Children services director jobs in kilmarnock, south ayrshire council

About the role

We’re recruiting for a Head of Retail Operations for our Southern Division. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of driving success within five regions, leading a team of dedicated Regional Managers across 85 shops with around 270 colleagues.

This isn’t just about overseeing operations – it’s about owning them. You’ll have the freedom and autonomy to shape the strategy for your division, making key decisions on everything from financial performance to people development. You’ll build a values-led, inclusive culture – one where our people feel appreciated, respected and supported.

As part of the senior leadership team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of Mind Retail, bringing fresh ideas and driving initiatives that make a real impact. And because every pound we make in our shops helps support Mind’s mission, the work you do will have a lasting and meaningful impact.

This is a role for an ambitious leader – someone ready to take ownership, think strategically and inspire a team to do great things.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is a natural leader, passionate about creating high-performing teams and building an inclusive culture
• Has senior-level experience leading multi-site, large-scale retail operations and knows how to drive commercial success
• Understands retail finances inside out, from managing P&L’s, to spotting opportunities for growth
• Thinks strategically, but isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and make things happen
• Embodies our values and behaviours

Ready to make a difference?

Join Mind Retail. Join the fight for mental health.

Due to our commitment to work/life balance, you must live within reasonable travelling distance of the division. The geography of the division covers the South East, South West, South Wales, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Mind Retail reserve the right to close the vacancy to applications earlier, should we receive a high volume of strong candidates. Therefore we encourage an early application.

About our benefits

As Head of Operations, you’ll receive:

• A competitive salary of £59,753 per year
• A company car
• A strong commitment to work-life balance with a working pattern that supports this, with the occasional weekend working
• 25 days’ paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays
• Development workshops & courses, to help build your career
• Comprehensive, personalised induction programmes, tailored to your role when you join us
• A huge variety of additional qualifications & development programmes for anyone looking to grow their skills
• Family friendly policies & enhanced pay
• A competitive pension scheme & life assurance, available to all our employees
• 25% staff discount in all Mind shops
• Access to exclusive discounts at over 160 retailers through our employee savings app
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Interest free season ticket loan

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating an income of around £25 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we’re going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve. There’s never been a more exciting time to join us.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We value the power of diversity. We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We are creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is appreciated for being authentic and bringing their whole selves to work.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working with us to share this commitment. In line with our Safer Recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to provide references and will be expected to undertake an enhanced DBS check with a check of the Children's Barred List and/or ‘Work with Adults' workforce check based on their role and responsibilities. A DBS check is a process to check someone's criminal record (if they have any). A Barred List is a list of people who are barred from working with children. To enable you to predetermine what might be disclosed in your DBS check, please use this disclosure calculator.

Mind Retail is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applicants from all communities. We are committed to the fair treatment of our staff, potential staff and volunteers, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, age, physical/mental disability or offending background.

This job vacancy is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. 

More details

For more information and a full person specification, please review the job description.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to Beat Macular Disease forever.

This exciting role is responsible for delivering income from a range of donors and prospects, with a focus on trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources, as well as HNWI. We are looking for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser with a proven track record of raising significant funds from charitable trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources as well as HNWI, who, alongside our existing team, will help to grow and develop this area of fundraising for the Macular Society. The post holder will have a proven eye for detail, an analytical nature, first class relationship management skills and a flair for writing successful applications.

In return, we provide a great working culture – we do something worthwhile and are proud to work together to Beat Macular Disease – as recognised by our inclusion in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023 list. 

We offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one years’ service, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and 6% pension contribution.

We are passionate about treating people fairly and as equals, doing so is instinctive to us. To Beat Macular Disease for all we know we have work to do. That’s why we are keen to hear from people of all backgrounds who have the skills and experience we are looking for. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups, to help ensure what we do and how we do it is inclusive – for everyone.

We are looking for an experienced Trust Fundraiser with a background in securing income from charitable trusts and foundations to join our team to help Groundswell continue to create positive change in the lives of people, services and systems on their mission to tackle homeless health inequalities. Recently kicking off our new ‘Creating Positive Change’ strategy, coproduced by over 130 staff, volunteers, clients and partners, we have ambitious plans and a compelling model which in its simplest form promotes healthier lives and a better future for anyone who has experienced homelessness.  

The successful post holder will have experience in leading the development of well-written, compelling proposals and reports to charitable trusts and corporate foundations; demonstrating key relationship management skills to ensure all our funders feel part of Groundswell’s mission. You will be a flexible worker with strong organisational, research and written communication skills. You will pride yourself in collaborative working to ensure the most successful chance of securing income, whilst being a self-starter who can manage their own workload effectively.

Are you a focused individual with an analytical mindset, seeking new challenges where you can showcase your expertise as an experienced Technical Business Analyst?

If so, we invite you to apply to this unique opportunity and become a vital part of our team. Make a difference in a growing healthcare organisation and help us enhance the client journey for over 110,000 clients annually.

�� Location:  Hybrid/remote (expectation to travel to key national sites as business requires)

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

�� Salary: Starting from £53,608.48 - £58,969.32 dependant on experience

What is a Technical Business Analyst?

As a Technical Business Analyst, you will lead the analysis, design, prioritisation, and implementation of process and technical changes to enhance business operations and services. Your role involves identifying improvement opportunities, leveraging technology (including automation), defining costs and benefits, and establishing success metrics. You will manage DDaT-enabled process improvements.

Your objective is to enhance the client journey, from small pathway changes to large technical projects and process improvements. You’ll collaborate closely with Product Owners, Project Managers, Business Intelligence, IT, Digital teams, Governance, Contact Centre, Clinical colleagues, Clinical Safety, Learning & Development, Global Information Services, and other stakeholders, including board-level directors.

What can we offer you?

• �� Expenses incurred while traveling outside your base location will be reimbursed.
• �� Birthday Bonus with an additional day of annual leave dedicated to celebrating your birthday and long service recognition rewards programme
• �� Perks and discounts at over 4000 retail and hospitality outlets through the Blue Light Card

In addition to the perks outlined above, there are many more benefits alongside what is written above for you to enjoy. Find out more during your interview!

What you’ll be doing:

• Identify and assess challenges or opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with healthcare colleagues to map workflows and ensure technology solutions meet clinical needs.
• Design systems that enhance client safety, experience, and satisfaction.
• Facilitate seamless integration of new solutions with existing clinical systems.
• Support staff in adopting new technologies through training and assistance.
• Define success metrics to track improvements in client pathways.
• Communicate between clinical staff, IT, and other teams to integrate new solutions.
• Collect and align business and user requirements for new systems.
• Document how new solutions will integrate with existing systems.
• Ensure new systems enhance patient experience and care delivery.
• Establish KPIs to measure the effectiveness of new systems.
• Evaluate risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Use data-driven insights to prioritise features and deliver value.

What we’re looking for:

• An experienced Technical Business Analyst with a strong understanding of Agile principles and iterative approaches.
• Skilled in identifying, analysing, and communicating business problems.
• Utilise AI and automation for process enhancements.
• Lead process changes and support implementation.
• Strong risk management skills.
• Build and maintain effective stakeholder relationships.
• Apply strategic thinking with strong technical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Find simple solutions for complex issues.
• Expertise in all stages of the agile lifecycle.
• Present technical information clearly to non-IT staff.
• Understand digital trends, especially AI and automation.
• Willingness to work outside core hours (including weekends) and travel as needed.

We are looking to appoint an exceptional individual to join our team of six Strategic Partnership Advisors across England. In this role, you will support key partners, including Active Partnerships, National Governing Bodies of Sport, local authorities, and leisure providers to become more effective in their role of enabling more disabled people to be active.

You will possess a strong understanding of the sport and activity sector, including its operations, and be able to advocate for improvements that help more disabled people become active. Additionally, you will be aware of the broader systems and barriers that disabled people encounter in sports and activities, as well as organisations such as disabled people’s user-led organisations and various charities, to build relationships and foster effective cross-sector partnerships.

We are looking for an individual with experience of working strategically at a place based and/or locality level within the South West region. Someone who can positively influence local developments, systems and investments to tackle the inequalities disabled people face in sport and activity through inclusive practice.

The successful candidate will work remotely from home and be based in the South West region. This role will involve travel across the region and occasional travel to our Loughborough and Manchester offices.

This role is full-time (36 hours) and permanent.

We offer 26.5 days of annual leave, including birthday leave, plus bank holidays. Activity Alliance also closes between Christmas and New Year which means that employees are not expected to work during this time and they are not required to use their annual leave allowance to have this time free from work.

Activity Alliance currently offers the following benefits:

• Hybrid working
• Time off in lieu
• A contributory pension scheme (employee 6%, employer 9%)
• Childcare vouchers
• Cycle to work scheme
• Eye care
• Employee engagement initiatives such as away days
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme
• Menopause policy
• Enhanced sickness pay
• Group Income Protection
• Death in service
• Training and development opportunities

Advocacy Manager

Location – Remote from the UK with regular travel to Manchester and London

Starting Salary - £40,416 per annum (plus contributory pension)

MAG saves lives and builds futures by working with others to reclaim land contaminated with the debris of conflict, to reduce the daily risk of death or injury for civilians, and to create safe and secure conditions for development. MAG shared the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize as a founding member of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines for our work to ban landmines. Our vision is a safe and secure future for men, women and children affected by armed violence and conflict. 

We are looking for an exceptional Advocacy Manager to work within our Policy and Strategic Partnerships team.  This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic international charity that shared the 1997 Nobel Peace-Prize.

You will be working with the Director of Policy and Strategic Partnerships in the development and delivery of MAG’s advocacy work, including leadership of MAG’s UK parliamentary engagement, and contribution to the European and US engagement strategies.

The successful candidate will have previous experience of engaging and influencing UK parliamentarians, including the House of Commons and House of Lords, in support of advocacy objectives through a variety of tactics. You will have up-to-date knowledge of the UK political scene, and key players for MAG’s focus areas, knowledge of UK parliamentary processes and influencing tactics. You will also have a proven track record of meeting targets and deadlines and an ability to build, manage and develop relationships with key stakeholders. Excellent coordination and communication skills will also be essential.

The role will involve travel in the UK and Internationally.

What you can expect in return: 

· Competitive salary 

· 25 days annual leave per year, plus public holidays. 

· Company pension (matching at 5%

· Employee Assistance Programme: MAG offers free access to Health Assured, a service providing 24/7 confidential support and expert advice on a wide range of issues. 

Further information and how to apply:

For the further information on the role, the application pack and details of how to apply, please visit the MAG website by the closing date of 5th May 2025.

Application is by submission of the following documents to humanresources [@] maginternational [.] org by the closing date of 5th May 2025:

1. Up-to-date CV

2. Cover letter, setting out why you believe you are suitable for this position, and how you feel you align to MAG Values.

3. Completed Candidate Profile Form

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, we cannot respond to every application. If you have not heard back from us within 3 weeks of applying, your application has not been successful.

Please note that as part of MAG's commitment to safeguarding, this post is subject to background checks before an offer of employment is confirmed. For more information on MAG’s approach to safeguarding here and background checks here. You can also find more information in the candidate information pack, available on our website.

MAG is committed to the principles of diversity, equality and inclusion. If you think you would be suited to one of our roles we would welcome your application regardless of your background. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive working environment where all employees feel respected and supported in fulfilling their potential.

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Brain Tumour Research is determined to change this. 

Their vision is to find a cure for all types of brain tumours. To achieve their mission, they are looking for a Community Fundraiser who will proactively engage with supporters, community groups and volunteers across the West Midlands to join their team of 12 Community Fundraisers across the UK.

The Community Fundraiser (West Midlands) is responsible for providing support and guidance to fundraisers within their communities to achieve their ambitions and ultimately raise vital funds for Brain Tumour Research. This is achieved through a wide variety of activities such as helping supporters to make the most of their own fundraising, engaging participants with externally organised events such as the Great Birmingham Run, and encouraging communities to get involved in events organised by Brain Tumour Research such as Wear a Hat Day and Walk for Hope. The Community Fundraiser will be the face of Brain Tumour Research in the area, providing excellent stewardship to existing supporters, and building great relationships with new supporters.

This post has been vacant since Autumn, and as such needs a fundraiser with confidence and capability in fundraising to join the team, provide donor love to the loyal supporters in the area, and approach developing the areas potential with energy and enthusiasm. If you have fundraising experience and are keen to join a charity with ambition and an amazing supporter base, then this could be the role for you.

Please note the successful candidate will need to live within the region (Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Gloucestershire), have access to a car and be willing to travel around their region. If you are not currently based in this area, please clarify if you have plans to relocate.  

Application notes 

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please follow instructions in the pack to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call. 

As this role has been vacant for some time, we are running rolling interview to see suitable candidates as they apply. Interviews will be kept to one stage, and organised to suit the candidate, where possible. Don’t delay – apply today! 

About Respect  

Respect is a pioneering UK membership organisation in the domestic abuse sector.  Founded in 2000, we have built our expertise over the last 23 years in what was then a fledgling sector and recently have seen significant and rapid growth.     

Respect supports frontline organisations across the UK, so that together we can end domestic abuse.  Our work is wide ranging: we offer accreditation of specialist services; we provide training for individuals and organisations working in the sector; we work in partnership with others to innovate and develop practice;  we provide two helplines to enable service users to get the help and advice they need; we lobby influencers to improve policy and practice; we support up-to-date research undertaken by specialists in the field; and we fundraise to ensure important work continues to happen. 

Respect has seen rapid growth over the last few years, and we now have 60+ staff running a range of projects and core activities and have ambitious plans for further growth and influence. 

Our vision   

We want a world where everyone is free from domestic abuse. Where it is never ok to control, harm or cause fear. Where those who perpetrate domestic abuse are stopped, held to account and given the chance to change.    

Our mission   

We work with our members, partners and allies to stop the harms done by those who perpetrate domestic abuse.  With innovative practice, robust research and quality data, we build evidence of what works, promote safe, effective practice and drive high standards.  We use our voice, in collaboration with others, to call for a response to domestic abuse that matches the scale of the problem.  We will not stop, until domestic abuse stops.    

Our Focus   

Respect was founded to focus on perpetrators of domestic abuse and this, including our vital work with young people who cause harm, will remain our key priority.  Our work with male victims will continue as an important, distinct, project.    

Our Values   

• Pioneering - We explore innovative ideas and develop new approaches with curiosity and rigour.   
   

• Collaborative - We work in partnership with our members, partners and allies to bring about individual, societal and systems change.   
   

• Accountable- We listen to survivors and centre their needs in our work.  We hold perpetrators to account for their behaviour and hold ourselves and our members accountable for ours.   
   

• Respectful - We live up to our name.  We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all that we do.  We are honest, compassionate and boldly challenge injustice.    

Make a Change 

Make a Change is a community-wide, early response approach to people using abusive behaviours (or who are concerned that they might be) towards a current or ex-partner. The model has been developed by Respect in partnership with Women’s Aid Federation England, drawing inspiration from their Change that Lasts approach. It includes three strands: expert support programme for perpetrators with parallel support for survivors, workforce development and community outreach.

Improving the safety, freedom and wellbeing of adult and child survivors of domestic abuse is a key outcome for our work with perpetrators.  The Make a Change model is a multi-partner project offering local areas a framework for delivering perpetrator work. Where feasible, we aim to establish partnerships with local survivor domestic abuse service to deliver parallel support for survivors (referred to as Integrated Support Service) as part the expert support strand.

Purpose of the role: 

The Senior Communications and Policy Officer will work with the Make a Change team at Respect to advance the development of communication and policy activities for the Make a Change model in project sites and nationally to encourage uptake in new areas. They will also work with Respect’s Communications and Influence leads to ensure alignment with the organisation's broader messaging and advocacy efforts, maximising the impact of Make a Change initiatives. The postholder will lead on developing and implementing communication strategies and plans in partnership with our delivery partners across the sites.

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and across all protected characteristics1, particularly from people from the following under-represented groups: 

• Black and minoritised people 

• Disabled people 

We always welcome and support applications from those who have personal experience of domestic abuse. 

Please follow the link to find out more. 

We're on the lookout for a seasoned pro who knows their way around the software development and project management lifecycle—if that sounds like you, keep reading!

�� Location: Hybrid (expectation to travel for team days/as business requires)

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

�� Salary: Starting from £64,866.26 - £71,352.88 dependent on experience and location

What is a Head of Digital, Data and Technology? 

As the Head of DDaT Portfolio Delivery, you will leverage your extensive experience and deep understanding of the technical project lifecycle and key delivery methodologies. Proficiency in Agile, Scrum, DevOps, and Waterfall frameworks is essential for effective governance and optimisation of complex project portfolios.

This role offers a unique opportunity to apply your skills and passion for change in a growing healthcare organisation, supporting over 110,000 clients annually.

You will collaborate closely with various heads of departments and colleagues across the business to ensure all DDaT deliveries are strategically aligned, rigorously tested, delivered on time and within budget, and fully adopted by the business. This role drives seamless execution from small enhancements to large-scale projects, enhancing the client journey, operational efficiency, and business impact for MSI UK.

What can we offer you?

• �� Expenses incurred while traveling outside your base location will be reimbursed.
• �� Birthday Bonus with an additional day of annual leave dedicated to celebrating your birthday and long service recognition rewards programme 
• �� Perks and discounts at over 4000 retail and hospitality outlets through the Blue Light Card

In addition to the perks outlined above, there are many more benefits alongside what is written above for you to enjoy. Find out more during your interview!

What you’ll be doing:

The role of the Head of DDaT Portfolio Delivery will have:

• Deep understanding of software development, IT infrastructure, DevOps, Agile, and Scrum practices, with experience in AI, ML, RPA, UX, design, end-user testing, and requirements gathering.
• Ability to analyse complex problems, devise solutions, and make informed decisions under pressure.
• Identify risks, implement mitigation strategies, and ensure projects stay on track.
• Ensure deliverables meet standards through effective QA and testing protocols, with continuous monitoring and evaluation.
• Comprehensive understanding of project lifecycles, tailoring Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall methodologies for timely, budget-compliant delivery.
• Capable of troubleshooting technical issues and understanding software or product development intricacies.
• Expertise in system architecture, DevOps, risk management, ITIL, technical documentation, and programming languages.
• Oversee testing quality internally and with vendors, ensuring robust methodologies and evidence collection.
• Familiarity with technologies used, capable of troubleshooting technical issues.

What we’re looking for:

• Extensive experience delivering complex digital and tech-enabled programs, with deep knowledge of healthcare technology ecosystems (e.g., NHS Digital, EPRs, FHIR, GDPR, DSPT).
• Proficient in Agile, Scrum, DevOps, SAFe, Lean, and Waterfall, ensuring efficient delivery across cross-functional teams.
• Proven leadership in digital/data/technology strategy, including authoring and presenting strategic documents to executive teams.
• Skilled in developing and deploying client-facing digital solutions (e.g., portals, remote monitoring, digital health apps), ensuring compliance, usability, and smooth go-live transitions.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and vendor management skills, including RFPs and procurement via NHS frameworks (G-Cloud, Digital Marketplace).
• Expertise in demand and capacity planning for DDaT, aligning delivery with business needs, compliance, and budget.
• Experienced in BI and data strategy projects, including integration, analytics, automation, and emerging technologies (RPA, AI, ML).
• Able to gather technical requirements aligned with business goals and system capabilities.
• Skilled in measuring ROI on tech initiatives using KPIs and cost-benefit analysis.
• Strong project management skills across the full lifecycle, blending PRINCE2 governance with Agile and Waterfall delivery.
• Experienced in Agile product development—from strategy to launch—and translating complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Deep knowledge of emerging digital trends and their strategic applications.
• Flexible to travel and work outside core hours as required.
• Established and led PMO practices to ensure strategic alignment, risk management, resource planning, and continuous improvement.

Research Associate - National Youth Agency

Contract: 12-month Fixed Term Contract (with potential to extend)
Hours: Full-time - 37 hours per week 
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 per annum, dependent on experience
Remote: This role is 100% homebased with occasional travel for staff residentials and other events.

What we do

As the national body for youth work, the NYA has a dual function. We are the professional statutory and regulatory body (PSRB) responsible for qualifications, quality standards, and safeguarding for youth work and services in England. In line with our charity mission and aims, we also champion youth work through research, advocacy, campaigns, and programmes.

We work in partnership and believe in collaborative leadership, listening to youth workers and the youth work sector so that we can understand their needs and respond to the challenges they face. We are ambitious for youth work and for young people and integrate youth voice and influence across our work

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Knowledge Team, working alongside two existing Research Associates and a Data Analyst. 

You will be integral in delivering research, data, and insights that support organisational development and programme delivery across NYA.

We are looking for an experienced mixed-methods researcher with a strong understanding of social research and evaluation approaches. Ideally, you will have experience working in or alongside the youth sector and be confident using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

You’ll need to be flexible, proactive, and a strong communicator, able to explain complex ideas to varied audiences. 

This role is ideal for someone looking to make a tangible difference through evidence-led approaches that shape policy, practice, and impact in youth work.

Key responsibilities for this role will include:

• Designing and delivering research projects using a range of methods including surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Supporting the development of the NYA research and data hub, including external research collation and data visualisation.
• Leading on evaluations to meet funder requirements and contribute to NYA’s growing evidence base.
• Analysing data from NYA programmes to support impact measurement.
• Promoting evidence-based practice across NYA and the wider youth sector.
• Communicating findings clearly through reports, briefings, and presentations.
• Managing research projects and collaborating with internal and external partners to deliver on time and to quality.
• Responding to internal and external research enquiries.

The ideal candidate will have experience in social research, familiarity with various research methodologies, and the ability to communicate complex findings to diverse audiences. 

Please refer to our Candidate Pack for more information on the role and the requirements.

Why Work for NYA?

NYA operates as a people-first organisation, prioritising the well-being and needs of its employees.

NYA offers an exceptional flexible working approach which encourages our team to balance professional responsibilities with their personal life.

A remote based team, spread across England, fostering inclusivity and diverse talent. Despite geographical distances between team members, NYA maintains a highly motivated and connected team through the optimisation of digital tools.

NYA is committed to supporting the continual personal and professional development of our team and helping them achieve their ambitions.

We provide 25 days leave plus 8 days, life assurance scheme, 5% employer pension contribution and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme via Spectrum.life with unlimited specialist support available to all NYA employees.

How to Apply:

Please download our applicant pack to find out more about the role and requirements

To apply, please submit the following via our online application platform by 11:59pm on Monday 12th May 2025:

A detailed CV setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements in line with the person specification in the About You section. 

A covering letter (maximum two sides) highlighting your suitability for the role and how you meet the requirements in the

About You section. 

We will request data for our EEDI monitoring purposes, providing this is optional.

Please note: the covering letter is an essential part of the application process and will be assessed as part of your full application. We use AI detector software, so cover letters or CV’s with over 30% AI generated content with be disregarded. We understand that AI tools can offer support to candidates who have learning differences, which is why we will accept applications with some AI assistance. CV’s will not be accepted without a cover letter.

The National Youth Agency is an equal opportunities employer. 

At NYA our inclusive culture means that we embrace individual differences and understand that we need a diverse team to achieve our organisations mission. 

We wish to recruit candidates from all backgrounds to ensure our team reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, religion, socio-economic background and political beliefs but we particularly welcome applications from global majority candidates and those from other minoritised ethnic groups in the UK as they are currently underrepresented in our team.

Youth Work changes lives

Which is why we’re committed to ensuring that as many young people as possible get to benefit from it. As the national body for youth work in England, the National Youth Agency (NYA) exists to champion its transformative power.  We believe all young people should have the opportunity to benefit from the life-changing impact of extraordinary youth workers and trained volunteers.

We help to grow youth work provision in ways that keep it effective, relevant, safe and engaging, to help millions of young people reach their potential and thrive. We do this by providing guidance, support, advice, training and staff development opportunities for youth workers and youth work organisations. At the heart of everything we do are young people themselves. We work hard to ensure their voices are integrated into all our work, to develop provision that truly meets their needs.

REF-221126

About Free to Run

Free to Run’s mission is to advance gender equity globally through running. We are a registered nonprofit/nongovernmental organization that has been operating community-led programs for adolescent girls and young women since 2014. We are known for delivering long-term, youth-led, progressive running, leadership, rights, and health programs directly to girls and young women living in protracted conflict zones. However, the longer-term impact of our work is building enduring social change - decreasing barriers to public participation, increasing women in leadership, and making power structures more equitable and inclusive. Free to Run identifies as an organization working at the intersections of feminism, human rights, development, and humanitarian interventions.

The organization is in a position of significant growth, in terms of our strategy, reach, impact, and operating budget. In 2024, we embarked on a new three-year strategic plan that positions us to reach 50,000 people by 2026. We will meet this goal through our work across three strategic pillars: direct service (EMPOWER), capacity building for local, women-led NGOs (EQUIP), and building a global movement of activists who are passionate about gender equity and running (MOVE).

Position Overview

A new role within the organization, the Philanthropy Officer, Trusts and Foundations is responsible for identifying, building, and managing a (new) portfolio of trust, foundation, and grant funders from identification to stewardship, developing high-quality proposals, budgets, and reports. Alongside ownership of this portfolio, the Philanthropy Officer, Trusts and Foundations will support the broader Free to Run team with prospect research and assist with applications and reports for institutional/transformational funders.

This position offers a high degree of flexibility and would suit a proactive self-starter with a strong ability to self-manage to achieve goals and a demonstrated passion for the work of Free to Run.  This is a unique opportunity for an experienced trusts and foundations fundraiser to build and grow a new, high-potential portfolio from the ground up, with strong support from program and leadership teams.

While some support for larger institutional grants is part of the role, we are particularly seeking applicants with experience managing and growing portfolios of charitable trusts, private foundations, or family foundations, rather than institutional grant management alone.

This role reports to the Director of Development and Communications and is a part-time (20 hours per week), fully remote position. While Free to Run is registered in the U.S., our team is based around the world.

Core Accountabilities
 

1. Create and manage a portfolio of trust and foundation donors at the four- to five-figure level (60%)

• Take primary responsibility for developing, growing, and building strong relationships with a portfolio of trust/foundation/grant funders through the full donor cycle.

• Take an active role in meeting and exceeding annual income targets by developing strategies to maximize foundation and grant funding, regularly assessing progress, and reporting to senior management.

• Develop a formal pipeline of foundation funding opportunities for Free to Run

• Develop compelling, high-quality funding applications tailored to donor requirements, leveraging program data and impact narratives.

• Work with the Programs team to oversee budget tracking and reporting requirements for grants, ensuring accurate fund allocation, compliance with donor requirements, and timely submission of financial and impact reports.

• Collaborate with the global Free to Run team to identify and develop new funding opportunities and projects

2.  Support the process of donor qualification and prospect research (15%)

• Use research tools to support the ED and Development Team with in-depth prospect research profiles for individual major donor prospects, family foundations, and other prospective funders

3. Provide support to the Free to Run team with institutional grant applications (20%)

• Monitor grant tracking tools to identify and qualify new opportunities for institutional or transformational grants

• Keep up to date with the funder landscape and giving trends across multiple geographies 

• Support the ED and Programs with the development of grant applications, project budgets, or other related materials where needed

• Work with internal stakeholders to lead organizational grant tracking within the donor database (EveryAction), ensuring accurate documentation of all interactions, proposals, and gifts.

4.  Engage with the Free to Run Team (5%)

• Participate in weekly 1 on 1 meetings with manager

• Participate in performance planning, goal setting, and evaluation activities

• Liaise with key staff across functions of this position

• Attend team meetings and participate in strategic planning and evaluation meetings

Location

• This is a fully remote position that can be carried out from anywhere in the world. Travel may be required occasionally to attend fundraising events or organizational/donor meetings.
• For candidates outside the U.S., this role will be offered as an independent contractor position, allowing for flexible working hours and location.

Working Hours

• This position is a part-time role at 20 hours/week. The role offers a high degree of flexibility, although working hours may occasionally fluctuate outside regular core hours to attend meetings across time zones. 

Compensation

• The full-time equivalent (FTE) salary for this role is $45,000–$50,000 USD per year (approximately £35,500–£39,500 GBP based on current exchange rates). The actual salary will be pro rata based on 50% FTE, i.e., $22,500–$25,000 per year, and will be paid in USD.

Experience and Competencies

Below is what we are looking for as we evaluate applications.  Candidates don’t need to have all these experiences and competencies but should be able to display strengths across multiple areas. 

Language: 

• English (full fluency required, written and spoken)

Experience

• 3+ years of experience successfully managing a portfolio of charitable trusts, private or family foundations, or similar funders, with a proven track record of securing and stewarding gifts in the $5,000–$100,000 range

• Direct experience crafting tailored funding applications, budgets, and impact reports for US, UK, or international philanthropic funders, in collaboration with Programs teams

• Confidence in independently managing the full donor lifecycle — from prospecting and cultivation to application, reporting, and stewardship

• A demonstrable track record of developing long-term relationships with grantmakers or major donors

• Experience in prospect identification and research using relevant tools and databases

• Familiarity with the funding and donor landscape in the UK, EU, North America, and/or MENA region

• Experience using a CRM system for fundraising (EveryAction or similar) to manage donor records, track proposals, and support donor stewardship

Skills and Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to write compelling and persuasive cases for support

• Ability to effectively convey the impact of social justice, gender equity, and the power of running, hiking, and outdoor sport in driving positive change

• Ability to think creatively and spot opportunities for new or increased funding

• A results-oriented mindset with the ability to self-organize, meet deadlines, and deliver on goals

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with people from diverse racial, ethnic, geographic, religious, sexual orientation, gender, and generational backgrounds

• Interest in international girls’, women’s, and human rights or running/outdoor sports 

Free to Run is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We don’t just accept differences — we celebrate, support and thrive on them for the benefit of our team, our programs, and our organizational strength. We are proud to be an affirmative action employer, committed to diversity, equity and inclusion of ALL people in our hiring and employment practices. We encourage applications from people who have non-dominant identities based on race, ethnicity, migration status, ability, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, etc.

Vacancy Reference: BfN2026/01

Job Title: Finance Assistant

Salary: £13.52 per hour

Number of Posts: 1

Type of Contract: Fixed Term for 1 year

Start Date: ASAP

Hours of Work: Minimum 21 per week (possibility to increase)

Working Pattern: Must include core hours on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday and times when interaction with members of wider team is possible.

Work Location: Remote (If located in West of Scotland – hybrid work also available)

Responsible to: Finance & Systems Manager

Closing Date: 29/04/2025

Proposed Interview Date: We will shortlist and interview while the vacancy is being advertised and reserve the right to withdraw the advert if a suitable applicant is recruited prior to the closing date.

Job Information: The Finance Assistant will provide efficient and accurate support by inputting financial records, ensuring smooth financial operations and generating and analysing reports using Sage and Excel. This is an excellent opportunity for a hard-working colleague to make a difference and further develop skills and experience in charity finance within a supportive and values-driven organisation.

About the role

You will be based in the North East and as a key part of our schools team, help to lead, support and advise the regional team of school Pathways Coordinators, embedding the MCR programme in schools in the region.  You’ll need to be highly motivated to ensure that all care-experienced young people and those experiencing disadvantage are supported to find, grow and use their individual talents and that their education, employment choices and life changes outcomes are maximised.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide support, development, training, management and motivation to MCR staff in schools

• Support school integration of the programme and a consistently high quality standard of programme delivery

• Develop and support partnerships with the Local Councils, further and higher education institutions, local business and all MCR stakeholders

• Provide analysis of programme performance, impact and development

About you

• Experience of developing and effectively managing teams and programmes

• Self-motivated and skilled at motivating others

• Experience of or strong interest in working or volunteering in the third sector

• Experience of working within or in collaboration with secondary schools

• Excellent communication and presentation skills

• Attention to detail and ability to prioritise

About us

MCR Pathways is an award-winning charity established in Glasgow in 2007.  Our mentoring programme is now delivered in schools across the whole of Scotland as well as South East England.  We are delighted that we are now launching the MCR programme in the North East of England and we are committed to helping the region’s most vulnerable young people gain self-confidence, identify their skills and recognise and fulfil their potential. Our vision is for all young people to experience equality of education outcomes, career opportunities and life chances.  Our mentoring programme has profound impacts on school pupils in their confidence, wellbeing and post-school progression. MCR Mentors are volunteers who make and experience a life-changing difference.  You will be joining a friendly and supportive team who love what they do and enjoy working with each other.  We model our values and many of us are also mentors ourselves.

Benefits of working for MCR Pathways include:  33 days annual leave in first year rising to 38 days from 2nd year of employment, additional day off for your birthday,  Life Assurance - 4 x salary,  Living Pension Employer.

Are you an experienced product manager with excellent people leadership skills, seeking a challenge where you can make a real difference?

�� Location: Hybrid (expectation to travel for team days/as business requires)

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

�� Salary: Starting from £64,866.26 - £71,352.88 dependant on experience

What is the Head of Product?

The Head of Product Management is a newly established role at MSI UK, responsible for driving product management through strategic business analysis and leadership. You will have extensive experience in this, or a similar role applying your product leadership experience to shape digital strategy, develop impactful healthcare products, and guide a team of 6 Product Owners.

The vision for Product Management in MSI UK as a healthcare organisation ensures digital, data, and technology solutions are strategically aligned, user-centric, and drive operational efficiency. This is a unique opportunity to apply your product expertise in a growing and critical healthcare organisation, driving the strategy and development of core digital products. In this role, you will shape impactful solutions that support over 110,000 clients annually.

The Head of Product Management will lead the Product Function with an iterative and agile approach, optimising operations by streamlining manual and complex processes. This role focuses on delivering intuitive, user-friendly digital platforms that enhance the client experience and drive business efficiency.

What can we offer you?

• �� Expenses incurred while traveling outside your base location will be reimbursed.
• �� Birthday Bonus with an additional day of annual leave dedicated to celebrating your birthday and long service recognition rewards programme
• �� Perks and discounts at over 4000 retail and hospitality outlets through the Blue Light Card

In addition to the perks outlined above, there are many more benefits alongside what is written above for you to enjoy. Find out more during your interview!

What you’ll be doing:

The Head of Product Management will drive the growth and maturity of a newly established team, ensuring digital products and services support healthcare delivery. This role shapes and executes a product strategy aligned with MSI UK's mission to enhance client care through innovative, user-centered, and data-driven digital solutions.

Responsibilities include:

• Define and communicate a product vision that aligns with strategic healthcare objectives.
• Lead the development, launch, and continuous improvement of digital solutions.
• Build partnerships, negotiate terms, and ensure vendors meet expectations and legal standards.
• Partner with internal and external teams to ensure alignment and adoption of digital products.
• Develop, motivate, and mentor a cross-functional team of product owners.
• Lead user research and leverage health industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Use data analytics to monitor performance and derive actionable insights.
• Provide clear reporting on product progress and outcomes to key stakeholders.
• Work with stakeholders to understand strategies and lead the development of digital roadmaps.
• Stay updated with health industry and technology innovations.
• Reporting: Implement and deliver regular reporting on product development progress and performance metrics.
• Support demand management and technical project management to ensure successful delivery of digital products and enhancements.

What we’re looking for:

• Extensive experience in product management and business analysis in agile environments, ideally in healthcare or charity sectors.
• Strong collaboration skills to foster cross-functional teamwork and a culture of test-and-learn innovation.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to engage stakeholders at all levels and translate complex problems into digital/data solutions.
• User-centric mindset with the ability to balance diverse stakeholder needs (e.g., clients, clinicians, operations).
• Proven leadership of cross-functional teams, with hands-on capability when needed.
• Experienced line manager with a focus on coaching, performance management, and team development.
• Strategic and analytical thinker with a passion for innovation and problem solving.
• Skilled in vendor and partner management and experienced in driving digital/product frameworks and continuous improvement.
• Strong prioritisation skills across diverse workstreams, with financial acumen and stakeholder management.
• Proven ability to measure and improve product performance (e.g., SLA, usage, scalability).
• Deep understanding of agile product lifecycle and technical concepts, able to communicate effectively with non-technical audiences.
• Knowledgeable in current/emerging digital tech, particularly AI, and how it supports strategic goals.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including occasional weekends and national travel.