Continuous improvement manager jobs

Wonderseekers, the charity behind Winchester Science Centre, is seeking a senior leader to drive the charity’s financial strategy and operational effectiveness. As a key member of the Executive Team, the role will provide strategic oversight of financial operations, risk management, and key support services, ensuring the charity's long-term sustainability. The successful candidate will work closely with senior leadership and trustees to align financial and operational goals with the charity’s mission of engaging children with science to improve their lives and contribute to a sustainable future. This leadership position will also focus on the efficient delivery of essential support functions, ensuring compliance with governance, legal obligations, and safety standards, and fostering a culture of excellence across all areas.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role at a charity with a powerful purpose and a solid financial foundation. Following a period of remarkable transformation, we are poised for even greater impact—investing in sustainability, expanding our reach, and enhancing our impact-driven science engagement experiences. If you’re passionate about leveraging financial leadership to create a better future for children and the planet, we’d love to hear from you.

Job details

Hours: 37.5 per week.

Work pattern: Usually Monday to Friday working during office hours with occasional weekends and out of hours work, however we do operate very flexibly.

Salary: Between £60,000-£70,000 per annum depending on experience (full-time)

Contract: Permanent

Line manager: CEO

Responsible for: Head of Finance, Head of Estates and Sustainability, Head of Digital Infrastructure

Holiday: 28 days per annum plus bank holidays (full-time). Option to buy/sell some leave and gain additional days for continuous service after four years. The post-holder will not usually be expected to work bank holidays however when duties require, time off in lieu will be available.

Location: Between both sites - Winchester Science Centre, Winchester, SO21 1HZ and Wonderseekers HQ, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE. Some remote working is possible however an onsite presence is required for most of the role.

Benefits: Cash health scheme, life assurance, buy/sell annual leave, long service holiday bonus, café and shop discount, electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, free tickets to WSC and partner attractions, family friendly leave, wellbeing policy, mental health first aiders, charity workers discount scheme, cycle to work scheme, financial loans, flexible IT, casual dress, staff events, enhanced pension contribution and pension salary sacrifice scheme, inflationary pay rise subject to charity performance and more.

Deadline: Monday 12th May 2025 9am

1st round interviews: 20th and 21st May 2025 at Winchester Science Centre

2nd round interviews: w/c 9th June

Please contact us if you’d like to arrange an informal chat or have any questions about the role before applying.

About our Charity

Wonderseekers (the Charity behind Winchester Science Centre) strives to engage all children with science so they can live happier, healthier and more sustainable lives and contribute to improving life on earth. The Charity runs Winchester Science Centre - a vibrant, hands-on experience for young children. Promising an exciting day out for families, with curriculum-linked trips for schools and an evening events programme, the Science Centre welcomes over 170,000 visitors every year. Through our magnificent planetarium and live science experiences, science is brought to life in imaginative, fun and accessible ways that means everyone is included.

Key Objectives

• Finance Leadership: Be the architect of and execute a strategic vision for the charity's financial growth and long-term sustainability, ensuring resilience in financial operations.
• Risk Management: Lead and drive the strategic management of risk within the Charity, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in risk practices.
• Health, Safety, and Safeguarding: Promote and ensure a culture of excellence in Health and Safety and Safeguarding practices, maintaining the highest standards across the charity
• Infrastructure Development: Champion the development and implementation of robust systems and infrastructure to enable the charity to fulfil its mission efficiently and effectively.
• Leadership: Lead the Charity Support Services team, ensuring seamless and proactive support for the organisation’s operations and strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Executive leadership and strategic contribution

• Report directly to the CEO, providing regular updates on financial performance, risk management, and operational efficiency. Additionally, the CFRO will present detailed financial reports, risk assessments, and progress on strategic goals to the Board of Trustees, ensuring transparency and alignment with the charity's long-term objectives.
• As a key member of the Executive Team, actively contribute to the development and refinement of the charity’s overall strategy, aligning financial and risk management goals with broader charity objectives.
• Play a leading role in setting and delivering the goals and targets defined in the charity’s business plan, ensuring financial health and operational efficiency.

Financial strategy and governance

• Develop, implement, and continually refine the charity’s financial strategy, policies, and practices in alignment with best practices and the organisation’s overall strategic goals.
• Provide financial leadership and oversight, ensuring the charity’s financial health by managing the planning, budgeting, reporting, and monitoring processes.
• Manage and oversee the preparation of accurate, timely financial statements, budgets, and forecasts that support decision-making by the Executive Team and Board.

Risk management and mitigation

• Lead the development and implementation of an enterprise-wide risk management framework that identifies, assesses, and mitigates risks across all operations.
• Oversee regular risk assessments and report on risk management performance, ensuring that all areas of the organisation are proactively managing risks.
• Foster a culture of risk awareness across the charity, ensuring that risk management is embedded in all key decision-making processes.

Operational efficiency and support services

• Lead and drive the efficient delivery of essential charity support functions, including IT, facilities management, health and safety, and safeguarding, ensuring that they are effectively resourced and aligned with the charity’s strategic needs.
• Ensure these functions operate in a seamless and ‘invisible’ manner, enhancing the operational efficiency of the charity while supporting its mission delivery.

Compliance and regulatory oversight

• Ensure full compliance with charity governance, statutory reporting, and all relevant legal obligations, including charity law, tax regulations,, financial reporting standards and data protection. The postholder will also act as our Data Protection Officer.
• Ensure that the charity adheres to all relevant health and safety regulations, creating and maintaining a safe working environment for staff, volunteers, and visitors.

Leadership and team development

• Lead, manage, and inspire the Charity Support Services team, ensuring a high level of collaboration and providing the resources needed for effective performance.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, supporting the professional development of staff and encouraging innovative problem-solving.

Stakeholder management and reporting

• Engage with the Board of Trustees and external stakeholders on matters relating to financial performance and risk management.
• Provide regular reports to the Board, senior leadership, and key stakeholders on financial status, risk assessments, and performance against strategic goals.

Person Specification:

Education:

• Essential: A recognised accountancy qualification (preferably ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Desirable: Management/leadership qualification or significant professional experience at a senior level in the charity sector.

Experience and knowledge:

Essential:

o A minimum of three years' experience in a senior management or leadership role.

o Proven track record of managing finance for a medium to large charity.

o Experience as a member of a Senior Management Team, contributing to strategic decision-making and organisational leadership.

o Expertise in financial management, including producing management accounts and monitoring cash flow for organisations with an annual turnover exceeding £2 million.

o Experience in business planning and long-term financial forecasting to support strategic goals.

o Strong experience in team management, including motivating staff and overseeing performance to drive high levels of engagement.

o Demonstrable experience of managing budgets, safeguarding processes, and risk management.

o Experience in the production and implementation of policies for example those related to finance, risk, health and safety, safeguarding and data protection within a charitable context.

Desirable:

o Familiarity with managing complex cash flow monitoring processes in a dynamic, mission-driven organisation.

Skills and Abilities:

Essential:

o Advanced IT skills, particularly in Excel, for financial analysis and reporting.

o Strong numeracy and attention to detail, ensuring accurate and high-quality outputs.

o Excellent time management and the ability to prioritise tasks to meet deadlines effectively.

o Outstanding verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to present complex financial and risk-related information clearly to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.

o Proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, with a hands-on and proactive approach.

o Personal integrity, intellectual agility, and the capacity to influence stakeholders at all levels within the organisation.

o Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trusting relationships across diverse teams and external partners.

o A professional, flexible, and resilient approach, maintaining composure in high-pressure environments.

Desirable:

o Ability to work effectively in a customer-facing organisation, ensuring financial and risk practices align with service delivery.

o Energetic, self-starting, and results-driven with a focus on continuous improvement and organisational impact.

o A positive and collaborative attitude towards contributing to a team culture that supports the charity’s mission.

The post-holder will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.

Interview Process:

We look forward to getting to know you through our friendly and welcoming interview process. The interview is likely to include a pre-interview task and questions from our panel. Interview questions will be circulated in advance.

We can’t wait to hear from you! Please contact us if you’d like to arrange an informal chat, or have any questions about the role before applying.

Ready to Apply?

When you are ready to apply, please submit your application through our recruitment portal.

You will be asked to submit your contact details and answer a few questions so we can get to know you. Please keep your responses concise, this is your opportunity to really stand out. After answering these questions, please upload your cover letter and CV.

Need information in a different format or would like to apply in an alternative way? Just get in touch via our website.

No recruitment agencies, thank you.

We're looking for a strategic, analytical, and leadership-oriented Director of Governance and Assurance to join our Head Office located in Islington.

£85,000.00 per annum, working 35 hours per week.

Want to feel like you're making a difference? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

For a full job description, please visit our website.

As the Director of Governance and Assurance, you will provide sector-leading company secretariat, governance, and assurance, ensuring the governance structure efficiently manages regulated activities and commercial group entities. The post-holder will also advise and support the Chief Executive, Chair, and SLT on all aspects of regulation, corporate governance, and effective business conduct for the organisation, ensuring the highest standards of probity and according to statutory and legislative requirements.

The Director of Governance and Assurance will oversee risk management and assurance functions, ensuring effective systems for internal controls and regulatory compliance, including internal audit management. They will provide administrative support for Board and Committee meetings, including agenda planning, minute taking, and record keeping.

This role is a key contact with the Regulator of Social Housing and other external government or regulatory organisations including CQC and Ofsted.

The Director of Governance and Assurance must embody a strategic and principled leadership style, ensuring the highest standards of governance, risk management and regulatory compliance. This individual will demonstrate exceptional integrity, attention to detail, and the ability to navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes with confidence. With strong analytical and communication skills, they will provide expert guidance to the Board and Senior Leadership Team while fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. Adept at balancing strategic oversight with operational efficiency, they will drive continuous improvement in governance practices, ensuring that Look Ahead remains resilient, compliant, and well-positioned to fulfil its mission in the housing and social care sector.

What you'll bring:

Skills

Leadership: Strong leadership and management skills to oversee governance and assurance functions.

Organisational skills: Extremely organised with a planned approach to ensure leading the activity in this remit.

Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse and interpret legal and regulatory requirements.

Communication: Excellent communication skills to provide clear advice and support to Board and Committee members.

Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy in record-keeping and compliance monitoring.

Qualifications

Educational Background: Typically, a bachelor's degree in business administration, law, finance, or a related field. A master's degree or MBA can be advantageous.

Professional Certifications: Relevant certifications such as Certified Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), or Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) can enhance your credentials

Qualified Company Secretary

Experience

Leadership Experience: Significant experience in a senior leadership role, preferably within governance, risk management, or compliance.

Industry Experience: Significant experience in the Housing sector

Track Record: Proven track record of successfully implementing governance and assurance frameworks and driving improvements in organisational performance

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.

We are Caring and Compassionate.

We are Inclusive and Trusted.

We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

About you

Do you want to use your skills to make it possible for people with myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, to live longer and better lives?

Myeloma UK is looking for a motivated and pro-active Policy Officer to join our Patient Advocacy team within the wider Research and Advocacy directorate.  You will have experience of analysing, developing, and communicating policy issues, excellent communication and influencing skills and the ability to present findings and recommendations to a range of audiences.  The post holder will have excellent attention to detail and the ability to prioritise and work under pressure.

The successful candidate will be a highly regarded ambassador for Myeloma UK with a desire to continuously improve and to make a difference while working flexibility and using their own initiative.

Experience of public/patient engagement work, participating in government policy consultations and patient advocacy campaign work would be beneficial but not essential.

About the role

As the Policy Officer you will be part of the Patient Advocacy team who work to ensure that the patient voice is heard and acted upon by UK and devolved nations healthcare policy decision makers. You will support Myeloma UK’s ambition to deliver personalised medicine, such that every person living with and affected by myeloma and associated conditions has access to the best diagnostics, treatment and care services and quality of life experience.

Your role is vital to developing strategic approaches to UK health policy legislation and consultations to ensure that UK government and devolved nations healthcare policy supports the needs of people living with and affected by myeloma and associated conditions. 

You will support the Policy Manager to assess existing healthcare policies, regulations and legislation to understand their implications for myeloma-specific healthcare systems, providers and patients

About us

Myeloma UK is the only UK charity focused on myeloma and its related conditions.  We provide support and influence access to treatments, while researching a cure.  Thanks to life-extending treatments and support, today many people affected by myeloma are able to live longer and to live well.  Together, we support, so no one faces myeloma alone. 

We are committed to bringing together the best and brightest people to help us ensure that every patient has an empowered present and a hopeful future.

Our ultimate goal is to find a cure and make myeloma history. Until then, our mission is to help every patient live well with myeloma for as long as possible. We are committed to diagnosing myeloma earlier, discovering and sharing knowledge, transforming the patient experience and influencing positive change in care.

Our culture

Wellbeing and staff engagement are at the heart of our culture.  We offer our employees a range of benefits including a pension salary exchange scheme, flexitime, flexible working from home with hub-based office working, health plan, employee assistance plan and holiday purchase scheme and we are committed to providing learning and development opportunities for all our employees.

How to apply

If you think you would be a great fit for this role, get in touch and tell us more about yourself by sending the following:

1. A cover letter telling us more about you and what you think makes you a good fit for this role

2. A CV that sets out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements

Applications close on 12 May 2025 and interviews will be held w/c 19 May 2025.

Myeloma UK is an equal opportunities employer and always welcomes applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of:

· sex

· race

· disability

· age

· sexual orientation

· gender reassignment

· religion or belief

· marital status

· pregnancy and maternity

Please note, you will be asked to provide evidence of your eligibility to work in the UK prior to interview selection.

Goodman Masson are excited to partner exclusively with Newground Together to recruit a Community Programme Coordinator for Youth & Community. Help us shape the future of youth and community work in East Lancashire. We're delighted to be recruiting a Community Programmes Coordinator for Youth & Community to join our passionate and growing team at Newground Together, at a truly exciting time in our journey. Very soon, we'll be launching the brand-new Shadsworth Youth Hub, a flagship, purpose-built space created with and for local young people and their families. This dynamic, inclusive hub will become a beating heart for the community, offering opportunities to learn, connect, grow, and thrive.

As Community Programmes Coordinator, you'll be at the heart of this. You'll lead the delivery of impactful youth and community programmes across three key sites: The Shadsworth Youth Hub (including your office base), The Shadsworth Community Hub, and the Greensleeves Community Allotment, a brilliant green space for sustainable activity and connection. This role offers the chance to leave a lasting legacy by building meaningful programmes, developing a strong team, and shaping how we engage with our community going forward.

Who We Are: Newground Together is a registered charity and part of the Together Housing Group. Our mission is to empower people to create connected, resilient, healthy, and prosperous communities. We do this by supporting jobs and training, engaging young people and families, providing memorable outdoor experiences, and promoting health and wellbeing through inclusive activity.

The application deadline for this role is 29/04/2025, with interviews scheduled for the following week. Please apply as soon as possible, as the application may close earlier.

What You'll Be Doing: You'll lead a dedicated delivery team and oversee the development of programmes that reflect local needs and aspirations. Key responsibilities include:

People Leadership & Team Development: Lead, support and develop a multidisciplinary team across multiple delivery sites. Champion a strong, inclusive team culture. Promote staff wellbeing and uphold safeguarding best practice

Programme Management & Delivery: Plan and oversee youth and community programmes across Shadsworth and East Lancashire. Ensure services are high-quality, inclusive, and responsive to local needs. Embed continuous improvement through reflection, evaluation, and feedback.

Partnerships & Community Engagement: Build collaborative partnerships with schools, community groups, funders, and local agencies. Represent Newground Together in networks and external forums. Support co-designed and co-delivered services with local partners.

Financial & Operational Oversight: Manage project budgets and reporting. Contribute to funding bids and business planning. Oversee premises, health and safety, and site logistics.

Performance Monitoring & Strategic Input: Lead on reporting, quality assurance, and outcome tracking. Contribute to strategic planning and service development. Identify gaps or under-performance and lead on solutions

We are seeking a confident and experienced individual who brings:

• A strong background in youth work, community development or a related field
• Demonstrable experience of team management and people development
• A commitment to equality, inclusion and strengths-based working with diverse communities
• The ability to lead, plan and deliver services within multi-agency settings
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build and maintain collaborative partnerships
• Budget and contract management experience, with strong organisational and administrative skills
• A flexible and proactive approach, including willingness to work some evenings/weekends
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Relevant qualification

In return, we are offering the successful candidate in the Community Programme Coordinator for Youth & Community role

• Starting salary: £39,298 per year
• Annual Leave: 27 days rising to 32 with service, plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working model: Approx. 80% in-person, 20% home-based (depending on the needs of the service and your team)
• A flexible working environment, with a range of family friendly policies
• You will be working 37 hours per week, Monday - Friday. Working arrangements are flexible in line with our Smart Working culture so that we deliver an excellent and accessible service for customers.
• Wide range of technical, professional, and personal development training opportunities
• Attractive pension scheme
• Health and wellbeing benefits including access to GPs
• A range of financial and lifestyle benefits including cycle to work, vehicle leasing and financial advice
• We have a range of staff support networks, including menopause, culturally diverse, LGBTQ+ and disability.
• To view the full range of our award winning benefits click on the

We reserves the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient numbers of applicants are received. Therefore, please apply without delay!

In our company values we aim for equity at all stages of the recruitment process, please let us know if we can do anything to make the process more accessible to you.

HOW TO APPLY:

WE ARE ONLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH OUR WEBSITE.

APPLICATIONS SENT VIA EMAIL OR OTHER METHODS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

Responsible for delivering marketing content to promote the mission, vision and values of the charity. Your primary goal will be to increase awareness and engagement with the work the Charity does.

ON APPOINTMENT, YOU'RE EXPECTED TO HAVE:

• Previous professional experience and hold most of the necessary skills for the role.

IN YOUR ROLE:

• You are expected to be able to work independently quickly post your induction with guidance and support for more challenging or complex aspects of this role; 
• You will carry out wide range of duties independently with guidance and supervision available; 
• You will contribute your knowledge and experience to the wider team / organisational development

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• With support from the Marketing Director, create and deliver content plans for charity fundraising and awareness campaigns.
• Take a lead role in developing a monthly marketing calendar to plan and schedule content in line with the overall Marketing Strategy
• Work directly with young people and through the Charity’s team to tell their stories, working to make this a positive, empowering experience for them.
• Prepare monthly analytics report and adjust marketing plans accordingly in discussion with Marketing Director.
• Write, design and send newsletters for charity stakeholders.
• Write, design and upload blogs posts on the Charity’s website.
• Write, design and schedule social media posts.
• With support from the Marketing Director, make updates and improvements to the Charity’s website.
• Monitor and respond to engagement on social media, maintaining a positive digital community. 
• Create press releases as requested and collaborate with PR partners to raise the profile of Caudwell Youth.
• Create designs for the Charity to use across all marketing channels, building strong relationships with all departments.
• Support consistent use of our brand across the charity 
• Support the volunteering function by implementing and evaluating digital advertising plans to recruit volunteer mentors, including by using social media and google ads grant.

TRAVEL & TEAM

• Some travel to events to take photos and videos for the charity.
• Some travel to work with young people.
• Endeavour to promote Caudwell Youth’s values in all that you do. 
• Be an ambassador for Caudwell Youth. 

ADMINISTRATION

• Work within budgets, properly justifying / accounting for expenditure.
• Ensure good administration, record keeping and reporting of all work undertaken in line with data protection and other regulations.

PARTNERSHIPS & LIAISON

• Work closely with the team and with key stakeholders to promote good communication and shared focus.
• Represent the Charity professionally and appropriately to other organisations.

TEAM ETHOS:

• Work effectively as a team, supporting other team members and be willing to receive support whilst fulfilling your own responsibilities and tasks.
• Express and promote equal opportunities and encourage inclusion and involvement.
• Ensure good communications and relationships within the team at all times.
• Attend team meetings, personal work reviews and task group meetings proactively and as a contributor.

GENERAL:

• Act in a professional way at all times.
• Undertake and identify training as required and take a positive approach to personal development.
• Fulfil the duties and responsibilities of an employee as regards to Health and Safety at Work, including own safety and self-management.
• Undertake any other reasonable tasks deemed necessary.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• A strong passion for working with young people and supporting the mission of the charity.
• Worked in a Charity for 1+ year.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and demonstrate initiative.
• Open to innovative approaches and collaborative working, particularly in the context of a growing and evolving organisation.
• A genuine commitment to personal development and continuous learning.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently with a range of stakeholders.
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Microsoft Teams, with accurate typing and general digital literacy.
• A team player who can take direction, contribute ideas, and collaborate constructively.
• Strong attention to detail and a high standard of accuracy in all work.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Demonstrates a clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Positive, proactive, and adaptable approach to work, with a flexible attitude to changing priorities.
• Must hold a full UK driving licence, have access to a vehicle, and hold appropriate business insurance.

DESIRABLE SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• News and/or policy experience.
• Charity communications experience.
• Willingness and ability to adapt to new software systems and databases.
• Working knowledge of Data Protection regulations and ability to apply them appropriately.
• A sound understanding of safeguarding practices and the importance of confidentiality.

WHY WORK FOR US?

We are an experienced team that are dedicated to improving the lives of the young people we support.

Benefits:

• Flexible working
• Remote Working – Primarily working from home, with in-person meetings scheduled every other month
• Health Assured (including Employee Assistance Programme and extended counselling sessions)
• Group Personal Pension with a 5% employer contribution and Salary Sacrifice Scheme (after 3 months)
• 25 days annual leave (pro-rata based on FTE) plus bank holidays (pro-rata), plus charity closure between Christmas and New Year
• Extra paid day off on your birthday
• Paid day off for volunteering in your community
• Training opportunities to support your personal development
• Employee discounts on everyday goods and services
• Being part of a passionate and dedicated team

Caudwell Youth is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of this commitment, we undertake disclosure checks in accordance with the Codes of Practice for all. Having a criminal record will not automatically exclude applicants.

Financial Controller (Ark and Ventures)

Reports to: Finance Director for Ark and Ventures

Location: Currently operating hybrid working in our West London Office

Contract: Permanent

Pattern: Full Time (standard hours 9am – 5.30pm)

Closing date: 05/05/2025

1st stage interviews: w/c 05/05/2025 (virtual)

2nd stage interviews: w/c 12/05/2025 (in person)

Salary: £60,000 to £75,000 (depending on experience)

About the role:

This is a vital and high-profile role for us and requires a person with strong technical skills and the power of independent thought; meticulous organisational skills and attention to detail; and drive to constantly develop new and improved ways of working. The successful candidate will be a qualified and committed accountant, ready to lead financial control for Ark’s central Finance team.

The Financial Controller will be mainly responsible for ensuring the highest standards of financial control are met across Ark, its subsidiaries and the various external ventures Ark supports. Within this, the role will be responsible for the processing and reporting of financial accounting data for Ark and its related entities, day-to-day cash flow management and compliant statutory returns (including VAT).

The Financial Controller for Ark and Ventures will report into Finance Director for Ark and Ventures. This role is currently operating hybrid working in our West London Office on a permanent basis working full time.

First-round interviews will take place virtually w/c Monday 5th May and second-round interviews will take place in person w/c Monday 12th May.

Key Responsibilities:

• Staff management including training and regular appraisals. The team currently consists of two Finance Officers. Also supporting two business partners.
• Provide up-to-date financial information and technical advice to Ark management and the Venture teams, including cash management.
• Lead the year-end process, including creation of annual accounts for Ark and its related entities (excluding Ark Schools) and overseeing the audits.
• First review of monthly management accounts.
• Take responsibility for the year-end audit and preparation/supervision of draft statutory accounts for the Group and 5 subsidiary entities in accordance with Charities SORP, Companies Act and UK GAAP. Liaise with auditors and ensure timetable and deadlines are met
• Management and oversight of the month-end process to ensure timely period close, including approval of all manual journals posted to the accounting system.
• Review and approval of balance sheets control account reconciliations, including bank reconciliation, petty cash, purchase ledger, staff loans, credit card, and Payroll accounts.
• Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Group’s cash flow and Treasury and preparation of performance reports for the Ark Management Team and Finance and Risk Committee.
• Set-up and maintenance of PS Financials (accounting system) and Concur (invoice and expense system), including maintaining workflows in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation.
• Relationship owner for Lloyds (banker), including set-up of Commercial Banking Online and credit cards in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation. Responsible for maintaining all bank accounts and mandates.
• Responsibility for writing and maintaining finance policies and processes, including the financial Scheme of Delegation, and ensuring these are freely available to all relevant staff.
• Accounts Payable Lead ensuring all suppliers are paid on time. Responsible for processing weekly BACs runs and authorisations in line with the Scheme of Delegation.
• Manage insurance provision for the Ark Group.

Key Requirements:

• Right to work in the UK.
• Professional Accounting Qualification (at least 3-years post-qualification).
• Educated to degree level or equivalent.
• A record of Continuing Professional Development activities.
• Audit experience.
• Hands on experience of producing statutory accounts.
• Experience of VAT, including international and/or construction industry scheme reverse charge, ideally in a charity context.
• Advanced level IT skills and ability to make effective use of standard software packages, e.g., Microsoft Words, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Staff management.
• Knowledge of the latest Charities SORP and Companies Act.
• Understanding and/or experience of working across a Group structure with a variety of business activities.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, influencing and relationship building skills at multiple levels.
• Self-motivated with excellent time-management skills and the ability to plan, manage and prioritise a varied workload, and to take responsibility for issues through to resolution.
• High attention to detail, proactive, confident, independent thinker and an enthusiastic ‘can do’ attitude.
• Ability to effectively present financial information at the appropriate level.
• Ability to challenge and influence assertively and cooperatively.

Benefits:

• Our hybrid working model aims to offer the best of both worlds, striking the right balance between in-person collaboration and remote working. You will work a minimum of two days per week in our state-of-the-art office in West London allowing you to connect with colleagues, with the flexibility to work remotely, or in the office over the remaining days
• In addition to our current hybrid working arrangements, employees can request to work fully remotely for up to 10 working days a year, whether this be in the UK or abroad
• Our flexitime policy allows you to work your hours around our core hours of 10.00 - 16.00, helping you prioritise your work-life balance and personal commitments
• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising with each year of service up to 30 days after 3-years’ service. This entitlement is pro rata for part time employees. This entitlement excludes bank holidays
• Full office closure between Christmas and New Year
• As an Ark employee, you will have the opportunity to be part of the TPT (The Pension Trust) scheme, our workplace pension scheme where we make an 11% contribution; you are not required to contribute towards this scheme unless you choose to
• Access to high-quality professional learning throughout your career, offering both face-to-face sessions and a bespoke online learning platform
• Access to Ark Rewards scheme offering savings from over 3,000 major retailers, interest-free loans available for season tickets or a bike, gym discounts offering up to 40% off your local gym and free eye tests.

About Us:

Ark is an education charity that exists to make sure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to a great education and real choices in life. Our network of 39 schools reaches traditionally underserved communities in Birmingham, Hastings, London and Portsmouth. We educate 30,000 pupils and have nearly 3,000 teaching staff across our network. We also incubate and scale innovative ventures, which we roll out beyond our network of schools for the benefit of teachers, pupils and the education system as a whole. Current Ventures include Ark Curriculum Plus, which equips teachers with the subject expertise needed to ensure students succeed, and Ark Start, a growing chain of nurseries offering affordable, high-quality early years education.

Recently, Ark moved to new offices at EdCity – a unique not-for-profit development in West London, in partnership with Hammersmith & Fulham council. EdCity is designed to bring mission-aligned organisations together to focus on improving the lives of children, especially through education. It offers leased offices, a range of venues for training and events, and an innovation hub for the education sector to connect, collaborate and learn together.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We aim to build a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone – staff and students – can do their best work and achieve their full potential. We want to reflect and represent diverse perspectives across our organisation because we know that doing so will make us stronger and more effective. To know more about Ark’s diversity and inclusion commitments, please click on this link.

Safeguarding statement:

Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants.

Ark requires all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. You are required, before appointment, to disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non-disclosure may lead to termination of employment. However, disclosure of a criminal background will not necessarily debar you from employment - this will depend upon the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred. To read more about Ark’s safer recruitment process, please click this link.

Please note we will be reviewing applications on an on-going basis and this role may close earlier than advertised depending on the level of response. We strongly encourage to submit your application at your earliest convenience.

As a Bank Administrator you will be pivotal in providing a centralised administrative and customer service type support to a variety of departments and managers across the organisation. You will be proactive, adaptable and enthusiastic. Your duties will vary with each assignment but will include customer service; data entry; typing; filing; and MS office use. Assignments will be offered to meet the needs of the business, with details  of the role and the required skills, hours of work, length of assignment, and reporting line, provided at the time.

Adapting to each role and maintaining your professional skill set and availability for The Children’s Trust will be key

Role requirements:

• Duties and Responsibilities can and will vary from each assignment and will include the following:
• Supporting the requirements of the individual teams for each assignment.
• Handling incoming enquiries and communicating with external stakeholders in a professional  and welcoming manner.
• Minute taking for various meetings and audio typing on an ad-hoc basis.
• Provide efficient and flexible administrative support to teams.
• Arrange visits for external visitors, including notifying reception; arranging car parking; informing relevant staff members; “meet and greet;” and escorting visitors where required.
• Manage incoming phone calls and voicemail, taking messages and disseminate information
• appropriately.
• Scan and distribute relevant information where required.
• Format professional, high-quality documents, proof read prior to being sent off for approval.
• Input data and any other relevant information into organisational databases / systems.
• Carrying out general administrative duties such as typing, posting, filing letters and documents.
• Diary management.
• Arranging meetings, including booking of rooms and refreshments, organising agendas and attendees.
• Undertake other or additional duties that are within your skills and abilities, as the organisation may reasonably require from time to time

About Us

The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with acquired brain injury, providing expert rehabilitation, education, therapy, and care at our national specialist centre in Tadworth, and to children and their families across the UK, via our Brain Injury Community Service.

Boasting a beautiful 24-acre site in Surrey, we are located just outside of London, close to the M25 (accessible via Junction 8, A217 to Tadworth) and easily accessible via National Rail, by way of: Clapham Junction, Sutton, and Epsom.

Staff Benefits

The work we do is highly rewarding, and in addition to an attractive salary, we offer a valuable range of benefits on our staff flexible benefits platform, on-site nursery, free eye tests, enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay, time out days for those experiencing menopause symptoms and time off for gender reassignment.

We also offer additional annual leave days for those with long service, with entitlements ranging from 35 to 41 days (including bank holidays) depending on your length of service.

Other benefits include free on-site parking; a staff shuttle service from Epsom and Sutton train stations to Tadworth Court, subsidised cafeteria, on-site staff accommodation (subject to availability), the ability to retain your NHS pension (where applicable), Teacher’s pension (where applicable) or the opportunity to join an alternative scheme, and the opportunity to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Rehabilitation of Offenders

Many roles at The Children’s Trust are exempt from the provisions of Section 4 (2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, by virtue of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 and 2020) and as such, are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.  Successful applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check, which will disclose all unspent convictions and adult cautions and any spent convictions or adult cautions that would not be protected.  The exceptions to this are our retail roles within The Children’s Trust shops, which are subject to Basic DBS checks which will disclose unspent convictions or adult cautions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

To help us achieve our ambition to give children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability the opportunity to live the best life possible, we want to accurately reflect the UK’s diverse population. We want equity, diversity, and inclusion to be at the heart of everything we do, and our people, services, and culture to reflect the diverse needs of all. Through our diversity and inclusion strategy, we have made a commitment to increase the diversity of our charity and create an inclusive culture. We have networks across the organisation working to ensure that these aims are met - including an LGBTQIA2S+ group, Ethnic Diversity Group, and Spark – our broad EDI group. Read more about our EDI work here. We welcome applications from all who share our ambition regardless of background. We will strive to ensure that any reasonable adjustments are made in respect of interview and working arrangements.

Online Searches

In accordance with statutory safeguarding and child protection guidance, online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates before interview. The online searches will be conducted by a person who is independent of the interview and selection process and will focus on relevant information returned via searches of the candidate’s name (and variations thereof). Social media searches will be limited to professional platforms such as LinkedIn. Any concerns relating to suitability for work with children and young people will be forwarded to the interview panel, for discussion during the interview.

At The King’s Trust, we’re on a mission to help young people thrive—and technology plays a vital role in making that happen. We’re looking for a IT Service Owner- (Fundraising) to lead the way in ensuring our fundraising systems and technology are optimised, effective, and aligned with our long-term strategy.

In this role, you’ll own the end-to-end delivery of fundraising technology solutions, collaborating with stakeholders to shape and implement a service that supports our fundraising teams, enhances supporter engagement, and drives revenue growth.

What You’ll Do:

 Lead the strategy, development, and optimisation of fundraising technology

• Work with stakeholders to ensure our systems support fundraising excellence
• Ensure our fundraising tech is scalable, secure, and future-proof
• Identify and mitigate risks while ensuring best-in-class data governance
• Keep on top of emerging fundraising technologies and digital trends
• Align fundraising technology with Finance, Delivery and People systems and overall Enterprise Architecture 

What You’ll Bring:

�� Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
�� Technical knowledge of fundraising systems and CRM platforms
�� Ability to translate complex tech into simple, effective solutions
�� Experience delivering successful technology projects in fundraising or NFPs
�� A passion for leveraging technology to maximise fundraising impact

 This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of fundraising technology at The King’s Trust, making a tangible difference in young people’s lives

Member Relations Co-ordinator

We are delighted to share this new and exciting opportunity for a Member Relations Co-ordinator to join a dynamic organisation.

Position: Member Relations Co-ordinator

Location: Holyoake House, Manchester

Salary: £34,577 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Contract: Permanent/Hybird 

Closing Date: Midnight, Thursday 22nd May 2025

Interviews: Week commencing 2nd June 2025, in Manchester.

Benefits: Flexible working options, pension scheme, discounted travel to work schemes, employee wellbeing assistance programme including free eye tests, personal and professional growth and development, including coaching and trade union.

We reserve the right to close the role early should a suitable candidate be found before this date. Applicants are required to submit an application form.

About the role:

As Member Relations Co-ordinator, you will play a key role in growing and strengthening our diverse co-operative network. You will contribute to the delivery of our membership strategy, manage relationships with current and prospective members, and support the development of membership services and products. You will be the first point of contact for member enquiries, ensuring a responsive and high-quality experience, while also supporting initiatives to improve member engagement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Support the implementation of the membership and engagement strategy, contributing to KPIs and team targets as required.

• Develop a deep understanding of our members, managing recruitment, retention, and account management to build strong, sustainable relationships.

• Maintain expert knowledge of our subscription model, products, and services, ensuring member needs are met and income targets achieved.

• Collaborate across teams to align organisational activities with membership goals and develop income-generating services that meet member needs.

• Stay informed on sector trends and developments to enhance our member offer, services, and ways of working.

• Act as a key contact for member insights, providing accurate, timely data to support bids and communications.

• Maintain member records and perform analysis and reporting via our CRM (Salesforce) to support performance tracking and process improvements.

• Manage complex member queries and act as an escalation point for the Member Relations team.

• Lead on account management of federal members, dual memberships, and selected partner members, developing strong relationships and commercial understanding.

• Support the renewal process, membership campaigns, and communications planning, helping to increase member retention and acquisition.

• Contribute to high-quality membership processes and ensure governance structures reflect our co-operative identity.

• Actively support the Member Services Lead with wider membership functions and continuous process improvement.

About you:

To succeed in this role, you will be a confident communicator with strong customer service and relationship management skills. You’ll be excited to work for a values-led organisation and passionate about making a difference.

You will also have:

• Proven customer service and client management skills, with the ability to adapt communication across diverse audiences.

• Passion for values-led organisations such as co-operatives, community businesses, or social enterprises.

• Self-motivated and enthusiastic, with a strong track record in independent working, prioritisation, and meeting deadlines.

• Experience handling public or membership-related enquiries in a professional setting.

• Strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build lasting relationships.

• Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal, with presentation and group delivery experience.

• Detail-oriented and diligent in process-driven tasks like record keeping and database maintenance.

• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet performance targets.

About the organisation:

As the voice of the UK’s co-operative movement, we empower and support co-operative enterprises with specialised knowledge and expertise, to grow the co-operative economy and create a fairer society. From football clubs and farms to convenience stores and pubs, there are more than 7,000 co-operatives in the UK, each owned and controlled by their members and based on a set of shared principles and values. By promoting shared wealth through member ownership, we are committed to enabling anyone in the UK to form, or join, thriving and sustainable co-ops.

As an organisation we are led by our unwavering values of solidarity, self-responsibility, equity, and honesty, therefore if you share these core values, we would be delighted to receive your application.

Other roles you may have experience in could include Member Services, Client Relations, Community Engagement, Customer Experience, Membership Officer, Project Co-ordinator, Administration, Operations Support, or Account Manager.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Goodman Masson are excited to partner exclusively with Newground Together to recruit a Community Programme Coordinator for Youth & Community. Help us shape the future of youth and community work in East Lancashire. We're delighted to be recruiting a Community Programmes Coordinator for Youth & Community to join our passionate and growing team at Newground Together, at a truly exciting time in our journey. Very soon, we'll be launching the brand-new Shadsworth Youth Hub, a flagship, purpose-built space created with and for local young people and their families. This dynamic, inclusive hub will become a beating heart for the community, offering opportunities to learn, connect, grow, and thrive.

As Community Programmes Coordinator, you'll be at the heart of this. You'll lead the delivery of impactful youth and community programmes across three key sites: The Shadsworth Youth Hub (including your office base), The Shadsworth Community Hub, and the Greensleeves Community Allotment, a brilliant green space for sustainable activity and connection. This role offers the chance to leave a lasting legacy by building meaningful programmes, developing a strong team, and shaping how we engage with our community going forward.

Who We Are: Newground Together is a registered charity and part of the Together Housing Group. Our mission is to empower people to create connected, resilient, healthy, and prosperous communities. We do this by supporting jobs and training, engaging young people and families, providing memorable outdoor experiences, and promoting health and wellbeing through inclusive activity.

The application deadline for this role is 29/04/2025, with interviews scheduled for the following week. Please apply as soon as possible, as the application may close earlier.

What You'll Be Doing: You'll lead a dedicated delivery team and oversee the development of programmes that reflect local needs and aspirations. Key responsibilities include:

People Leadership & Team Development: Lead, support and develop a multidisciplinary team across multiple delivery sites. Champion a strong, inclusive team culture. Promote staff wellbeing and uphold safeguarding best practice

Programme Management & Delivery: Plan and oversee youth and community programmes across Shadsworth and East Lancashire. Ensure services are high-quality, inclusive, and responsive to local needs. Embed continuous improvement through reflection, evaluation, and feedback.

Partnerships & Community Engagement: Build collaborative partnerships with schools, community groups, funders, and local agencies. Represent Newground Together in networks and external forums. Support co-designed and co-delivered services with local partners.

Financial & Operational Oversight: Manage project budgets and reporting. Contribute to funding bids and business planning. Oversee premises, health and safety, and site logistics.

Performance Monitoring & Strategic Input: Lead on reporting, quality assurance, and outcome tracking. Contribute to strategic planning and service development. Identify gaps or under-performance and lead on solutions

We are seeking a confident and experienced individual who brings:

• A strong background in youth work, community development or a related field
• Demonstrable experience of team management and people development
• A commitment to equality, inclusion and strengths-based working with diverse communities
• The ability to lead, plan and deliver services within multi-agency settings
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build and maintain collaborative partnerships
• Budget and contract management experience, with strong organisational and administrative skills
• A flexible and proactive approach, including willingness to work some evenings/weekends
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Relevant qualification

In return, we are offering the successful candidate in the Community Programme Coordinator for Youth & Community role

• Starting salary: £39,298 per year
• Annual Leave: 27 days rising to 32 with service, plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working model: Approx. 80% in-person, 20% home-based (depending on the needs of the service and your team)
• A flexible working environment, with a range of family friendly policies
• You will be working 37 hours per week, Monday - Friday. Working arrangements are flexible in line with our Smart Working culture so that we deliver an excellent and accessible service for customers.
• Wide range of technical, professional, and personal development training opportunities
• Attractive pension scheme
• Health and wellbeing benefits including access to GPs
• A range of financial and lifestyle benefits including cycle to work, vehicle leasing and financial advice
• We have a range of staff support networks, including menopause, culturally diverse, LGBTQ+ and disability.
• To view the full range of our award winning benefits click on the

We reserves the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient numbers of applicants are received. Therefore, please apply without delay!

In our company values we aim for equity at all stages of the recruitment process, please let us know if we can do anything to make the process more accessible to you.

Join our dynamic Communications team and be part of a rare opportunity to shape the narratives and visuals that amplify the life-changing initiatives of 1625 Independent People. If you're passionate about crafting powerful communications that make a difference, this is your chance to affect change and leave a lasting impression.

Please find full details of how to apply via our website in the advert below. The deadline for application submissions is 23:59 Thursday 08 May 2025.

We are striving to better represent the young people we support and therefore are particularly keen to increase applications from minoritized ethnic groups, Muslim and male candidates as they are currently under-represented in our organisation. We also encourage applications from people with relevant lived experience. 

If you need an adjustment to be made to any part of the recruitment process, please let us know as soon as possible. 

Who are we?

We are a leading youth homelessness charity based in the Southwest, working with over 1,500 young people. At 1625ip we are driven by Social Justice and Passion: we strive to do something that matters and take pride in seeing the results of our work in social outcomes and improving young people’s lives.

What you will be doing:

• By being empathetic and seeking to understanding the complex needs of homeless young people, young people leaving care, and the barriers they face, you will work with them and their support workers to tell their stories. 
• Utilising your creative skill’s, you will create branded collateral that supports a variety of campaigns and events.
• Through your enthusiasm, you will be able to work on own initiative but also alongside your team, ensuring all communications are suitable for specific audiences. 
• By being detail orientated you will be managing a variety of platforms including the website and all social media channels.
• You build strong relationships both internally and externally; you communicate excellently, and you influence others externally to support 1625 Independent People

You will be in Fundraising and Communications Team and your line manager will be our Communications and Community Fundraising Manager.

At 1625 we are led by our Competency Development Framework. This connects our values to our behaviours in everything we do and gives us the tools to develop. The framework ensures our recruitment is better informed, applications and interviews are behaviourally based, and job profiles are developed on the ‘how’ of a job. 

If you have transferrable skills and you are interested in this role, but you are worried about the application process, please get in touch with us. We encourage you to have an informal chat with the recruiting manager to discuss how your personal or professional experience and skills could be transferred to this role. Details of how you can do that are further down in this advert.

Contract details 

• Hours per week: 37.5 (this represents 1 FTE)
• Contract type: 1 year contract (Maternity Cover)
• Pay: £27,852 - £29,439 per annum 
• The location: Kingsley Hall, Old Market - there is also flexibility and support to manage working from home. We currently meet as a team 2 days a week at Kingsley Hall. 

A few benefits at 1625ip

In return for your dedication, we offer:

• A generous annual leave entitlement of 30 days per annum plus all Bank Holidays
• Employee Health Cash Plan with HSF
• A supportive and approachable team with an emphasis on colleague wellbeing 
• “1625 Independent People is an amazing organisation, and I feel very lucky to work here”, Colleague Wellbeing Survey 2024.
• “I couldn’t be happier with the opportunities and support I have received in my career progression that has led me to my dream job!” See what other colleagues have said about their career development with us, on the vacancy page of our website. 
• 1625ip is a Disability Confident Employer.
• Flexible working

Important dates

• Application deadline closes: 23:59 Thursday 08 May 2025.
• If you have not heard from us by the end of the day on Wednesday 14 May 2025, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. 
• Interviews are on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 May 2025. 

Application information

Ready to see yourself in this rewarding role? We can’t wait to hear from you.

• To access the Job Pack and submit an application, please visit the vacancy page on our website.
• You will be asked to answer 3 questions at the end of the Word application form. These are required to ensure your application can be shortlisted. 
• Please note the online e-application form cannot be saved so we recommend you prepare your Word application form before you start filling in the e-form.
• Please get in touch with us if a hard copy of the application form would be preferred. We will organise a time for you to collect it from and return it to Kingsley Hall (our main office in Old Market). An online application will then be created for you. 

Equitable opportunities for everyone

We believe those with a criminal record should have an equal chance to become employees or volunteers and encourage applications. 

As an organisation who safeguard and promote the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, any job offer will depend on a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. Successful candidates will need to provide our organisation with sufficient documentation to prove ID. We comply fully with the DBS code of practice and undertake to treat all applications for positions fairly. For successful candidates with a criminal record, a risk assessment process will take place with the recruiting manager.

We also pride ourselves on being an equitable opportunities employer for everyone regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion and beliefs, sex and sexual orientation. We have committed to being a Disability Confident Employer, and have made the Menopause Workplace, Mental Health at Work, and Bristol Equality Charter pledges.

Please see our Policies section on the website, for further information.   

Who are we?

Founded in 1807, we are the oldest geological society in the world. Today, we are a world-leading communicator of Earth science – through publishing, library and information services, cutting-edge scientific conferences, education activities and outreach to the general public. We also provide impartial scientific information and evidence to support policy-making and public debate about the challenges facing humanity.

We have a membership (Fellowship) of c. 12,000, more than 2,000 of whom are based outside the UK. Approximately 3,000 are Chartered Geologists or Chartered Scientists - professionals who have demonstrated a high level of technical competence in their field and a commitment to professional ethics.

We have been a major publisher within the community since 1811. An independent and international publisher, we are dedicated to providing a high-quality service to geoscientists globally and any surplus is invested to support our discipline. We publish a diverse range of books and journals on the Lyell Collection, with over 10,000 pages of new peer-reviewed geoscience literature being made available every year.

Our strategy …

1. Advance multidisciplinary Earth science to inform global issues
2. Be the inclusive and collaborative home for UK Earth scientists and increase our international orientation
3. Support professional development, careers and education in Earth science
4. Become a dynamic and responsive organisation with a strong digital identity

The essentials …

• Permanent, full-time
• £26,000 - £27,500 (depending on experience)
• Hybrid working with weekly days in the Bath office

What you’ll be doing …

The Geological Society Publishing House has an exciting new opportunity within the publishing operations team for a Publishing Operations Assistant to implement workflow and development updates across our range of publishing operation systems. This is an early career role with the opportunity to progress current skills and understanding.

Overall responsibilities / requirements …

To collaborate with the Head of Publishing Operations (HoPO) and the Publishing Platform Manager (PPM) working on the range of publishing systems utilized in-house for the successful publication of the Society’s portfolio of titles, from submission through peer review to final online publication.

Key accountabilities

Manuscript submission system administration:

• Implementing workflow and development updates within our chosen ‘manuscript submission, reviewing and production tracking’ system.
• Overseeing and troubleshooting day-to-day issues with the manuscript submission system and its linked third-party vendors.
• Work with colleagues to assess any new opportunities for digital solutions (such as research integrity tools) within the STM publishing arena.

Publishing platform support:

• Ongoing maintenance of, and updates to, our publishing platform system, and downstream workflow operations to third-party aggregators.
• Work with colleagues to gain a greater understanding, and opportunities for development of, our publishing platform system.

The duties and responsibilities highlighted in this Job Description are indicative and may vary over time.  As required, post holders are expected to undertake other duties and responsibilities relevant to the nature, level and scope of the post.

What we’re looking for …

Qualifications and experience

We recognise that the right person for this role may not meet all of the criteria but may also bring different strengths and experience. If you demonstrate most skills and are eager to work for the Society, please do go ahead and apply.

Essential

• Excellent and demonstrable problem-solving skills
• A systematic approach to identifying the underlying causes of problems to prevent recurrence, i.e. root cause analysis
• Logical, methodical and analytical thinking
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Experience of working within the publishing environment
• An interest in STM publishing and its systems
• Excellent written and oral communications
• High level of IT literacy
• Proven experience of managing multiple deadlines, and delivering work and projects to schedule and budget
• A-level (or equivalent) qualifications
• A willingness to embrace innovation and new ways of working

Desirable

• Understanding of the production processes involved in scholarly publishing
• Understanding or experience of submission systems and the peer review process
• Understanding or experience of the use of metadata in the publishing process
• Understanding or experience of XML and html tagging within publishing systems
• Experience with configuration of software solutions
• Experience collaborating across teams and an ability to contribute to a culture of continuous improvement
• Experience of working for a learned or professional society (or other charitable organisation with trustees, committees and volunteers)
• Undergraduate level qualification

Person specification

• Excellent interpersonal skills, and a commitment to collaborative working across the Society
• Self-motivated, proactive, with the confidence to act independently and with a flexible approach
• A commitment to personal development and learning
• Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines, prioritising work accordingly
• Positivity and enthusiasm
• Commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion, reflecting the Society’s obligations as an equal opportunities employer

A bit about us …

The Geological Society is a registered charity and employs just under 60 staff at its offices in London and Bath. The Society Publishing House is based in Bath, from where we provide a full publishing service to an international geoscience community across a portfolio of books, journals, and associated products.

As an employee conscious company, we invest in our staff by emphasising training, growth and progression in every role. We firmly believe in creating a positive workplace wellbeing culture and offer a range of benefits to our staff including:

• 25 days basic holiday entitlement you start, increasing up to 30 days with continued service (pro-rated for part-time staff)
• Option to purchase up to 2 days extra holiday days per year
• Contributary pension scheme with 10% employer contribution
• Access to 24/7 online GP with mental health & wellbeing counselling
• Free premium Headspace account for you and 2 members of friends/family
• Discounts and recognitions scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Season Ticket Loan scheme
• Life Assurance and Income Protection schemes
• Free access to Royal Academy exhibitions
• Free Geological Society Fellow membership for qualified staff

The Society is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a harmonious inclusive environment in which the rights and dignity of all its members visitors and staff are respected. We are an equal opportunities employer and the post-holder will be expected to adhere to and support the Society’s commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion.

Role Purpose

This is an exceptional opportunity to join the Royal Hospital Chelsea as Assistant Director of Audience Engagement on a fixed term contract to cover maternity leave.  A core focus of the role is to develop the Royal Hospital Chelsea into a national heritage destination while ensuring our community of veterans remains at the heart of everything we do.

During this fixed term contract, you will be responsible for delivering our public engagement strategy, and drive visits to, and engagement with, the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s heritage, supporting sustained and manageable footfall and increased income through public programmes, secondary spend and commercial visitor opportunities.  

You will oversee the successful delivery and operation of the new Visitor Centre within the recently restored Soane Stable Yard, ensuring the visitor experience both onsite and digital is inspiring, inclusive, and impactful. You will also lead our contribution to the Chelsea Heritage Quarter, including co-delivering the annual Chelsea History Festival, working alongside key partners: the National Army Museum and Chelsea Physic Garden.

This role carries senior leadership responsibility, including line management of a talented team covering public programmes, community engagement, visitor experience, and retail. You are also responsible for managing RHC’s relationship with a café concession. You will work closely with colleagues across the Royal Hospital Chelsea and externally to grow our public reach and income potential, positioning the Royal Hospital Chelsea prominently within London’s cultural landscape and the wider heritage sector.

About You

We are looking for an inspiring, strategic leader with a proven track record in the heritage, museums, or visitor attraction sector. You will bring significant experience in audience engagement or similar roles, including at least five in a senior leadership or management capacity. You will be adept at developing and delivering public-facing programmes, and leading a high-performing, multidisciplinary team.

The successful candidate will be a creative thinker with excellent communication skills, a strong grasp of commercial opportunities, and the ability to develop inclusive strategies that attract core, target, and hard-to-reach audiences.

About Us.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners since 1692 provides both sheltered accommodation and full nursing care for up to 300 retired British Army veterans.

The ethos of the Royal Hospital is one that puts a premium on selflessness and companionship.  Our values of nurturing belonging, respect individuals, encourage pride and enjoy life underpin that ethos. We are united in a shared purpose, living and working together and ensuring everyone has a place in our diverse social and military community.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea is dedicated to equality, diversity, and inclusion, where all backgrounds and abilities can reach their full potential. We pride ourselves on attracting a wide range of talent, removing potential barriers, and promoting equal opportunities. We know, the more varied and inclusive our teams are, the better our organisation will be for our community. We are a Disability Confident employer dedicated to hiring diverse talent and ensuring you are treated with respect throughout the recruitment process and upon joining our community.

Our selection process.

Should your application be successful you will be invited to a formal interview, where you will be asked questions relating to your experiences and key requirements of the role. If you are successful after the interviews, we will:

• Ask for references from those you have listed on your application form
• Check your right to live and work in the UK
• Check any declarations you have made on your application form
• Ask you to complete a medical form
• Carry out an Enhanced DBS application.

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?
 
Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge? 
 
Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard? 
 
Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team in Cheshire West and Chester.  Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential.

About us 
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 
 
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website. 

About you
Desirably you will have some experience of working as an Advocate, providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?
You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development?
You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day. Advocates are expected to be willing to gain, or to already hold, the Level 3 Award in Independent Advocacy Practice with disciplines suitable for the role they work in.

Benefits 

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time colleagues) rising to 30 days upon 5 years’ service 
5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution 
Salary sacrifices pension scheme 
Separate Life Assurance Cover (equivalent of two times your annual salary) 
Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays, gym membership etc 
24/7 Employee Assistance programme 
Access to remote counselling service 
Paid Disability Leave 
Paid compassionate Leave 
Home Working Allowance  

Support with continuous professional development 

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development  
Personal Development Plans 

How are staff supported to work remotely? 

VoiceAbility has a small number of offices. Employees including Team Leaders are homebased for Administration and meetings will be held online as well as in person in the relevant community. 

When you need to travel for work, expenses will be paid (mileage or public transport costs).  

VoiceAbility offers the usual regular manager one to ones, Staff forums and communities of practice depending on role. Team meetings with a mix of virtual and in person approach.

Equality and Diversity
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please visit our vacancy page on our website.

How to apply
To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form. 

Important Dates:
Closing date for applications; 30 April 2025 Midnight 

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Want to know more about VoiceAbility and the role?
Please visit the vanacy page on our website

We look forward to hearing from you.

NB: If you don't already hold the Independent Advocacy Practice qualification, and you are successful in your application, it is a requirement that you complete the core element within 12 months of commencing the training.  VoiceAbility will fund this training.