sourcing small, medium, and major (up to six figures) grant opportunities from trusts, foundations, and institutional/government funders, and individual donors where appropriate. Where opportunity presents, the role holder may also support the business development function. This could involve assisting in the development and implementation of new business growth opportunities  to boost income generation. The role will involve project and core-cost fundraising.

Responsibilities

· Work with the Director of Partners and Engagement and the fundraising team to maintain existing funds; research new income streams and prepare and submit business cases; and source new funding opportunities for Access Social Care’s projects and core-cost needs.

· Participate in planning and strategy meetings. Work with the Finance Director and other leaders to develop and implement annual fundraising/income generation plans, gift tables, and budgets to achieve income targets.

· Monitor income targets and provide regular progress reports and updates on performance against target.

· Create and implement cultivation plans for high-value donors. Build and maintain long-term relationships with trusts and foundations, individual donors, and other income-generation partnerships through meetings and the production of detailed reports and presentations to generate repeat donations and renew income streams.

· Lead on funding bid applications and reports including working with senior colleagues across the organisation to draft warm and cold acquisition, and bespoke written applications.

· Build, monitor and manage a pipeline of prospective Trust & Foundation and Funder opportunities.

· Keep comprehensive records of all fundraising and business development activities.

· Maintain excellent relationships with internal stakeholders ensuring an up-to-date knowledge of current activities of Access Social Care’s work and brand. Secure case studies to showcase the charity’s work.

· Represent the organisation at public events as required.

· Perform other duties as may be required by the Director of Partners and Engagement, Head of Business Development, and/or other senior leaders which you could be reasonably expected to perform in line with this job description. 

· Where appropriate and as opportunity arises, support the Head of Business Development with potential new business opportunities. This could include tasks such as: drafting proposals, seeking new opportunities as instructed, sustaining connections and supporting plans to enter strategic partnerships.

This list of tasks is not exhaustive and will be reviewed from time to time in discussion with the post holder.

Person Specification

All staff at ASC are expected to share and demonstrate our values:

Trustworthy

Recognised for excellence, we will be the best we can be in everything we do.  We will be truthful, independent and outcomes focussed.

Fair

We believe in treating people with kindness and compassion in a way that is right, reasonable and just.

Fearless

We will do what is right, not what is easy.  We will bravely challenge injustice.

Inclusive

Our beneficiaries’ voices will influence our thinking and decision making at all levels of our organisation. Collaborative in our thinking, we will work with others to achieve our goals.

Positive

We will be constructive and progressive in our challenge.  We will optimistically and dynamically drive for change.

In addition to our values, you will also need to be able to demonstrate or tell us about the following areas at your interview:

Person Specification

All staff at ASC are expected to share and demonstrate our values. In addition to our values, you will also need to be able to demonstrate or tell us about the following areas at your interview: 

Personal Attributes:

• Purpose driven with a commitment to our mission and values
• Commitment to working within the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion. Commitment to and interest in disability rights. 
• Self motivated, interest in developing knowledge and understanding trends in charitable trusts and foundations fundraising and business development
• Willingness to adapt and ability to work in an agile way to meet the income generation needs of the organisation 

Experience

• Experience in similar Income Generation role, with a proven track-record of success 
• Experience of working independently to develop and implement income generation strategies with a proven track record of securing five-figure gifts and delivering against targets
• Proven experience in managing and nurturing relationships with trust and foundation funders 

Skills

• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills. Ability to draft and present information including briefings, applications, and project reports to a range of audiences in a clear and confident manner 
• Strong networking skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships both internally and externally to identify and leverage funding opportunities
• Organised and able to plan and prioritise to meet multiple deadlines 
• IT literate with strong online research skills to identify new funding opportunities, and experienced in using MS Word and MS Excel to manage and present information effectively
• High level of numeracy 

Desirable

• Understanding of health and social care issues and/or the law 

How to apply
 

We hope that having read this far, you will want to apply!

Please ensure that your CV and supporting statement do not include your name – use initials only. This will ensure that we avoid unconscious bias in our shortlisting process. To apply, please provide the following documents:

• An up-to-date CV
• A completed diversity monitoring form
• A supporting statement of no more than two pages, addressing:
  • The essential requirements of the person specification

Please ensure you have the right to work in the UK before expressing your interest in this role. We are sorry that we cannot consider applications from candidates who do not have the right to work in the UK.

We only reach out to candidates who have been shortlisted. If you do not receive communication from us within two weeks following the application deadline, please consider that we will not be moving forward with your application. 

Timeline for recruitment process

Closing date: 4th June 2025

A selection exercise will need to be completed by the 17th June 2025

Interviews will take place on the 26th & 27th June 2025

Please ensure you keep these dates free.

At Access Social care, we aren’t interested in tokenism. We know that if we are to make the biggest difference for the people that need us the most, we need to get Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and anti-racism right. Part of this is recruiting greater diversity in all our teams. 

With this in mind, we particularly welcome applications from candidates with experience of the communities we serve, including people with direct experience of the social care system, and from marginalised groups, particularly Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, older and disabled people, and trans and non-binary people.

Your focus will be to secure both major gifts from new donors and build on the commitment of long-standing supporters to further their partnership in MAF’s work and mission.This is a fantastic opportunity to join a friendly and high performing team and make a significant contribution to our global mission.  There is an occupational requirement for the job holder of these positions to be a committed Christian. Additional information is available on request.

Responsibilities

In this role you will have 6 key responsibilities:

Financial: Managing a portfolio of high-value relationships and to deliver income at the agreed annual target in the first year with an expectation this will rise year on year.

Management:  You will be one of the first points of contact internally for trusts/foundations and individual major donors (IMD) related queries and will work in accordance with the major giving team strategic plan and existing procedures, practices and standards.

Relationship:You will seek to actively develop and manage excellent relationships with an agreed portfolio of trusts/foundations and IMD capable of donating a minimum of £25,000 or more as a single gift each year. In addition you will need to:

• Develop and implement professionally written action plans which will engage, inform and nurture prospects and donors to deliver gifts at the agreed level.
• Undertake timely administration to capture and record knowledge of supporters within the customer relationship management database. Work with the organisation’s systems team to utilise this information to enhance applications and giving levels
• Pro-actively develop relationships with key stakeholders within the MAF organisation(s)
• Present MAF proposals alone or with others, (member of the operational field team, CEO etc), to prospects and donors.
• Participate in events to develop relationships with donors, inviting individuals from portfolios where appropriate and co-ordinate visits to MAF overseas operations where appropriate to introduce these donors directly to the work of MAF.  

Information: Information management and analytical thinking is essential as you will present detailed, accurate and high-quality fundraising proposals to prospects and donors, ensuring any specific deadlines or funding windows are complied with.   In addition you will need to:

• Ensure that donors are thanked appropriately for their gifts with timely and appropriate reports, letters and phone call.
• Provide timely ‘report backs’ that are appropriate/agreed with each donor, to evidence effective use of funding and to encourage the opportunity to make further applications based on good stewardship and achievement of agreed outcomes.
• Maintain a thorough knowledge, and the funding priority, of projects available for funding by trusts/foundations supporters and prospects.
• Actively seeking to grow the trusts/foundations portfolio and income through the use of research
• Attending regular appropriate training courses, external forums and networks to ensure continuous personal development 

Major Donor team (practice/ procedures/training):As a key member of the team you will need to ensure procedures and standards are developed/maintained to ensure we are effective and compliant with any legislation/regulation.

CRM Database: To provide support to the Partnership Executive, who will be the team’s CRM database lead and maintain a thorough working understanding of MAF UK’s CRM system in order to answer specific team queries.  You will need to support the teams day-to-day CRM activities including producing reports, importing data, adding activities, amending details and any other relevant tasks

In line with all staff in MAF UK you will be required to:

1. Be a role model of organisational values and beliefs - contributing to the shared spiritual life of the MAF UK team as a unique Christian charity. This will include attendance and participation in corporate times of biblical reflection and corporate prayer meetings
2. Participate in appropriate matrix programme and project teams, contributing skills and expertise to required timescales from the appropriate programme leader
3. Keep your line manager informed of all relevant and timely information
4. At all times comply with statutory requirements for handling personal and sensitive data in a confidential manner
5. To abide by Safeguarding and Conduct Policies, and all other MAF UK policies provided on the Intranet

 Christian values, beliefs and ethos of MAF UK:

As a Christian mission, MAF UK is seeking those who share in the Christian values and beliefs of the organisation, as described in the mission, purpose, values and beliefs statements. All staff will be required to support and actively demonstrate the Christian values of the organisation and to take part in organisation activities such as staff meetings, prayer meetings, away days, where the values and beliefs of the organisation will be obvious.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

Essential Requirements

• Educated to degree level
• Experience of working with donors or in a relationship management environment
• Experience of utilising knowledge of audiences to develop donor involvement
• Your personal skills and attributes will need to include
  • Excellent writing skills with the ability to successfully present project proposals to trusts and foundations
  • Proficient skills in Microsoft applications
  • Able to communicate positively, persuasively, and sensitively across functions and organisations
  • Building strong partnerships across the organisation and maintaining a positive and friendly approach even under pressure
  • The ability to positively influence non-direct reports in order to obtain information, or drive activity
  • High levels of efficiency and quality – Excellent attention to detail
  • Financially literate and able to interpret business plans
  • Able to manage multiple deadlines and priorities
  • Committed and mature Christian, able to demonstrate understanding and acceptance of the Statement of Faith and willing to proactively take part in MAF events and meetings e.g. prayer meetings, away days etc. Able to describe these beliefs and values to others so as to represent MAF as a Christian mission organisation
  • Emotional resourcefulness
  • Flexibility towards others and circumstances
  • Service orientation

Highly Desriable requirements

• Major donor/trusts & foundations or other transferable fundraising training

• Experience of working in a Christian organisation or charity/fundraising environment

• Successful work experience within a fundraising environment

  Benefits:

• Salary:   £42,000 per annum depending upon experience 
• Hours: This role is full time, 36 hours per week
• Pension: MAF UK provides a non-contributory pension scheme for staff of 10% salary on joining
• Annual leave entitlement: 22 days per year plus 8 statutory paid public holidays per year (including those falling at Christmas and New Year).

Location: This role can be based at the MAF UK Offices in Scotland, Glasgow,  or optionally could be in the Oxford, Cambridge arc as we are launching a new hub in the Milton Keynes area, maximising our engagement with a thriving local aerospace and charity sector region.  Up to two days a week in our Folkstone Office might be initially required.We welcome hybrid working in line with our flexible working policy, the needs of the business, the requirements of the role and your location. This will be discussed at interview.

Closing date:  22nd June 2025

Interview date:  July 2025

The eoa exists to grow and strengthen employee ownership as a force for powering fairer livelihoods, stronger businesses, and a more resilient economy. With 800+ member businesses and a community of thousands of employee owners, we are the national voice for employee ownership in the UK.

Our refreshed strategy is focused on accelerating impact through people powered growth. We’re here to make employee ownership a mainstream business model choice—by expanding the sector, setting the standard for excellence, and building a connected, values-led ecosystem. We do this through sharp insight, high-impact advocacy, and a thriving member experience.

For founders and business owners exploring employee ownership, or for leaders and managers building Great EO businesses, the eoa offers tools, knowledge, experience and connection. We facilitate powerful peer learning, codify what works, and champion the stories that inspire others to choose EO.

Together with our members, we’re creating the conditions for employee ownership to thrive—seizing the political, cultural, and digital opportunities ahead. and this is where you come in.

As Director of Partnerships and Growth, you’ll be the driving force behind the eoa’s external influence and reach. you’ll lead our advocacy and external affairs strategy, build meaningful partnerships, and deliver powerful events programmes that accelerate adoption of Great EO. You’ll also shape the narrative—ensuring our insights, policy recommendations and thought leadership land with impact.

This is a high-profile, senior leadership role at a pivotal time for the EO community. It calls for someone with a track record in advocacy or external affairs, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. It also needs a big-picture thinker - someone who can champion EO, influence change, and help us build a more inclusive, resilient economy.

If you’re excited about the opportunity to grow an economy that puts people at the heart of business, we’d love to hear from you.

Role Details

At the heart of this Director of Parnterships & Growth role is the opportunity to shape the external environment for employee ownership, champion the voice of our members, and lead high-impact strategies that grow both our reach and the sector itself.

You’ll lead on policy, advocacy, external affairs and events—crafting compelling narratives, building powerful partnerships, and delivering programmes that drive commercial sustainability and sector-wide change.

From shaping relationships with key stakeholders and securing strategic sponsorships, to overseeing the delivery of thought leadership, content, and events, you’ll ensure that the eoa is not just part of the national conversation—but leading it.

Your ability to influence, convene, and inspire will be critical to removing barriers to employee ownership and unlocking the potential of our £1.7m organisation to deliver even greater impact.

Join us on this exciting journey where your leadership will shape policy, grow influence, and contribute to our mission of unlocking the potential of people, businesses, and the economy through employee ownership.

This role is remote, however regular travel to our HQ in Brough and across the UK is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead external affairs, collaborating with stakeholders to shape policy, advocacy and best practice that removes barriers and expands EO.
• Establish relationships and secure commercial partnerships and sponsorships, generating revenue to support advocacy, events, and sector growth initiatives.
• Engage key stakeholders to co-produce content that positively influence EO practice and policy and amplify the eoa’s voice in public affairs.
• Oversee delivery of an effective content strategy that delivers our commercial objectives and positions the eoa as the leading EO authority.
• Oversee events programmes, ensuring they drive knowledge-sharing, sector development, and commercial sustainability.
• Represent the eoa at industry forums, policy roundtables, and public affairs events, championing the employee ownership model.
• Collaborate with the Director of Membership & Operations to align advocacy efforts with member needs and engagement.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering innovation and delivering measurable impact across advocacy, policy, event activities.

Success in this role

Success in this role means having a positive impact on the growth rate, influence and adoption of great EO across the employee ownership sector. Strengthening and expanding stakeholder relationships, driving advocacy impact and securing commercial sustainability through a diverse mix of sponsorships, partnerships will also be indicators of success.

Key outcomes for the role

• Growth of the employee ownership sector. Measured by increased number of EO businesses, heightened sector awareness
• Strengthened corporate engagement. Measured by growth in strategic partnerships, corporate and government engagement
• Strong Commercial Sustainability. Measured by increased sponsorship revenue, secured long-term commercial partnerships
• Increased policy influence. Measured by policy recommendations adopted, increased government engagement
• Enhanced sector insight and intelligence. Measured by utilisation of high-quality data and insights for regular sector related content outputs.
• Development and adoption of best practice. Measured by creation, adoption and promotion of best practice across the EO network.
• Successful events programmes. Measured by iIncreased participation, sponsorship growth, positive feedback.

About you

• Proven expertise in advocacy, public affairs, or policy leadership, ideally within a business, trade body, or membership association.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience influencing government, media, and corporate partners.
• Demonstrated ability to drive sectoral or policy change, leading successful advocacy initiatives.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in sponsorship acquisition, revenue generation, and developing financially sustainable initiatives.
• Exceptional strategic communication and storytelling skills, able to engage and mobilise diverse audiences.
• Experience in event programme development, ensuring high engagement and sector impact.
• Passion for employee ownership and economic models that promote shared prosperity.
• Innovative, creative, and proactive in problem-solving and strategy execution.
• A confident and transparent leader who fosters collaboration and inclusivity through teamwork.
• Self-aware with emotional intelligence, resilience, and integrity.

Role Summary

• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
• Location: Remote, with regular travel to eoa offices and national events
• Salary & Benefits: £65,000 p/a + 7% Pensions. 30 Days leave + Bank Holidays.
• Reports to: CEO
• Management: TBC

Role Summary:

This is an opportunity for a well-rounded accountant to join the Bild group of charities. The post-holder will be responsible for all management accounts across a group of four charities, whose combined turnover is circa £4m per year.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

• Oversee day-to-day accounting and financial controls
• Prepare monthly management accounts, reports, and financial statements
• Responsible for development of management reporting

• Meeting regularly with budget holders to review financial performance and outstanding commitments.

• Manage payroll, tax returns, and financial reporting for funders

• Support the Business and Finance Director in preparing annual budgets and forecasts.
• Support the Business and Finance Director with the annual audit process

About VODG

The Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG) represents over 130 organisations within the voluntary sector whose work is focused on enabling disabled people of all ages to live the lives they choose. VODG believes that an ambitious, reliable and vibrant voluntary sector that works together is critical to achieving this aim.

VODG’s mission is focused on two key areas – enabling our members to be the best they can and improving the environment in which our members operate.

VODG believes that our membership approach and operations should centre around the views of disabled people and be influenced by professional expertise.

Introduction to the role

The coordinator role is crucial in enhancing the productivity and efficiency of the leadership team within the organisation. Serving as a central point of contact, this position involves a diverse range of responsibilities, from managing executives' calendars and coordinating meetings to handling communications with professionalism and discretion. By implementing improvements to organisational processes and maintaining meticulous record-keeping, the coordinator role contributes significantly to the smooth operation of daily activities of the organisation.

Additionally, the role involves coordinating events, assisting with project administration, and supporting financial reporting, all while embodying the core values of the organisation.

This position not only demands strong organisational skills but also a proactive approach to achieving corporate objectives and fostering a collaborative work environment. 

Purpose of role 

The Operations Coordinator will: 

• Act as a central point of contact, managing executive calendars, coordinating meetings, and facilitating effective communication while maintaining a high level of professionalism and discretion. 

• Be responsible for improving organisational processes, ensuring meticulous record-keeping, and contributing to the seamless execution of daily activities.

• Coordinate events, project administration, and financial reporting, all aligned with the organisation's core values. 

Specific responsibilities and duties 

Administrative Support  

• Assist with a variety of administrative tasks that enhance the productivity of the leadership team, such as scheduling and coordinating meetings, managing executives' calendars with attention to priorities, and organising files and documentation for easy access.

• Identify and implement improvements to existing organisational processes and procedures to boost efficiency, ensuring that the team can operate at maximum effectiveness. 

Communications  

• Act as a central point of contact for both internal team members and external stakeholders, handling communications with a professional demeanor.

Meetings  

• Collaborate closely with the Business and Operations Manager to support the overall management of meetings, including preparing detailed agendas, taking comprehensive minutes during meetings, and circulating documents to all participants in a timely manner, ensuring that all follow-up actions are clearly outlined. 

Event Coordination 

• Coordinate a variety of events and meetings, supporting logistics such as venue selection, catering orders, accessability requirements and technical arrangements.

• Assist in the planning and scheduling of member events and meetings, ensuring all details are attended to, such as invitations, attendee confirmations, and venue preparations. 

Project Administration 

• Maintain comprehensive administrative records relevant to projects, ensuring that all documentation is current and easily accessible to project team members. 

Record Keeping 

• Establish and maintain accurate records, comprehensive databases, and organised documentation related to office operations and employee activities, including diligent management of the CRM system to ensure timely updates and accuracy of information. 

Finance 

• Assist with the preparation of financial statements and reports, maintaining accurate and organised accounting records, and supporting the reconciliation of accounts to ensure data integrity.

General 

• Support the organisation to achieve its corporate objectives. 

• Be a proactive and professional representative of VODG and its values at all times, including in relation to the prioritisation of your own responsibilities and professional development. 

• Undertake such duties as may be deemed necessary by the CEO and/or the line manager that are commensurate with the level of this post. 

Prospectus are excited to be working exclusively with our client to help them recruit for their first Interim Fundraising Director. The NGO was founded in 1993, as the UK network for organisations working in international development. They unite and support a diverse network of over 365 civil society organisations to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice. They work to influence governments and policymakers, develop the skills of people in the sector, share expertise, and build organisational capacity and partnerships. They also support the sector to decolonise and become more anti-racist and locally-led.

This role is offered on an interim part-time 12 months contract basis paying a salary of circa £85,000 (0.4 FTE) pro rata with flexible remote working arrangements and occasional meetings at their London office.

The post-holder will support the organisation's secure the next phase of their large grants and to identify and engage with new and existing funders to diversify their funding sources. They will combine coordination with building strong relationships and supporting the organisation's managers and leaders to secure their funding into the future. The post holder will lead an informal team of staff drawn from across the organisation and work closely with the CEO and Directors to establish and maintain relationships with key donors. They will also play a key role in upskilling and developing staff capacity to fundraise within the organisation and coordinating their efforts.

They are looking for a candidate with significant existing relationships and networks amongst the major donors likely to fund the organisation's work. They are looking for someone with demonstrable experience in bringing teams together to submit bids, overseeing active funder management and finding the best relationships from which to secure funds.  The ideal candidate will have a track record in fundraising from major donors and a strong interest in and understanding of the international development sector and the role of networks within that sector.

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity. If you have any disability and require reasonable adjustment/s to any part of the process then please contact Firas El Dib at Prospectus.

If you feel you meet some of the criteria but not all, we really hope you'll enquire and learn more. Prospectus can advise and support on each part of the role and hopefully your application, so we look forward to hearing from you. 

In order to apply please submit your CV in the first instance. Should your experience be suitable, we will arrange for a meeting to brief you on the role. You'll then have all the information you need to formally apply. We are looking forward to connecting with you soon.

About Twins Trust

Twins Trust is at the heart of the multiples’ community, supporting families with twins or triplets, influencing the healthcare system and campaigning on behalf of our community.

Multiple birth families face unique challenges and we’re there for them, every step of the way. With over 40 years’ experience, we tailor our services to our families’ needs. 

Twins Trust has over 15,000 members who access our amazing community, information and courses and exclusive discounts.

High Value Partnerships Manager (Corporate and Trusts)

This is an exciting opportunity to join an ambitious and talented fundraising team

We are looking for an experienced Trust and Corporate Manager - to be known as a High Value Partnerships Manager - to join our small and friendly fundraising team. You will be responsible for driving our strategy for fundraising from Corporate Partnerships and Trusts & Grants, both of which are already well-established income streams with lots of great potential. You will also use your experience to identify, attract and win new partnerships.

Contract: Permanent
Hours:30 hours per week (negotiable for the right candidate)
Flexibility: We are a flexible employer and most of our staff are juggling things (including caring for multiples!) We are great at making jobs work around life.
Salary: £35,000 - £37,000 (pro rata)
Reports to: Head of Development 
Work location: Hybrid/remote. Office space in London Bridge, although entirely remote option is fine. Occasional travel to partner meetings will also be required.
Closing date: midnight on Sunday 1st June
Interview dates: First-round interviews will be virtual and take place in early June

Purpose of the role

• Accountable for winning and delivering partnerships with Corporates and Trust & Grants, with support from a Fundraising Officer
• Secure new partnerships that are vision-aligned, with a focus on multi-year grants/contracts
• Research and develop a strategy for growing our High Value income, whilst providing excellent relationship management, delivery and reporting to those we’re already working with
• Line manage a Fundraising Officer who will provide support to implement your fundraising strategy
• Work with the Head of Development and Senior Management Team to identify opportunities across the charity to fundraise for and demonstrate the impact of our work to partners
• Work with the Membership team to maximise opportunities with brands to offer discounts to Twins Trust's members

Ideal candidate

The ideal candidate will have experience in developing and implementing a strategy for High Value Partnerships. They will be able to demonstrate how they have researched and negotiated partnerships and/or submitted funding applications, providing excellent stewardship and creating meaningful partnerships that lead to long term support and therefore sustainable income.

Person specification

Essential

• Experience of creating and delivering a High Value strategy
• Experience of the full fundraising pipeline, including researching, cultivating and securing multi-year 5 or 6 figure donations from Trusts, Foundations or Corporate Partnerships (experience of both income streams a plus)
• Excellent relationship building skills up to a senior level
• Ability to project manage the delivery of partnerships including impact reporting
• Experience working in a CRM and analysing data to inform decision-making (Microsoft Dynamics experience a plus)
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
• Able to collaborate with a team of various disciplines or work independently as required
• Enthusiasm for the issues we work on

Desirable

• Line management or mentoring experience
• Working understanding of admin processes relating to fundraising
• The ability to demonstrate a commercial mindset
• An understanding of GDPR in relation to fundraising

Head of Homelessness and Complex Needs 

£57,952 a year 

Stoke, Stoke-on-Trent 

Hours per week: 37.5 

Contract type: Permanent 

As Head of Homelessness and Complex Needs, you’ll lead the delivery, development and growth of Concrete services, to enable us to achieve our ambition of making homelessness history. You will strategically and operationally lead and coach all teams to deliver a range of services across North Staffordshire and Cheshire East. 

Job requirements 

• Lead Concrete’s homelessness housing and support services across Staffordshire and Cheshire East. 

• Define and review services to ensure that the needs of customers are met, and develop new and existing services for Concrete’s customers, with a focus on preventative measures. 

• Manage property portfolios, acquisitions, and developments. 

• Raise awareness of homelessness and promote the work of Concrete to make homelessness history. 

• Effective leadership and management of people, including maintaining positive team dynamics, ensuring teams and services are well developed, induction and training of staff and coaching and support to ensure further development. 

• Meet legislative and contractual requirements and ensure compliance with the use of systems and collection of data. 

• Be the primary point of contact at a senior level with partners, representing Concrete at local, regional and national forums. Establish and maintain positive working relationships with other relevant agencies. 

• Ensure that customers are involved and embedded in the day-to-day practice of services. 

• Be actively engaged in the promotion of homelessness services, initiatives and campaigns. 

• Act as the spokesperson for publicity opportunities, alongside the Executive Director of Support and Wellbeing. 

What we’re looking for 

• Good standard of education GCSE in English and Maths or equivalent, with a relevant qualification in housing/social care/support services and with evidence of career progression and self-development. 

• Experience managing supported housing and/or homelessness services. 

• Experience building positive working relationships with commissioners, funding schemes and partners. 

• Experience managing, coaching and developing people at Team Leader level or above, across multiple services and locations. 

• Knowledge and experience of managing contracts and services, with effective management of teams within funded and regulated services. 

• Up to date with current issues, practices and laws within safeguarding, homelessness, mental health and housing. 

• Great written and verbal communication skills and experience working with people at all levels. 

• Self-aware, engaging of others, able to lead change and achieve results. 

• Empathetic and understanding of Concrete’s diverse customer group, with a drive to create the best possible services to meet their needs. 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

• Driving licence with access to own vehicle for work. 
  

Help us give those without a plan, voice or home to build concrete futures by tackling the issues that keep people from finding their own home. Apply now! 

We’ll be interviewing as we go so might close the application process early if we find the right person. 

#Homelessness #Staffordshire #CheshireEast #HeadOfHomelessnessAndComplexNeeds #Leadership #FullTime #GreatBenefits #JobsThatGiveBack #ComplexNeeds #HousingCrisis 

Who we are 

We’re part of Honeycomb Group, a team of social-minded brands championing happy homes in our region by providing services and support that help people across Staffordshire and its surrounding areas feel secure, connected and confident. 

Homelessness isn’t a choice. It can happen to anyone. 
 
 

Concrete is a local charity, support network and campaigner leading the fight to erase homelessness within Staffordshire and its surrounding areas. 
 
 

Through a community-led approach, Concrete helps those without a plan, without a voice and without a home build concrete futures by tackling the underlying issues that keep people from finding and securing a home of their own. 
 
 

Join us on our fight to make homelessness history across Staffordshire and everywhere. 

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance is seeking a strategic and creative Communications, Engagement and Policy Manager to lead our outreach, advocacy, and communications efforts. This part-time leadership role is ideal for someone passionate about empowering disabled communities, building influence, and shaping impactful campaigns in a flexible, supportive work environment.
 

Job Title: Communications, Engagement and Policy Manager

Location: Flexible (with occasional travel required)

Reports to: CEO

Salary: £17,280-18,720 gross per annum (£36,000-£39,000 FTE)

Hours: Part-time, 18 hours per week 

About Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance is a charity dedicated to empowering, supporting, and advocating for individuals living with neuromuscular conditions. Our mission is to ensure that those affected by these conditions have access to the resources, representation, and information they need to live fulfilling and independent lives. 

Job Summary

We are looking for a creative, driven, and collaborative Communications, Engagement and Policy Manager to lead on internal and external communications and to deepen engagement with our members, stakeholders, and the wider community. This is a key role in growing our influence, raising awareness of our work, and supporting our mission to empower people with neuromuscular conditions. Your work will ensure that our user base remains actively engaged, well-informed, and central to our projects and campaign planning. You will oversee an Engagement Officer, Social Media Officer, and Campaigns and Advocacy Officer, working collaboratively to amplify our impact, strengthen user connections, and further our mission.

Key Responsibilities

1. User Engagement and Relationship Management

• Develop and implement strategies to enhance engagement with our users across projects, events, and online platforms, ensuring their voices are integral to our work.

• Work with the Engagement Officer to design and coordinate events, workshops, and other engagement activities, both in-person and online, that support community connection and provide valuable resources to users.

• Gather and analyse feedback from users to ensure our services, content, and campaigns remain relevant and responsive to their needs.

• Manage the CRM and membership of the charity in line with the membership policy.

 2. Content Creation and Communications

• Develop and implement a communication strategy for the organisation to set our key messages, approach and KPIs for engaging with individual, community and professional audiences as well as for internal communications.

• Support the Social Media Officer in developing and implementing a communications plan in particular focused on our social media based activities and content creation.

• Oversee and produce high-quality content for digital platforms, newsletters, reports, and publications that engage and inform our audience.

• Lead on creating and placing feature articles, policy briefings and press releases, and serve as the main media contact to ensure consistent, clear messaging. 

3. Policy, Campaigning, and Advocacy

• Work with the CEO to develop and implement, through the Policy and Campaigns Team, a campaigns strategy that responds to the needs of the neuromuscular community and creates positive, meaningful change for our community.

• Collaborate with the Campaigns and Advocacy Officer to formulate and promote evidence-based policy positions, engaging key stakeholders in government, healthcare, and related sectors.

• Support the Campaigns and Advocacy Officer to expand the Pathfinders advocacy service and drive referrals to the service.

• Represent the organisation at events, sector meetings, and forums to build our profile and increase our influence on policy issues relevant to our community.

 4. Team Leadership and Development

• Manage, support, and foster the professional growth of the Engagement Officer, Social Media Officer, and Campaigns and Advocacy Officer, building a collaborative and empowered team.

• Set team objectives and KPIs, monitor progress, and provide regular feedback to ensure alignment with organisational goals and impact.

5. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Development

• Cultivate relationships with relevant stakeholders, including influencers, partner organisations, funders, policymakers, and the neuromuscular community.

• Work closely with the CEO to manage community partnerships, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and expanding opportunities for user engagement.

  6. Organisational management

• Support the CEO with the overall running of the organisation by attending meetings of the management committee as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, taking on additional tasks as agreed.

• Provide contingency support to the  Senior Leadership Team to cover essential tasks such as reporting hours to our payroll team in the event of staff absence.

• Maintain an overview of projects and teams across the organisation to provide short-term management and HR support in the event of staff shortages or incapacity.

• Review, approve and document payments in the charity using our software and finance process.

• Support the development of funding bids and project plans for introducing new projects.

• Represent the Senior Leadership Team at external events and in meetings with Trustees and Members.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public policy, engagement, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 3-years experience in a communications, policy, or engagement role, ideally within a charity or non-profit setting.

• Experience engaging directly with user communities and developing outreach initiatives.

• Strong writing and editing skills with experience producing content for a variety of platforms including Youtube.

• Experience managing a small team to achieve strategic objectives.

• Knowledge of or strong interest in the healthcare, disability, or neuromuscular sector is desirable.

• Lived experience of a neuromuscular condition is desirable but not essential.

Skills and Attributes

• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance advocacy, engagement, and communication initiatives effectively.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to build relationships across diverse audiences.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritise, and maintain high standards under tight timelines.

• Proficient in social media management, content creation, and analytics.

• A commitment to advocating for and advancing the rights of individuals with neuromuscular conditions.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a purpose-driven, supportive organisation.

• Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance.

• Ongoing professional development opportunities and the chance to lead impactful campaigns and user engagement efforts.

Legacy Stewardship Manager
Home based, remote working 
£42,000 pa plus excellent benefits
35 hours per week

The Legacy Stewardship Manager will plan and deliver an ambitious new legacy stewardship strategy to bring about growth in future legacy income.  It will diversify the current legacy stewardship programme to convert more legacy prospects and maintain more pledgers using a combination of relationship and mass fundraising activities. It will be responsible for planning and delivering high quality communications and experiences which make supporters feel inspired, valued and deepen relationships with them over the long-term.

This role is critical in growing future legacy income for RNID, which currently represents 72% of RNID’s income. It will play a pivotal role in a Legacy Fundraising Team of four people, reporting into the Head of Legacies, working alongside the Legacy Marketing Manager and line managing the Gifts in Wills Specialist Officer.

This role is a new addition to a growing team in an organisation where legacy fundraising has a high profile.  It is an ideal next step for an experienced and confident legacy fundraiser wanting to make their mark by growing the legacy stewardship programme to a new ambitious level that matches an increased investment in legacy acquisition.

You’re an experienced and ambitious legacy fundraiser with the ability to think strategically as well as deliver a full and varied programme of operational activity. You’re ready to apply your previous experience, success and ideas to shape and grow RNID’s legacy stewardship programme to its full potential.  You’re confident, innovative and keen to use data and insight to improve performance. You’re a strong collaborator and able to influence internal stakeholders at all levels. You’re an excellent project and event manager, able to plan and deliver multiple activities simultaneously to agreed deadlines and budgets.

You will be responsible for:

· Working with the Head of Legacies to diversify and plan the legacy stewardship programme, applying test and learn principles to evaluate and improve performance.

· Operational delivery of a varied legacy stewardship programme including supporter care, supporter journeys, in person and online events.

· Overseeing all one-to-one interactions with legacy prospects and supporters, either directly or through senior colleagues such as RNID’s Chief Executive.

· Educating and training colleagues to confidently support legacy fundraising activities.

· Line managing and developing the Gifts in Wills Relationship Officer.

· Working with the Head of Legacies, contributing to annual operational planning, budget setting, phasing, reforecasting and contingency planning. 

We are RNID: the national charity supporting the 18 million people in the UK who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus. Together, we will end the discrimination faced by our communities, help people hear better now and fund world-class research to restore hearing and silence tinnitus. We work with our communities and partners across industry, government, charity, education and more to change life for the better.

We champion the value of difference and equality and celebrate our diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively encourage applications from eligible candidates from BAME backgrounds or who are deaf or hard of hearing. With almost 20% of our employees having a disability we proudly hold Disability Confident Leader status and guarantee an interview for disabled applicants meeting the minimum essential criteria.

Closing date: 3 June 2025

Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager

35 hours per week, temporary contract until December 2028

We are Chester Zoo

We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to over 37,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.

The Role

We now have an exciting new role for a Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager within our Conservation Education and Engagement Directorate. This role is part of the Networks for Nature project team.

Networks for Nature spans c60 square miles from the River Dee to the River Mersey, including Chester and Ellesmere Port. This is a collaborative partnership project working with Cheshire West and Chester Local Authority, The Land Trust, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Canal and River Trust, and Sustrans with the aim to drive nature recovery in a mixed-use landscape, creating diverse habitats for species to thrive now and for years to come. We will empower communities to have an active role in conservation action and stewardship and will focus on making nature more accessible to and inclusive for everyone to enable connection and improve wellbeing. To find out more about Networks for Nature visit Networks For Nature | Conservation at Chester Zoo.

The Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager will lead the community engagement aspects of the Networks for Nature project. They will establish new and maintain existing community relationships, and lead on the development and delivery of a diverse programme of wildlife and wellbeing activities, with the overall aim of building the capacity of community groups, community leaders and other stakeholders within Networks for Nature project area and increasing connection and access to nature for community participants from diverse backgrounds. The Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager will also lead the development of a growing area of work around green social prescribing and work with local healthcare professionals to develop programmes that meet the needs of the community to harness the power of nature and wildlife for wellbeing. The Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager will line manage a Wildlife and Wellbeing Officer.

We’re looking for someone who can:

• Partnership and audience development: Manage existing and build new relationships with community groups to support their continued participation in the project and commitment to creating habitats for UK Wildlife. Build effective working relationships with internal and external partners in support of our community engagement and organisational aims.
• Community programme delivery: Develop and deliver a programme of family wildlife clubs, wildlife and wellbeing activities, green social prescribing, meetings, consultations and other activities, enabling community audiences to engage with Networks for Nature, working within a framework agreed by Networks for Nature Project Manager and meeting the requirements of the project Activity Plan. Ensure activities are designed to meet community needs, connect people to nature and support wellbeing using robust and evidence-based methods such as five ways to wellbeing and five pathways to Nature Connectedness.
• Capacity building: Share knowledge and build capacity in the area of nature and wellbeing, both internally and with community partners across the NFN area. Continue to develop own expertise in this area and ensure that the NFN project is informed by the latest good practice in relation to nature-based wellbeing work.
• Resource development: Research, write and co-ordinate the production of learning resources to support participation in the NFN.
• Evaluation and reporting: Work closely with the Networks for Nature Project Manager and external evaluator to devise and deliver an evaluation programme for the Networks for Nature project, including collection and collation of data from project participants. Lead on the measurement of wellbeing outcomes across the project, working closely with the project evaluator and NFN Project Manager to ensure a holistic approach to evaluation and reporting.
• Compliance: Ensure that all activities delivered within communities are safe and appropriately risk assessed, inclusive and that safeguarding has been fully considered.
• Budget management: Take primary responsibility for monitoring the project budget relevant to community engagement, under the guidance of the NFN Project Manager and Senior Community Participation and Engagement Manager.
• Staff management and development: Manage the Wildlife and Wellbeing Officer, overseeing their training programme, and providing continuous support for their professional development.
   

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…

We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of over 600 permanent and 500 temporary team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

Our working environment could not be more different from a typical office – where else can you see critically endangered orangutans from your office window, or stroll among rare giraffes and tigers on your lunch break?

The Package

• Fixed term contract until December 2028
• 35 hours per week
• The postholder will work 5 days per week, with the flexibility to work evening and weekend to meet the needs of the project. This may enable some homeworking fitting around community delivery.
• Salary £27,938.29 per annum pro rata
• 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days (pro rota)
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Cycle to work scheme
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%

Our Requirements

• An understanding & affinity to the organisation’s mission, vision & values, with an interest in the conservation of UK nature.
• Experience coordinating and administering community programmes and projects, preferably within a zoo, aquarium or other environmental education or conservation focused organisation and with high levels of participation/co-development.
• Subject knowledge: The post holder will have knowledge and understanding of the health and wellbeing benefits of fostering a connection to nature, including practical understanding of the evidence-based models used in this area. The post holder also requires a working knowledge of conservation and the key issues threatening the natural world today, particularly with a focus on UK native species.
• Experience working collaboratively with a wide range of community partners, including stakeholder engagement.
• Experience of using learning programmes to bring about social change, ideally encouraging sustainable behaviours and supporting wellbeing.
• Relevant experience leading training and/or delivering workshops with a range of audiences from a wide variety of backgrounds.
• Experience developing high quality resources for learning, both paper based and digitally.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, demonstrated through a wide range of experience presenting to different audiences, teaching and delivering learning in different formats (workshops, presentations, talks, tours etc.)
• Experience coordinating and administering projects with demonstrable project coordination skills and knowledge.
• Experience monitoring and evaluating engagement activities in a community context, preferably of activities that have a wellbeing focus.
• Attention to detail and proof-reading skills are essential.
• IT skills: Skilled in the use of all key Microsoft packages and use of digital technologies for public engagement.
• Organisational skills: Excellent time management, administration and planning skills. Ability to coordinate multiple project activities, meeting deadlines and ensuring appropriate quality control.
• Interpersonal skills: Excellent diplomacy and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively under own initiative and as part of a team, to work under pressure with positive attitude and also to enthuse and engage others. The role requires the post holder to work extensively across different departments and with external colleagues.
• Full clean driving licence.

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Relevant degree as demonstration of high level of subject knowledge.
• Experience of asset-based community development and understanding of Trauma-Informed Practices.
• Experience of working with SEND audiences, audiences with mental health/physical health support needs, economically disadvantaged audiences, or supported families.

Due to the nature of the organisation and the role, this post is subject to a DBS check.

The closing date for applications is midnight 1st June 2025

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; the advert will close once the successful candidate is found and it is possible this will be prior to the advertised end date. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.

Networks for Nature is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.

One of our fantastic clients is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of External Affairs to develop and implement a comprehensive external affairs strategy. This pivotal role will be instrumental in strengthening societies and changing lives, working closely with senior leadership to lead government relations across the UK and cultivate relationships with elected representatives, the Civil Service, and key partners within the voluntary, community, and social enterprise sectors.

The successful candidate will lead a team of public affairs, policy, and influencing professionals, contributing to the wider communications strategy. They will leverage an extensive network of stakeholders and a deep understanding of policy and public affairs to stay abreast of significant developments, ensuring the organisation remains proactive in its positioning and sensitive areas.

This role requires a leader who can inspire and develop a team of External Affairs professionals, devising and executing projects in a fast-paced environment while ensuring alignment with strategic goals. The External Affairs mandate is exceptionally diverse, spanning devolved governments across the UK and increasing regional devolution within England. Regular travel to attend meetings and spend time with colleagues across the UK will be required.

The Head of External Affairs will provide a professional, consistent, and expert service, supporting strategic activity across the organisation. They will oversee tailoring outputs to effectively reach key external affairs stakeholders and play a senior role in assessing areas of reputational risk.

Key responsibilities

• As a member of the communications leadership team, take ownership of, create, and implement a comprehensive external affairs strategy to deliver the organisation's missions and strategic objectives, including significant activity in the national portfolios, integrated and aligned to its communications strategy.

• Provide strategic oversight of government relations, public affairs, and strategic engagement across the UK, including relationships with sponsor bodies, working closely with the CEO Office and Portfolio Directors. Offer strategic guidance, sound judgement, and advice to senior leadership and other teams, driving a consistent organisational approach to relationship management.

• Take responsibility for strategic horizon scanning for external affairs activity across the mission areas, ensuring information and advice is shared directly with the CEO and senior colleagues, and opportunities for stakeholder engagement and influencing are maximised.

• Devise and lead a programme of external engagement with key policy, political, and mission-related stakeholders for the Chair, CEO, Board Members, and other senior leaders. This includes owning and coordinating key messages and briefings, attending meetings as appropriate, and ensuring actions are followed up.

• Oversee the design and delivery of engagement programmes that measurably increase engagement with key political and other audiences. Identify and manage risks, trends, or opportunities to protect and enhance the organisation's reputation and ensure successful influencing among key stakeholders.

• Plan and deliver a continuous review and evaluation of activities, including external benchmarking, measurement of engagement levels, and performance standards to ensure effective delivery of the External Affairs strategy across the four nations.

• Lead and develop a high-performing team, delegating work effectively, ensuring appropriate use of resource across the team, and providing and commissioning external suppliers and internal stakeholders to deliver high-quality plans.

Person Specifications

• Substantial experience leading government relations, public affairs, policy, and advocacy in a large, matrix organisation, ideally interacting with devolved administrations (national and mayoral).

• Experience in building and maintaining relationships with senior political and other stakeholders, fostering collaboration across diverse communities and perspectives.

• Experience of planning and executing strategic engagement across a range of high-profile audiences and activities, including responsibility for Chair/CEO/Board-level engagement.

• Experience of strategic planning and decision-making at a local, regional, and national level, including with peer organisations and local governments.

• Excellent interpersonal, networking, and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences with clarity and inclusivity.

• Experience of briefing and working with senior leaders in support of organisational and engagement objectives, often at short notice, including providing counsel in times of reputational risk and navigating complex organisational dynamics.

• Demonstrable leadership and project-management ability, with experience developing high-performing teams, resource management, and working in a matrix-management and collaborative environment.

• Experience commissioning agencies and third-party suppliers to work with internal stakeholders to deliver high-quality plans.

• Experience of continued professional, managerial, and personal development within the relevant discipline.

• If this role is based in Wales, or supports customers or colleagues in Wales, an understanding of Welsh language legislation and the Welsh Language Standards of the organisation is required.

What’s on Offer:

• Salary of £54,277-£60,000 outside London or £59,000-£66,500 inside London 

• Full time role 

• 12 month contract

• Immediate start 

How to Apply: To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the “apply now” button via our website.

The process: If your experience aligns with what we're looking for, a member of our team will be in contact to discuss the role with you in more detail before presenting your profile to the client. We will also ensure that all applicants receive an email to inform them of the outcome of their application.

To avoid any potential delays or your application being missed, please apply solely via the 'Apply Now' button.

Commitment to Diversity: The Talent Set and our partner organisation are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.