142 Youth engagement officer youth engagement officer jobs
How's your job search on our site?
As Fearless Youth Lead for Scotland, you will lead a national programme that empowers young people to understand crime-related issues and overcome barriers to reporting crime safely and anonymously. Working with schools, communities, government partners and key stakeholders, you will drive engagement campaigns, develop meaningful partnerships and lead a small team to deliver positive outcomes for young people across Scotland.
Please read the full job pack , before submitting your CV and covering letter.
FTC until March 2029 | Full time | Based in Scotland (Glasgow/Edinburgh) with regular travel | £36,000 - £38,000 DOE | PVG required
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About This Job
The role requires a strong communicator who can translate complex information into accessible content and build trusted relationships across key stakeholder groups, particularly within the ACF. As well as a requirement to attend events across the UK to promote the charity.
Essential Skills
· GCSE English or equivalent experience
· At least two year’s experience of drafting award citations or funding applications
· Experience of working with partners, internally and externally
· Ability to extract information from people with varying powers of written expression
· Information gathering and analysis skills
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Please refer to the attached Job Description for further information.
Our charity
ACCT UK is a national youth charity dedicated to improving the life chances of young people. The Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA) is a charity dedicated to the promotion of the ideals and activities of the Combined Cadet Force in schools. Together we want to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and be inspired through their cadet experience.
We want to develop the youth leadership and training abilities of adult volunteers whilst also helping young people to access cadet activities through fundraising, grant-making, developing new resources and direct support.
We strongly believe that everyone benefits when you help young people to develop their character and values through activities that stretch and mature them. We also know that when young people engage with others at a range of levels in their communities it builds confidence and improves empathy for other’s lives.
Who we are
By joining the charities, you will help us to reach more young people and make a greater difference and we look forward to working with you. We actively promote and encourage you to explore ideas that improve all aspects of the charity’s work in pursuit of its charitable aims.
The charities are proud of our diverse teams, with people on different working patterns, from different backgrounds and at different life-stages. Our experience has taught us that having people with different perspectives and different lived experiences leads to better outcomes for our beneficiaries. If you are wondering if our organisation is for someone like you, the answer is yes! Please apply and explain how you, your experience, your talent and your potential are the right fit for this role.
What we can offer you
In addition to your salary, we offer all staff:
· Flexible working arrangements (you agree a working pattern with your line manager).
· The ability to work both from home and from our London office.
· Personal Accident Insurance, including loss of earnings cover and death benefit.
· 15 days of sick pay in any 12-month period (after 12 months employment - pro-rata for part time staff).
· A contributory pension scheme (you contribute at least 5% and we will contribute 10%).
· Good leave allowances (which are offered pro-rata for part time staff):
o 20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
o Additional privilege leave, on set days each year, such as between Christmas and New Year.
o An additional five days of volunteering leave.
· Support for qualifications and personal development.
· Employee Assistance Programme.
· Season ticket loan.
· Railcard (if you are eligible).
· A caring and supportive team environment.
How to apply
Please send a CV and Cover letter that details how you meet the requirements of the job description by 2359hrs by Sunday 4th October 2026.
Interviews will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams shortly after the closing date.
While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.
Please note that as a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people, we require staff to make a declaration about any relevant convictions, undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check. In addition, we will follow up with references.
Please be advised that this position may close earlier than the stated deadline if a sufficient number of high-quality applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as possible. Candidates will be notified of the next stage in the recruitment process if they are shortlisted.
Army Cadet Charitable Trust (ACCT) UK aims to give all young people the opportunity to develop and achieve through Army Cadets activities.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About This Job
You will form part of a small satellite team of Safeguarding Case Support Officers (SCSOs). Overseen by a Senior Caseworker Manager, you will assess and decide on safeguarding allegations and concerns within the Army Cadets across Scotland and Northern Ireland. You must be an appropriately qualified and experienced safeguarding professional, capable of conducting child safeguarding investigations and adept at collaborating with multiple agencies.
Essential Skills
· Diploma or Degree in a relevant subject area.
· Evidence of continuing personal and professional development
· Front-line safeguarding interventions and/ or risk assessment of perpetrators of abuse.
· Sound knowledge of safeguarding interventions.
· Understand legislative requirements for safeguarding young people.
· Please refer to the attached Job Description for further information.
Our charity
ACCT UK is a national youth charity dedicated to improving the life chances of young people. The Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA) is a charity dedicated to the promotion of the ideals and activities of the Combined Cadet Force in schools. Together we want to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and be inspired through their cadet experience.
We want to develop the youth leadership and training abilities of adult volunteers whilst also helping young people to access cadet activities through fundraising, grant-making, developing new resources and direct support.
We strongly believe that everyone benefits when you help young people to develop their character and values through activities that stretch and mature them. We also know that when young people engage with others at a range of levels in their communities it builds confidence and improves empathy for other’s lives.
Who we are
By joining the charities, you will help us to reach more young people and make a greater difference and we look forward to working with you. We actively promote and encourage you to explore ideas that improve all aspects of the charity’s work in pursuit of its charitable aims.
The charities are proud of our diverse teams, with people on different working patterns, from different backgrounds and at different life-stages. Our experience has taught us that having people with different perspectives and different lived experiences leads to better outcomes for our beneficiaries. If you are wondering if our organisation is for someone like you, the answer is yes! Please apply and explain how you, your experience, your talent and your potential are the right fit for this role.
What we can offer you
In addition to your salary, we offer all staff:
· Flexible working arrangements (you agree a working pattern with your line manager).
· The ability to work both from home and from our London office.
· Personal Accident Insurance, including loss of earnings cover and death benefit.
· 15 days of sick pay in any 12-month period (after 12 months employment - pro-rata for part time staff).
· A contributory pension scheme (you contribute at least 5% and we will contribute 10%).
· Good leave allowances (which are offered pro-rata for part time staff):
o 20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
o Additional privilege leave, on set days each year, such as between Christmas and New Year.
o An additional five days of volunteering leave.
· Support for qualifications and personal development.
· Employee Assistance Programme.
· Season ticket loan.
· Railcard (if you are eligible).
· A caring and supportive team environment.
How to apply
Please send a CV and Cover letter that details how you meet the requirements of the job description by 2359hrs by Sunday 11th October 2026.
Interviews will be held shortly after the closing date, in person/virtually TBC – we will let you know if you have progressed.
While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.
Please note that as a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people, we require staff to make a declaration about any relevant convictions, undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check. In addition, we will follow up with references.
Please be advised that this position may close earlier than the stated deadline if a sufficient number of high-quality applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as possible. Candidates will be notified of the next stage in the recruitment process if they are shortlisted.
Army Cadet Charitable Trust (ACCT) UK aims to give all young people the opportunity to develop and achieve through Army Cadets activities.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About School of Hard Knocks
School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) is one of the UK’s leading education charities, working in 29 secondary schools across England, Scotland, and Wales. Using rugby as a key delivery tool, we support young people who are struggling to engage in early secondary education - often because of anxiety, low confidence, disrupted home lives, or behavioural challenges rooted in trauma. For many of the children we support, life has already brought more hardship than most adults experience in a lifetime. Our purpose is clear: to help young people facing complex challenges break the cycle and move towards a safer, stronger, more hopeful future.
The SOHK Schools Programme is a two-year intervention working with cohorts of around 20 pupils from Year 7 through to Year 9. Pupils are selected by the school and are typically among the hardest to reach young people. Each week, we deliver half a day of rugby training and classroom sessions built around our 3Cs framework, covering topics such as growth mindset, goal setting, and decision-making, alongside monthly one-to-one sessions with every pupil. The programme’s impact is evaluated by SOHK staff, teachers, parents, and the pupils themselves.
90% of our participants report feeling more confident and more engaged with school after taking part, with long-term effects on attendance, attainment, and life outcomes. Find out more about our Schools Programme.
Since 2023, SOHK has been proud to partner with Impetus, a charity that invests in and supports organisations helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed. This partnership combines investment with strategic and organisational development support, helping to strengthen our impact and set SOHK up for sustainable growth.
We are proud to be delivering long-term programmes that meaningfully reach hundreds of young people each year - but the societal need is vast. Our ambitious four-year strategic plan targets growth, aiming to bring our impactful programme to hundreds more young people each year.
“Despite the usual challenges that every education or sport for development charity faces, School of Hard Knocks really is unique. It is not so much what we deliver at a programme level (which is of course brilliant) but who we are as a team. If you are a values-led leader and love the idea of ‘team’, then School of Hard Knocks is the place for you.”
- Ken Cowen, Founder and outgoing CEO
The Role
The CEO is the public face and leader of SOHK, responsible for the overall strategic direction, vision, and management of the charity - ensuring SOHK meets its mission and strategic objectives while maintaining strong relationships with Trustees, staff, supporters, and the wider SOHK community. We’re looking for a mission-driven charity leader and effective fundraiser, capable of building a sustainable growth model.
Strategy and Direction
● Be the face and voice of the charity - its principal ambassador
● Lead the development and periodic review of SOHK’s strategy with the Trustees and Senior Management Team
● Translate the 2026-30 strategy into organisational priorities, plans, and goals
● Ensure safeguarding, wellbeing, and the lived experience of young people remain central to every decision and growth plan
Programme Delivery, Quality and Impact
● Hold a high bar for programme quality and outcomes for young people
● Line-manage and support the Director of Programmes, working with delivery teams and partners to build a world-class, evidence-based intervention
● Ensure SOHK can evidence the impact of its programmes, with insights feeding back into constant improvement
Income Generation, Fundraising and External Relations
● Lead income generation across trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and challenges and events
● Line-manage and support the Head of Fundraising in executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy
● Hold senior relationships with funders and partners, building SOHK’s brand, reputation, and profile
Leading People, Culture and Operations
● Build and lead a high-performing Senior Management Team
● Foster a positive, inclusive, high-performing culture aligned with SOHK’s values
● Line-manage and support the Director of Finance & Operations, ensuring operational excellence
Governance and the Board
● Act as the primary link between the organisation and the Trustees
● Attend all Trustee meetings (held quarterly) and provide timely, accurate reporting
● Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and Charity Commission requirements
About You
Essential
● Proven senior leadership experience in the charity, education, youth, or social impact sector - whether as CEO or as part of an executive team - including working directly with a Board of Trustees
● Demonstrated success in building or significantly growing an organisation, programme, or initiative
● A collaborative and values-led leadership style, with the ability to inspire trust, hold people to account, and build high-performing teams
● Strong track record of income generation, including securing significant funding from trusts, foundations, corporates, or major donors
● Experience of financial oversight, budgeting, and organisational planning at a senior level
● Strategic thinker, able to translate vision into clear plans and delivery
● Strong relationship-builder and communicator, confident with a wide range of stakeholders
Desirable
● Previous charity CEO experience - a bonus, but not essential; we know brilliant candidates come from a wide range of backgrounds
● Direct classroom, youth work, or education leadership experience
● Knowledge of the UK education system and youth policy landscape
● Experience of scaling a multi-site delivery organisation and working with local authorities
Personal Attributes
● Deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people, especially those facing disadvantage
● Resilient and persistent, able to work under pressure and navigate setbacks
● Collaborative, open, and reflective leader who seeks feedback and learns from it
Terms of Appointment
Contract type
Full-time, permanent
Location
Greater London, with offices in Edinburgh & Cardiff
Salary
£85,000 – £90,000 per year + £5,000 PRP
Reports to
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Direct reports
Director of Programmes; Head of Fundraising; Director of Finance & Operations
Travel
Regular UK travel, primarily to Edinburgh and Cardiff. Occasional evenings for stakeholder engagement and fundraising events
Trustee meetings
Quarterly, in London, in the evening, plus ad hoc subcommittees
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 Programmes Officer
Hours: 35 hours per week
Reporting to: Youth Programmes Manager
About us
The Ben Kinsella Trust is one of the UK’s leading anti-knife crime charities. We were set up following the tragic murder of 16-year-old Ben Kinsella in 2008, and everything we do is guided by his legacy. Our mission is to prevent knife crime through education and campaigning.
Ben was a kind, creative young person who loved art, music, Arsenal FC, and making people laugh. He had big dreams of becoming a graphic designer. His death was a senseless act of violence, and the outpouring of grief and public support that followed marked the start of a movement. Ben’s own words, written shortly before his death, called for change, and his voice continues to inspire our work.
Through immersive workshops in our Choices and Consequences Exhibitions and free online resources, we have reached over 50,000 young people so far. Our work challenges myths about knife crime, strengthens peer influence, and sparks meaningful conversations. As we grow, we remain committed to honouring Ben’s life by making a real, lasting difference to young people across the UK.
We’re a small but growing team of 11 (rising to 14), working across Programmes, Fundraising, Communications, Finance and Operations, and Leadership. Our Programmes team is supported by a brilliant pool of freelance facilitators and actors who help bring our workshops to life. We’re now looking for an Youth Programmes Officer to join us at this exciting time. We’re looking for someone who is passionate about evidence-based interventions, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is confident working to establish and maintain relationships with external organisations.
Ben’s legacy is our guide – we exist to stop knife crime
About the Role
We are looking for an education or youth work professional who can deliver our programmes to a very high standard. You will be a skilled facilitator and communicator who can engage with young people from a diverse range of backgrounds. Additionally, we are seeking someone who shares our values and is passionate about using education as a tool to support and empower young people and to stop knife crime.
As Youth Programmes Officer you will be responsible for the delivery and coordination of our flagship knife crime prevention workshops to young people, to a high standard. You will work alongside the Programmes team to ensure workshops at our London exhibitions (currently Islington and Barking & Dagenham) operate smoothly and consistently to serve young people through the achievement of quality outcomes and maximised engagement. You will play a key part in the delivery of our Youth Ambassador Programme and contribute to the development of new programmes and opportunities during an exciting period of growth for the charity.
Key Responsibilities
Programme delivery
- Deliver workshops to a range of groups (primary, secondary, PRU/AP and adults), adapting to different needs
- Ensure sessions are engaging, high quality, and responsive to feedback
Programme development
- Gather and analyse feedback to improve programmes
- Support the development of new projects and resources
Workshop coordination
- Coordinate day-to-day delivery across two sites
- Manage bookings, enquiries and pre-visit information
- Maintain strong relationships with schools and partners
- Keep CRM and booking systems up to date
- Coordinate freelance facilitators and support their onboarding and training
General
- Carry out other duties as required
Person Specification
Experience
- Delivering workshops or training to young people
- Adapting structured programmes to different needs
- Managing behaviour and supporting young people with additional needs
- Coordinating multiple tasks or stakeholders
- General admin and use of digital systems
(Desirable: programme design, training adults, relevant qualification in teaching/youth work)
Skills and knowledge
- Strong facilitation and communication skills
- Ability to build positive relationships
- Understanding of youth violence or knife crime
- Knowledge of inclusive teaching approaches
Personal qualities
- Passionate about supporting young people
- Reliable, organised and proactive
- Collaborative and professional
- Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion
- Open to learning and continuous improvement
Benefits
- Flexible working where possible
- 27 days’ annual leave (+ bank holidays), rising with service
- Enhanced sick pay
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Development opportunities
How to apply
Submit a CV and supporting statement outlining how you meet the person specification. Please also answer the two additional questions on the application form.
Applications close: Friday 18th September 09:30am
Interview schedule:
- 1st stage, Week Commencing 21st September (Virtual)
- 2nd stage, Week commencing 28th September 2026 (in person)
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if a suitable candidate is identified, so we encourage early applications.
The Ben Kinsella Trust prevents knife crime through education and campaigning


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Youth Outreach and Community Worker (London - Waterloo)
Railway Children (UK Programme)
£32,000 per year plus 10% London weighting
Full-time – Permanent
WE STAND FOR CHILDREN, THEIR CHILDHOODS AND THEIR FUTURES - WILL YOU?
Looking for a rewarding role where you can make a difference? Do you have the drive to create positive change in children’s lives and inspire others to do the same?
If the answer is yes, then read on to hear about this exciting opportunity.
We’re Railway Children, an international charity working to create long-lasting change for street-connected children and young people in the UK, India and Tanzania. Founded in 1996, we’ve dedicated over a quarter of a century to developing outstanding practice and services for vulnerable children and their families. As part of our current strategy to 2027, we have ambitious plans to ensure no child is left behind, wherever we work.
The role
We are looking to recruit a Youth Outreach and Community Worker in London as part of our UK Programme.
This role requires close working with partners, engaging and safeguarding young people in and around Waterloo Station, helping to identify and safeguard young people at risk of criminal and sexual exploitation, county lines, missing from home, homelessness or family breakdown. This role involves working regular unsociable hours including evenings and weekends.
You will be working closely alongside key partners such as British Transport Police, security staff, Train Operators, Youth Services and other local stakeholders.
You’ll play a key role in the development of our UK Safeguarding on Transport Programme and part of a dynamic team delivering Railway Children’s safeguarding programme in the UK.
About you
We are looking for someone who brings experience of successfully engaging and supporting young people as well as experience of working in an outreach or similar community setting, in a creative and engaging way with young people with a range of needs and vulnerabilities.
Alongside this you will be able to work effectively with community and statutory partners to safeguard young people.
You will have completed relevant training, have experience in safeguarding and in the issues relevant to vulnerable young and families. Therefore, you will be an experienced practitioner with an excellent understanding of safeguarding processes and procedures, who is able to work creatively, independently and within professional boundaries.
Your base would be at Waterloo station with regular travel to other stations and some home working. This role involves working regular unsociable hours including evenings and weekends.
A full job specification can be found in the job pack.
For further information about this post and working for Railway Children, including how to apply, please visit our website.
We welcome and encourage applications from candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds and lived experience.
Railway Children is committed to safeguarding anyone who comes into contact with us and implements a range of policies to ensure only those suitable to work with vulnerable groups are employed.
Closing Date: Wednesday 23rd September
Online Interviews: Wednesday 30th September/Thursday 1st October
In person interviews: Wednesday 7th October/Thursday 8th October
A world where every child can thrive away from a life on the streets.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Working as part of the operations team, the you will help maintain the systems, processes and practical foundations
that enable the organisation to function effectively. This includes supporting people operations and HR administration,
leading on governance and advisory meeting administration, acting as the first point of contact for IT queries, and helping
FEA’s events run smoothly.
Acting as a trusted point of support for colleagues, you will help create a responsive and well-organised
working environment where staff, trustees and members feel enabled to do their best work. The role requires exceptional
organisation, sound judgement and a genuine pride in quality. By ensuring that the practical aspects of the organisation
run reliably and well, you will help create the conditions that allow the Fair Education Alliance to deliver its
mission and drive progress towards a fairer education system.
No child’s success should be limited by their socioeconomic background.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Note: This post is exempt under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1, and is open to female applicants only, due to the nature of the role. Subject to an enhanced DBS check.
The Head of Youth Programmes sits in our Senior Leadership Team and holds overall operational responsibility for our frontline youth programmes across three pillars: Prevention, Intervention and Healing. The postholder leads and line manages the delivery team, and carries DSL responsibility for the organisation.
You'll lead delivery, expansion and impact evaluation across all three pillars, line manage the Education Lead, IDVA Team and Creative Projects leads, and work closely with the CEO to consolidate our delivery models. You'll hold responsibility as our Designated Safeguarding Lead, manage operational budgets, and build multi-agency partnerships across Barnet and neighbouring boroughs.
It's an opportunity to bring fresh energy and strategic leadership to a small, values-driven charity that trusts its team to do meaningful, creative work with the young people we support.
Essential criteria
- Experience as an IDVA, ISVA or in a comparable frontline advocacy role supporting young women and girls affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence or other forms of harm.
- A strong understanding of VAWG, domestic abuse and youth harm, grounded in survivor-centred and harm-prevention approaches.
- Experience of overseeing and responding to complex safeguarding through multi-agency working.
- At least Level 3 safeguarding training. Designated Safeguarding Lead training is desirable, or a willingness to complete this within an agreed timeframe.
We have highlighted the essentials above. The rest of the person specification, in the attached recruitment pack, is a guide to what we are looking for in a strong candidate, rather than a checklist. Your experience may not meet all of it, but if you have the essential experience we would encourage you to apply. We are just as interested in transferable experience as in a conventional career path.
Benefits
- Regular clinical supervision with an external practitioner
- Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme, including a 24/7 helpline, counselling and a wellbeing app
- Free on-site parking in Colindale and funded travel between delivery sites
Details
£38,000 to £40,000 pro rata. 28 hours per week (four day working week). Permanent. Barnet, London / Hybrid.
Closing date: Thursday 15th October 2026. Interviews: w/c Monday 26th October 2026.
Our mission is to end relationship abuse by working with young people to provide specialist spaces for prevention, intervention and healing
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 Volunteering Officer
35 hours per week, temporary contract until December 2028.
We are Chester Zoo
We're not just an award-winning visitor attraction that's home to 30,000 incredible animals within 128 acres of stunning gardens. We're a major conservation charity committed to preventing extinction and restoring nature, both locally and globally.
As the world faces an extinction crisis, we're making a significant contribution to conservation when it's needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.
The Role
We have an exciting opportunity for a Youth Volunteering Officer to join our Volunteering Team within the Conservation Education and Engagement Directorate.
As a Youth Volunteering Officer, you will work closely with the Volunteer Manager and the Networks for Nature project staff to deliver an inclusive volunteering programme for young people aged 14-25. The role focuses on creating meaningful opportunities that connect young people with conservation and social action, whilst supporting their personal development and wellbeing.
The Youth Volunteering Officer will recruit, train and mentor young volunteers, ensuring high-quality experiences that are inclusive, safe and impactful. The Youth Volunteering Officer will also recruit, train and support adult Youth Champion Volunteers who will be empower and support the youth volunteers to participate and engage in the volunteer programme.
As Youth Volunteer Officer, you will co-ordinate a supported programme for young people that will include practical conservation, visitor engagement and the Conservation Changemakers programme, designing and delivering their own projects while recognising and evidencing the skills they gain.
The role will also support the delivery of our wider youth programmes including our Environmental Leadership courses, and Youth Network events supporting pathways for young people to access training, events, and volunteer experiences.
We're looking for someone who can:
Programme Delivery
With guidance from the Volunteer Manager, coordinate and deliver youth volunteering opportunities for young people aged 14-25, including practical conservation activities, visitor engagement opportunities and social action projects. Support young people to develop skills, confidence and experience through meaningful volunteering.
Volunteer Recruitment and Support
Recruit, induct, train and support youth volunteers, ensuring they receive a positive and rewarding volunteering experience. Support young people to access pathways into conservation, community action and the wider youth programme. Recruit, train and support Youth Champion Volunteers who play a key role in encouraging and facilitating youth participation within the programme.
Inclusive Participation
Work proactively to reduce barriers to participation and provide tailored support for young people from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, neurodiversity, mental health challenges or socio-economic disadvantage.
Youth-led Projects and Co-production
Coordinate and facilitate youth-led conservation and community action projects through the Conservation Changemakers programme. Enable young people to generate ideas, plan activities, take ownership of projects and evidence their learning and achievements.
Events, Training and Activities Planning and Delivery
With support from the Volunteer Manager, deliver volunteer events, training sessions, workshops and networking opportunities for youth volunteers, working with colleagues and partners to provide engaging and high-quality experiences. Support the delivery of youth programme events, including Environmental Leadership courses.
Participant Engagement Monitoring
Monitor participation through surveys, feedback mechanisms and regular check-ins. Collate engagement and outcome data, contributing to project evaluation and reporting for internal stakeholders and funders.
Daily Volunteer Engagement
Manage day-to-day communication with youth volunteers and Youth Champion Volunteers, including responding to enquiries, processing applications, maintaining records, organising rotas and training bookings, and providing ongoing support.
Safeguarding, Safety and Risk Assessments
Work with the Volunteer Manager to ensure all youth volunteering activities operate within safeguarding policies and procedures. Assist with risk assessments and ensure that appropriate welfare, wellbeing and safety measures are embedded throughout all activities.
Partnership Working
Work with the Volunteer Manager to develop effective working relationships with schools, colleges, youth organisations, community groups and relevant internal departments to increase participation, reduce barriers to engagement and strengthen programme delivery.
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
• Salary £24,062.50 per annum (pro rata based on 35 hours per week)
• The postholder will work 5 days out of 7 including a regular weekend day
• 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
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions
Our Requirements
• An understanding of and commitment to Chester Zoo's mission, vision and values.
• Experience of working with young people.
• Experience of coordinating, supporting or working with volunteers.
• Experience of delivering training, workshops or activities with a range of audiences.
• Knowledge of inclusive practice and supporting young people with diverse needs.
• Strong organisational, administrative and planning skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication and literacy skills including by phone, face to face and via email/online discussion boards
• Ability to build positive relationships with young people, colleagues and partner organisations.
• Sound working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and digital communication tools.
• Experience of working in a busy office environment as part of a team & on own initiative
• Full UK driving licence.
Although not essential, the following would be desirable:
• Knowledge of youth work/ youth engagement which could be demonstrated by a relevant qualification in youth work, education, community development, related field or relevant experience
• Experience of delivering conservation, environmental or outdoor learning activities.
• Experience of supporting young people facing barriers to participation.
• Working knowledge of volunteer management systems.
• Knowledge of safeguarding legislation and best practice.
• Experience of monitoring and evaluating volunteering activities
Additional Information
• Due to the nature of the role, this post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
• The closing date for applications is 27/09/2026.
Networks for Nature is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the team
The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships.
The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.
Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve.
About this role
The Head of Engagement is a strategically significant and high-impact role within the Philanthropy team, responsible for leading and developing Impetus’ engagement programme across both volunteering and pro bono support.
At Impetus, volunteering refers to opportunities for employees of our donor firms to engage directly with the young people supported by our portfolio partners, helping to inspire, motivate and broaden horizons through meaningful interactions.
Pro bono support is a core element of our capacity-building approach and a key way in which we strengthen the organisations we back. It involves skilled volunteers and partners contributing professional expertise to address strategic challenges and opportunities within our charity portfolio, helping to build capability, resilience and long-term impact.
The Head of Engagement will shape the strategic direction and lead the delivery of a high-quality programme of volunteering and skilled pro bono support, creating meaningful outcomes for portfolio partners while delivering engaging and rewarding experiences for supporters. The postholder will ensure that engagement opportunities align with Impetus’ investment priorities and organisational objectives, respond to donor interests, and maximise impact for the young people and charities we serve.
The role combines strategic leadership, relationship management, programme innovation and operational oversight. Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment, and engaging regularly with Public Affairs and senior leaders, the Head of Engagement will build, steward and deepen relationships with a wide network of corporate partners, major donors, and highly skilled volunteers.
The postholder will also lead and develop the Engagement team, comprising the Engagement Manager and Engagement Officer, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture that enables exceptional delivery, continuous improvement and professional growth.
As a key member of the Philanthropy leadership team, the Head of Engagement will play a central role in expanding and strengthening Impetus' supporter network, developing innovative opportunities for supporters to contribute their time and expertise, and ensuring our volunteering and pro bono programmes continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of young people, charities and partners.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a critical area of Impetus’ work, harnessing the expertise, networks and commitment of supporters to help more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in school, work and life.
Key responsibilities
Strategy and Leadership
- Develop and deliver the engagement strategy and operational plan for the pro bono and volunteering functions
- Set and monitor KPIs, targets and budgets for engagement activity in line with organisational frameworks, securing approval from senior leadership where appropriate
- Lead the continued growth and development of volunteering and pro bono activity in alignment with organisational strategy and portfolio partner needs
- Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment to align engagement opportunities with organisational priorities
- Lead prospecting for the pro bono function, understanding the needs of our Investment Team and portfolio partners, identifying gaps in supporter skills and expertise and onboarding new organisations and specialisms
- As the organisational lead for volunteering and pro bono engagement, advise senior leadership on engagement trends, sharing insights, learning and volunteering best practice internally and externally
- Lead, develop and coach the Engagement Team, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture and ensuring clear objectives, development opportunities and succession planning
- Provide guidance, support and oversight of delivery to the Engagement Team, line managing the Engagement Manager and supporting the development of the Engagement Officer
Volunteering programme
- Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of a high-quality volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers value for portfolio partners, corporate and donor partners and young people.
- Oversee programme quality and effectiveness across all volunteering activities.
- Build capability and strong relationships with portfolio organisations to support the design and delivery of high-quality volunteering opportunities
- Monitor participation, impact and quality across the volunteering programme, using data and feedback to drive improvements.
- Work closely with account managers in the Philanthropy and Partnerships team to drive and steward donor engagement.
- Develop new models of volunteering in collaboration with the Engagement Team, including governance and trustee pathways, skills-based workshops and intensive challenge clinics.
Pro Bono programme
- Lead the development of the organisation’s pro bono programme and oversee the delivery of activities, ensuring high-quality support for portfolio partners.
- Set annual pro bono targets (including project value, number of projects, and supporter engagement) and lead the team to deliver on these
- Oversee the maintenance of a strong pipeline of projects from portfolio partners and supporters that meet the needs of portfolio partners.
- Source and cultivate new pro bono supporters, including companies and highly skilled individual professionals.
- Oversee and contribute to business development activity including prospect research, outreach, relationship building and partnership development.
- Steward existing strategic supporter relationships and create compelling supporter journeys that communicate impact and strengthen long-term engagement.
- Work closely with the Investment Team to identify, scope and prioritise pro bono projects, and work with the team to improve quality and impact in project delivery.
- Ensure an effective team approach to project identification, prioritisation and matching across the programme.
- For select high-priority projects, directly match portfolio partner needs with appropriate supporters, ensuring an effective and high-quality project experience, with support from the Engagement Manager.
- Support select high-priority project kick-off meetings and maintain oversight of project delivery, stakeholder management and follow-up processes.
- Ensure appropriate evaluation processes are in place to capture project impact, supporter feedback and learning.
- Own quality assurance, review programme outcomes and impact data to drive continuous improvement
- Collaborate with the Events team to design and run relevant supporter engagement events.
Relationship Management and Donor Engagement
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with both new and existing corporate partners, major donors, volunteers, pro bono supporters and charity / sector stakeholders.
- Lead strategic account management of donors and supporters.
- Act as a key Account Manager for strategic engagement partnerships, notably the most high-value Pro Bono relationships.
- Work closely with account managers and senior stakeholders to maximise supporter engagement and long-term partnership opportunities.
- Contribute to the creation of compelling communications and marketing materials that demonstrate the value and impact of engagement activity.
- Represent Impetus externally at meetings, events and networking opportunities building effective and inclusive partnerships.
Operations, Systems and Reporting
- Oversee the effective administration and operational delivery of the engagement function.
- Ensure accurate data management and reporting through Salesforce and related systems by the Engagement team.
- Maintain oversight of engagement pipelines, financial tracking and programme reporting.
- Lead quarterly reviews and reporting processes through the analysis and presentation of engagement data.
- Develop and improve systems, processes and operational efficiency across the engagement function.
- Ensure all activities comply with organisational policies, procedures and best practice.
Cross-Organisational Working
- Form part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Leads group to lead and drive performance against fundraising targets and strategy.
- Collaborate closely with the Investment Team to identify opportunities for volunteering and pro bono support, especially driving innovation for both programmes.
- Build strong internal relationships to ensure engagement activity is coordinated and effectively communicated across teams.
- Attend and support Impetus events where required.
- Represent the Philanthropy team on internal projects, working groups and committees.
- Support wider team priorities and contribute to a collaborative and inclusive working culture.
Person specification
Essential
- Excellent relationship management skills with experience across a range of sectors, and track record working productively with senior stakeholders in corporate and charity organisations, including internally.
- Strong business development skills, with experience identifying and developing new relationships, partnerships, and engagement opportunities.
- Experience translating strategic priorities into operational plans, objectives and delivery.
- Strong project and programme management skills, including managing multiple priorities, budgets, timelines and stakeholders.
- Experience and understanding of how to design and implement inclusive, accessible and engaging experiences for a range of audiences, including young people and corporate supporters.
- Experience managing line reports or leading teams including coaching, supporting and enabling others to deliver high-quality outcomes.
- Strong analytical and organisational skills.
- Ability to identify opportunities, solve complex problems and contribute innovative and creative ideas.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences internally and externally through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
- A collaborative and flexible working style with the ability to work cross-functionally.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Impetus.
- A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Experience working in, or closely with, the charity, youth, education or employment sectors.
Desirable
- In depth understanding of the corporate donor and philanthropy landscape.
- Experience in corporate fundraising or donor engagement, in particular with the financial services and investment sectors.
- Significant experience overseeing either a large corporate volunteering programme or a pro bono programme (e.g. 50+ projects).
- Experience working with Salesforce.
- Expertise in evaluation or impact measurement.
- In-depth understanding of the education and/or youth employment sectors in the UK.
About Impetus
At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.
We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:
- Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
- Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
- The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment
We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.
Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.
We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.
Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.
Our Values
In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
We are brave and curious
We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.
We bring high trust, high challenge
We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.
We are evidence led and results driven for young people
We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.
We thrive through diversity
We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.
We always seek collaboration
We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.
We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.
We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.
We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.
Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.
Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.
Our employee benefits
Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.
How to apply
Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.
You will need to:
- Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
- Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.
You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.
As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.
The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.
Interviews:
1st Interviews will take place on w/c 28th September 2026.
2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.
You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.
Personal Data
Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.
Impetus transforms the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by ensuring they get support to succeed in school, in work and in life.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have a passion for empowering young people and creating safer communities? Crimestoppers is seeking an enthusiastic and proactive Fearless Youth Coordinator to lead the delivery of its Fearless and Bystander Approach programmes across South Wales, helping young people understand the issues affecting them and make informed decisions about reporting crime. You will work directly with young people to address key issues such as violence and serious organised crime, while also evaluating programme impact, supporting awareness campaigns, developing resources and identifying opportunities to expand the reach of the service. With a strong focus on safeguarding, collaboration and community engagement, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting difference to the lives of young people across South Wales.
Please read the full job pack, before submitting your CV and covering letter.
FTC until March 2027 | Full time | Based in South Wales (Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Bridgend, Merthyr), with travel| £28,186 | DBS required
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
We are looking for a passionate and engaging Youth Engagement Officer to join our new Thriving Change Makers programme, supporting young people aged 14–20 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs) to develop their confidence, leadership skills and ability to create positive change in their communities.
You will build trusted relationships with young people, schools and community organisations, recruit participants and facilitate engaging Youth Social Action Hub sessions. You will mentor young people to identify issues that matter to them and turn their ideas into social action projects, campaigns and activities.
You will also help young people develop their leadership skills and access opportunities such as Youth Ambassador, peer leadership, advisory and governance roles, while ensuring participation is inclusive, safe, accessible and genuinely youth-led.
We are looking for someone with experience of working directly with young people and facilitating inclusive group activities, who can build positive relationships, provide effective mentoring and support young people to take ownership of their ideas. Experience of youth-led social action or community projects would be an advantage.
This is a great opportunity to join an exciting new programme and help young people find their voice, develop their potential and lead change in their communities.
Please see the attached Job Description and Person Specification for full details about the role and requirements.
What we offer:
- Generous annual leave entitlement - 28 days annual leave PLUS bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time staff)
- Flexible and hybrid working (dependent on role) to ensure you enjoy a good work-life balance.
- Christmas office closure
- Enhanced Sick Pay
- Pension scheme – 5% employee contribution, 3% employer contribution
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
Promoting a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
At CB Plus, we promote a diverse and inclusive workplace where we can all be ourselves. Everyone is treated fairly, individual differences are celebrated, and all employees are valued and respected. We actively encourage applications from disabled applicants, including those with mental health conditions, people from Global Majority and minoritised communities, and those with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.
We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria as outlined in the Disability Confident Scheme. However, in the event of a high number of applicants, it may not be possible to interview all candidates who meet these criteria, and we reserve the right to limit interviews to a manageable number.
We also have experience supporting Access to Work applications to ensure that employees who need adjustments have the support they need to feel confident and do their best in their roles.
If you need adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist you.
Please send a CV and covering letter setting out your interest in and suitability for the role:
- The CV should clearly state the names and periods/dates the candidate worked or volunteered for each organisation under their employment history and explain any gaps.
- The covering letter should address each point under the person specification showing how the candidate meets the person specification with examples from previous work or volunteering.
Please note we will only consider applications with both a CV and covering letter.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Are you passionate about empowering young people to break down barriers, gain independence, and achieve their career goals?
Volunteer Centre Kensington & Chelsea (VCKC) is looking for a dedicated Stepping Stones: XP Officer to join our team. In this delivery-focused role, you will provide person-centered, strengths-based support to young people aged 16–25 who identify as having Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND).
You will manage a small, targeted caseload, guiding participants through their journey from building initial confidence to securing inclusive volunteering placements, work experience, and paid employment.
Key Responsibilities
-
1-to-1 Caseload Support: Co-design realistic action plans, identify reasonable adjustments, and deliver tailored employment and volunteering readiness support.
-
Brokerage & Employer Engagement: Build strong relationships with local employers and volunteer-involving organisations to source safe, accessible placements.
-
Practical Guidance: Assist participants with CV writing, application forms, and work-readiness skills tailored to their unique needs.
-
Placement Monitoring: Provide light-touch, SEND-informed support to both participants and hosts to ensure placements are successful and sustainable.
-
Network & Resource Mobilisation: Connect clients with external support services, training opportunities, and grants for work clothing or tools.
What We Are Looking For
-
Relevant Experience: Proven track record of supporting young people (aged 16–25) or adults facing barriers to work, particularly those with SEND.
-
Strengths-Based Approach: Ability to deliver empowering, direct 1-to-1 support that builds confidence and self-advocacy.
-
Relationship Building: Experience working alongside employers and community organisations to champion inclusive practice.
-
Organisational Skills: High-level administrative abilities to manage time, maintain accurate client data, and handle record-keeping effectively within a part-time role.
-
Values-Driven: Strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, inclusion, and the values of VCKC.
(Note: Appointment is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check).
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing how your experience meets the criteria outlined in the person specification.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
An exciting opportunity!
This is a rare and genuinely exciting opportunity to lead the UK's only dedicated charity supporting children, adults and families affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related lysosomal storage disorders. Following the current Chief Executive's planned move to become Managing Director of Rare Disease Research Partners (RDRP) in January 2027, the incoming CEO will take the helm of an organisation with over forty years of history, a trusted national reputation and a growing role on the international rare disease stage. The successful candidate will shape the strategic vision for more than 1,800 families, oversee the close partnership between the Society and its research subsidiary RDRP, and champion the patient and family ethos that sits at the heart of the organisation's work. It is an opportunity to combine ambitious strategic leadership with deeply meaningful, human impact, working alongside a committed Board, Senior Leadership Team and wider community of clinicians, researchers and pharmaceutical partners.
As our next Chief Executive, you will
- Define and deliver the MPS Society’s strategic vision.
- Provide confident oversight of governance, finance, compliance and reporting.
- Effectively manage the operational alignment between the MPS Society and RDRP.
- Always keep the members and family voice at the heart of strategy, service design and decision-making.
- Build and maintain senior-level relationships with statutory bodies, government agencies, pharmaceutical partners, clinical expert centres and other key stakeholders to support the Society’s objectives, influence policy and practice, and protect its professional reputation.
- Act as a visible and credible public voice to raise awareness, improve visibility, support, treatment access and outcomes for people affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related conditions.
- Collaborate with other rare disease bodies, patient organisations and other key audiences.
- Lead and empower the senior leadership team through effective delegation, early involvement in strategic discussions, clear accountability and support for individuals to flourish.
- Encourage an open, supportive work environment allowing creativity and building staff confidence.
- Help shape the future of the MPS Society.
About you
- Self-motivated, with the drive to lead the organisation through a period of change and transition.
- Unquestionable probity and personal integrity, given the trust placed in the CEO by families, trustees and partners.
- Exemplary written and verbal communication skills, able to convey complex scientific and clinical information to audiences ranging from clinicians to families with no prior knowledge of MPS disorders.
- Strong self-awareness, with insight into their own leadership style and impact on others.
- Emotional resilience, able to sustain performance while supporting a community facing life limiting conditions.
- A collaborative and empowering leadership style, able to build trust, delegate effectively and help individuals across the organisation flourish.
- Genuine passion for the Society's mission, with a family and member-first ethos.
- Confidence to build relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, from beneficiaries and Trustees to politicians, media and pharmaceutical partners.
- A proactive, positive approach, comfortable reacting to change and organising their own work to meet deadlines.
- Confidence speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation and the people it represents.
Why join us?
A close-knit, values-led culture. With just over thirty staff across the Society and RDRP combined, this is a place where the CEO can know the team personally, work closely with families day-to-day, and see the direct results of decisions rather than managing at a distance through layers of bureaucracy.
- Genuine autonomy to shape direction. The Board is explicitly looking to the new CEO to bring fresh thinking on technology, AI, and digital tools, and to give real freedom to modernise fundraising, services, and engagement rather than simply maintaining what already exists.
- A stable foundation to build from over forty years of track record, trusted relationships and a strong national reputation mean the incoming CEO can focus energy on vision and growth rather than firefighting or rebuilding credibility from scratch.
- Proximity to cutting-edge science: the Society's close relationship with RDRP gives the CEO regular exposure to advances in rare disease research and treatment access, while day-to-day research leadership sits with the RDRP Managing Director, allowing the CEO to focus on strategy, people and sustainability.
- A high-visibility, high-influence platform. Regular contact with government, pharmaceutical companies, clinicians and international rare disease bodies offers strong opportunities to build a public profile and personal network well beyond the charity sector.
- A team that already shares the mission. Staff are described as passionate about the Society's aims, and as having a family-first ethos, so the new CEO inherits a culture to lead and empower rather than one that needs to be built from the ground up.
- Work with a different kind of return. Beyond salary and career progression, this role offers the less tangible reward of knowing that strategic and financial decisions translate, into better support for families facing some of the rarest conditions in the country.
Benefits
Join us and you will be working for a caring charity offering:
- A competitive salary
- Generous annual leave
- Extra leave between Christmas and the New Year
- Contributory pension
- Life assurance (subject to the conditions of the scheme)
- Employee assistance programme offering support 24/7
Further information
The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the UK.
The main duties, responsibilities and requirements of this role can be viewed in the job description on our website.
Salary to be agreed depending on experience and will be pro-rata for part time hours.
This is an essential car user post. The applicant must hold a current UK driver’s licence, with no more than 6 points, have access to a car and be able and willing to drive UK wide as required.
This senior role requires flexibility in working hours and location. It is primarily offered on a hybrid basis with a minimum of 2 days in our Amersham, Buckinghamshire, office each week. As part of the role, UK and overseas travel is necessary, which may on occasion include early morning and/or evening working and sometimes overnight stays. We have policies in place to ensure that any unsociable hours worked over the weekend are fairly compensated through TOIL.
This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS) details of which can be found in the job description.
For an informal discussion about the role or the work of the MPS Society, please contact Dr Fiona Stewart. Contact details can be found on the full job description. Kindly note, meetings with other relevant people will be available to shortlisted candidates at interview stage.
Please include your CV with a supporting statement of no more than 800 words. Your supporting statement should include an answer to the question below:
The MPS Society supports individuals and families affected by mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) and related disorders. What interests you about coming to work in this area, and what motivates you to contribute to supporting individuals and families affected by these conditions?
To transform lives through specialist knowledge, support and advocacy, and research.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We’re looking for a Training Officer to help us develop and deliver high quality learning and professional development for people working with and for young people across the North West.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys creating and delivering engaging training and supporting others to learn and grow.
Working with our Learning, Workforce Development & Equality Manager, you’ll help shape our learning offer and support a skilled, confident and connected youth sector workforce.
What you’ll be doing
-
Design and deliver engaging training and workshops (online and in person)
-
Build relationships with learners, partners and organisations
-
Support learning events, networks and Communities of Practice
-
Use feedback and evaluation to improve what we do
We’re looking for someone who has:
-
experience of training, facilitation or learning and development
-
confidence delivering engaging sessions to different audiences
-
good communication and organisational skills
-
an understanding of youth work or the issues affecting young people
-
a commitment to equality, inclusion and safeguarding
More information in attached recruitment pack - closing date Monday 21 Sep 2026 @ 12 pm
Interviews will be held in person on Tuesday 29 September 2026.
To benefit the lives of young people in the North West of England by providing opportunities for them to engage and become active citizens.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.