Environment jobs
Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Bring your energy, creativity and expertise - and help us impact young people positively.
Location: Sherborne House, London (hybrid)
Salary: £52,535 per annum
Closing Date: 29 March, 2026
Employment Type: Permanent
Hours per week: 37.5
About the Role
Step into a role where your policy expertise drives real change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you’ll lead an ambitious strategy to influence national decision‑makers, shape legislation and ensure the voices of people affected by homelessness are impossible to ignore. You’ll turn insight into impact, championing our values while strengthening our political presence and public profile
You’ll build powerful relationships across Westminster, Whitehall and the wider sector, producing sharp briefings, commissioning research and delivering high‑profile events that elevate Depaul’s influence. Confident in the media and skilled at simplifying complex issues, you’ll work across teams to anticipate policy change, spark innovation and help drive forward our mission to end homelessness. If you’re driven, strategic and ready to make national change happen, this is your platform.
Key deliverables:
• Develop organisational policy positions on key strategic issues for Depaul UK, focusing on policy areas that matter for our client group including homelessness, housing, welfare, health and care leavers.
• Working with the Director of Development and External Affairs to deliver a multi-year policy and public affairs strategy, you will own its delivery, having demonstrable impact on policy through influencing legislation, as well as securing funding and commitments from the government .
• Work with the Executive Director of Fundraising and Communications and their team to improve Depaul’s public profile by giving us a louder political voice.
• Work with the Executive Director of Operations and their team to ensure Depaul is well positioned to respond to changes in policy and regulation.
• Work in partnership with Depaul UK’s Head of Data and Insights on research projects designed to influence policy.
• Monitor, analyse and report on policy developments which may impact on the work of Depaul UK.
• Provide high quality written and verbal briefings, reports and submissions to consultations.
• Work with senior colleagues to develop positive relationships for Depaul UK with ministers, senior officials, elected Mayors, Parliamentarians and with other policy influencers including our peers in the homeless sector.
• Ensure that the voices and experiences of clients are heard and understood to improve and change services delivered by Depaul, commissioners and policy makers.
• Give interviews to the media.
• Organise and coordinate events and meetings.
• Strengthen Depaul’s links with other voluntary sector organisations in the homelessness, youth and faith sectors.
• Contribute to Depaul International’s global influencing work.
What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)
When completing your application form please address all the areas below. Try to provide clear examples in your supporting statement that clarify how and when you gained the experience or knowledge as well as your level of capability.
To carry out this role we are looking for the following from you in terms of qualifications, experience, skills and competencies:
Knowledge
• Strong knowledge of the homelessness sector and policy context is desirable but not essential, it is essential that you have developed strong, specialist knowledge of a UK policy area or areas.
Experience and skills
• Having had demonstrable impact on government policy.
• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with Parliamentarians and officials
• Organising or helping to organise events, it is desirable but not essential that you have organised events in Parliament
• Leading projects with colleagues from different internal or external teams
• Delivering high quality verbal and written policy briefings and presentations to senior stakeholders
• Working with colleagues to secure media coverage
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work on own initiative and with low levels of supervision
• Ability to prioritise key tasks and manage conflicting priorities
• Ability to deliver to deadlines, sometimes at short notice
• Desirable - drafting and delivering policy and/or public affairs plans/strategies
• Desirable - representing organisations in the media and at events
You will need to be able to travel throughout the UK and on occasions work out of hours.
You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.
What You’ll Receive
• Tailored training and development
• Flexible working options where suitable
• 26 days annual leave, rising with service
• Family‑friendly leave policies
• Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
• Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more
• Cash health plan for you and your family
• Death‑in‑service benefit
• Access to legal and practical support
Safer Recruitment
Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.
About Depaul UK
In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.
What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.
As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.
Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Key information
Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 depending on experience (plus benefits)
Contract: Full time, 12-month fixed term contract, with potential for extension (part-time considered for the right candidate).
Location: UK based (remote); occasional UK travel for team meetings and events
Reports to: CEO
Closing date: Friday 10 April, 5pm
Right to work in the UK required
About FutureDotNow
FutureDotNow is a charity uniting business to close the UK workforce’s essential digital skills gap. We are the leading authority on workforce essential digital skills, with hundreds of organisations signed up to the Workforce Digital Skills Charter and direct reach to more than 2 million people. Yet over 22 million working-age adults still lack at least some digital basics. Closing that gap requires coordinated, high-quality delivery at scale.
FutureDotNow is bringing focus to the digital upskilling needs of working age adults, raising awareness and bringing specificity to the action required whatever sector or role people might work in. We work with business and government to surface and solve systemic issues and provide scalable solutions every organisation can use.
This new senior role sits at the intersection of marketing, communications and commercial development, owning the propositions, pipelines and channels through which we engage and support businesses. You’ll work closely with our CEO and COO and play a significant role shaping and delivering the organisation’s business model and financial sustainability.
Why this role matters
This is an exciting time for FutureDotNow as we enter a new phase of growth and delivery. We’re a small but mighty organisation with a reputation for making a difference. Our 5-year strategy is called Routes to 20 million for good reason. That’s the number of people of working age in the UK that don’t currently have all the essential digital skills and we are working to reach them at scale through their employers and other routes.
This new role will own and deliver FutureDotNow’s growth programme, increasing membership numbers, expanding Charter signatories and building a stronger, more diverse funding base. Ultimately, it’s all about action designed to increase the number of business helping people build their essential digital skills.
You’ll design and deliver strategies to raise awareness of what we call ‘the hidden middle’ among businesses and organisations in the UK. You’ll help businesses see the relevance, inspire them to want to help people of working age build the digital essentials, sell the benefits of being part of the FutureDotNow coalition and provide them with solutions that make doing that as easy as possible.
Key responsibilities
This role’s primary focus is developing our member value proposition and driving growth in both membership and Workforce Digital Skills Charter signatories.
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Charter & Membership Growth. You will design and execute strategies to significantly grow the number of companies who are signatories to the Workforce Digital Skills Charter and / or FutureDotNow members, alongside strategies that retain and engage the existing community.
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Membership management. You’ll own and manage the membership pipeline end-to-end, from inbound interest through to conversion, onboarding and retention. You will drive self-service into our processes so it’s easy for organisations to see the value and sign up as members and charter signatories, minimising the need for calls and meetings. For some organisations that extra bit of hand holding to get them over the line will be necessary and, in these circumstances, you’ll act as the front face of FutureDotNow.
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Member Value Proposition. You will shape and refine our value proposition to members, bringing the features and benefits to life in new and compelling ways that talk to the needs of business in their language. Effectively, you’ll be responsible for ‘productising’ our bank of reports and other resources into tools and solutions and identifying value that may have been overlooked. As part of this, you’ll maintain and develop the FutureDotNow’s training directory so it’s easy for employers to find high-quality training content that already exists.
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Organisational Maturity Framework Mapping. You’ll lead our work to position the Organisational Maturity Framework as a new way for businesses to understand the journey they may be on and position against peers (ideally creating FOMO along the way). You’ll own the first mapping of existing FutureDotNow tools and solutions to the Organisational Maturity Framework, prioritising quick wins that unlock member action, and developing this into a BAU process.
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Members Area. You will lead the strategy and delivery of our Members’ Area on the FutureDotNow website, defining the information architecture and content governance. You’ll use WordPress to add new content and keep existing content up-to-date and relevant. You’ll work closely with our Communications and Campaigns Manager to improve both the UX and value offer of the Member’s Area on our website, working with a third-party web development agency when required.
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Digital Strategies & Campaigns. You will be responsible for setting digital strategies to engage existing members and grow the pipeline of new members and Charter signatories. You’ll create and deliver digital content and campaigns (website, social, email etc.) that drive membership engagement and growth, working with our Communications and Campaigns Manager.
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Partner Engagement & Storytelling. You will establish efficient ways to engage with partner businesses and key stakeholders. You will work closely with our Communications and Campaigns Manager to create and deliver content that showcases what works and raises the profile of members, including case studies and other compelling content.
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Data, Insight & CRM. You’ll own our CRM (HubSpot). You’ll use our CRM data, website analytics and member feedback to manage and enhance our value proposition, track engagement, segment the audience, and drive continuous improvement. This will include setting KPIs and monitoring campaign performance and reporting.
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Empowering others. We have a significant community of influential organisations and individuals, and you’ll be responsible for developing and delivering content that enables us to work through them, making it easy for them to be advocates and encourage their peers to be part of the FutureDotNow coalition.
Skills, experience & attributes
We don’t have big budgets to play with, but we do have creative licence, huge energy for our mission and a powerful community of leading businesses on which to draw. So, we’re looking for an experienced growth-minded marketer, a self-starter with bundles of energy, who thinks strategically and can make things happen.
In return, we’ll offer you a brilliant platform to make a huge impact on a mission of national importance, with your work directly shaping national progress on digital skills.
Essential
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Strong marketing and sales skills, gained in an environment where success was measured by growth, uptake or revenue, not just outputs, (ideally in a coalition, charity, or industry body).
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Proven ability building acquisition and retention programmes. You’ll love getting to grips with all the content we have available, translating it into user journeys for our members, slicing and dicing it in new ways that speak to business challenges, and using it to create compelling messaging and campaigns.
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Strong stakeholder management skills including experience owning commercial conversations, influencing decisionmakers and converting interest into commitment.
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Strong CRM skills - ideally Hubspot as that’s the platform we use - and you’ll be comfortable using web and other analytics to drive improvement.
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Confident using a content management system (CMS), ideally WordPress to add and maintain website content.
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Strong end-to-end project delivery skills, including planning and reporting. You’ll be very organised and methodical, able to balance competing priorities and multiple streams of activity.
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You’ll be a clear communicator, adept at turning complex ideas into clear, motivating messages in line with brand voice.
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Experience working with senior leaders from a variety of industries and sectors.
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And of course you’ll have strong digital capabilities!
Desirable
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Experience of HubSpot and WordPress.
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Experience curating or product managing a content directory or learning catalogue.
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Knowledge of UK digital skills policy and employer led upskilling.
Mindset & values
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A self-starter; someone that drives for impact and results at pace.
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Enjoy working in a small, fast-paced organisation, with evolving priorities. Ambiguity won’t phase you. And because we don’t have big budgets (unless you really knock it out of the park and grow our member numbers even faster than we hope!) you’ll like getting stuck in and making a little go a very long way.
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Collaborative and purpose driven, relentlessly focused on practical action that drives FutureDotNow’s mission forward and helps employers make progress now.
Equality, diversity & inclusion
We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the UK workforce and to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive. If you’re excited by this role but don’t meet 100% of the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you.
Application Process
Our application process is designed to be straightforward and proportionate, while giving candidates a clear opportunity to demonstrate their skills.
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Stage 1: Submit a CV and short cover note outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience.
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Stage 2: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a short initial interview.
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Stage 3: Candidates progressing from the first interview will be asked to complete a short practical task, reflecting the type of work involved in the role.
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Stage 4: A final shortlist will be invited to a final interview.
We aim to keep the process clear, fair and respectful of candidates’ time.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job title: Head of Finance & Business Services
Reports to: Director of Operations
Salary: In the region of £39,000. Flexible based on experience and qualifications
Location: Hybrid
Hours: Full time – 37.5 hours over 5 days
Objective:
2wish exists to provide support to anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a child or young person aged 25 and under.
Aims:
- Ensure every Emergency Department and Critical Care unit has a suitable bereavement suite
- Ensure that bereavement boxes are available at each of these hospitals
- Ensure that immediate bereavement support is available for all affected by the sudden death of a child or young person
- Provide a professional counselling service and other therapies for those affected by the sudden death of a child or young person
- Provide support to individuals who witness the sudden death of a child or young person
- Provide support and training to professionals from any sector who may be affected by the sudden death of a child or young person
- To advocate and campaign on behalf of suddenly bereaved families
2wish Cymru and 2wish:
2wish has been established since 2012 and has since grown from strength to strength. During this time, we have worked tirelessly to embed our service and ensure that the offer of support is made at the point of death.
We offer an immediate, consistent, high-quality and compassionate service to all individuals affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a child or young person aged 25 and under. We work in partnership with professionals who refer into the charity on behalf of families, so they don’t have to trawl through the internet for an organisation who may, or may not, be able to support. We provide immediate, and ongoing, support and are here for as long as our families need us.
We were founded as a Welsh organisation providing immediate casework support, as well as ongoing aftercare services including counselling, alternative therapies, play therapy, support groups, support events and a respite cottage.
In January 2024, we expanded into ‘phase one’ England, namely Cheshire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Somerset. And in July 2025 we expanded into ‘phase two’ England, namely Merseyside, Devon and Cornwall, Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Context of role:
The Headof Finance & Business Services will be a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for ensuring the charity is financially sustainable, legally compliant and operationally efficient.
This role provides strategic oversight of finance, governance, HR, IT, facilities, risk management, and business administration, enabling the charity to deliver its mission effectively and responsibly.
Line management responsibilities, including Business Services Officer and Finance and Administration Officer.
Key responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Act as a senior advisor to the CEO and Board of Trustees on financial strategy, organisational performance, risk, and governance.
- Lead on the development and implementation of long-term financial plans, budgets, and business services strategies.
- Contribute to organisational planning, change management, and culture-building across the charity.
Financial Management
- Oversee all aspects of financial management, including grants and foundations, forecasting, management accounts, statutory accounts, and cashflow.
- Ensure accurate financial reporting in compliance within the Charity SORP, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
- Lead on financial risk management, reserve’s policy, investment planning, and financial controls.
- Oversee payroll, pension administration, procurement, and contract management.
- Support fundraising colleagues with financial modelling, grant budgets, and reporting to funders.
Business Services Oversight
- Lead and develop the business services function, which include IT, facilities, data protection and health & safety.
- Oversee HR policies, employee relations, recruitment processes, and wellbeing initiatives with the support of our HR consultants.
- Ensure reliable IT systems, digital security, and effective use of Microsoft 365 and organisational software with the support of our IT consultants ITCS.
- Manage the Business Services Officer who oversees office facilities, leases, equipment, and supplier relationships.
- Hold line management responsibilities for our Business Services Officer and Finance and Administration Officer.
Leadership and People Management
- Provide inspirational leadership to finance and business services staff.
- Support a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, compassion, and teamwork.
- Champion organisational values, equity, diversity, and inclusion in all areas of operations
General:
- To be responsible for organising own work agenda, time management and administration.
- To adhere to all company policies and procedures including Safeguarding, Confidentiality, Health and Safety and Lone Working; and to be proactive in implementing new safe working practices as appropriate.
- To attend weekend and evening community events in support of the charity as necessary.
- Participate as and when required in team meetings and one-to-one meetings, and undertake, as appropriate, courses/training/other developmental activities, which is relevant to the role.
It is the nature of the work that tasks and responsibilities are in may circumstances unpredictable and varied. All employees are therefore expected to work in a flexible way and tasks, which are not specifically covered in their job description may have to be undertaken.
You will be subject to performance review, which will incorporate a review of the above duties and performance over the period.
This role is subject to a DBS check.
Person specification:
Essential
- Fully or part qualified in accountancy or qualified by experience (QBE).
- Proven financial leadership experience within the third sector or a, challenging values-driven organisation.
- Strong understanding of charity finance, including SORP, restricted/unrestricted, designated funds, grant applications and reporting.
- Experience of managing governance, risk, compliance, and business administrative functions.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship building skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively whilst providing strong challenge and professional insight.
- Demonstrable commitment to the mission and values of 2wish.
- Assist with compliance of the Equality Act, Employment Rights Act / Bill & General Data Protection Regulations.
Desirable
- Experience supporting or working alongside a Board of Trustees.
- Experience leading digital transformation or implementing new systems.
- Understanding bereavement-support environments
What we do for you:
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Normal office hours are 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, although alternative hours may be worked with line manager agreement. Work outside office hours may sometimes be necessary and will be compensated for by time off in lieu.
Annual leave: 28 days plus bank holidays. Annual leave steadily increases after five years of service. Annual leave and statutory holidays are calculated on a pro rata basis where applicable.
Pension: 2wish operate a contributory pension scheme. 2wish will auto-enrol you into the scheme in accordance with it’s auto-enrolment obligations. Full details of the scheme will be provided to you once you are enrolled, including the minimum level of contributions that you will be required to make during your membership (current contributions – employer 3% and employee 5%).
Mileage: A fixed rate allowance is payable for agreed mileage undertaken on 2wish business in a private vehicle, over and above your usual journey to your workplace/s.
Additional benefits for our employees:
- An ‘Employee Assistance Programme, ‘ including wellbeing support
- Free parking on 2wish premises
- Free branded 2wish clothing
- An extra annual leave day on your birthday
- Incremental increase in holiday entitlement based on length of service
- Paid sick leave
- Discounts for personal purchases on 2wish Merchandise
- Discounted tickets to UK 2wish events for staff and family
- Extra holiday entitlement when taking part in 2wish overseas events
- Company mobile phone for performance of duties
- Tools/equipment required for the performance of duties
- Reimbursement of work expenses
- Bright Exchange employee discounts
- Auto-enrolment into company contributory pension scheme after 3 months service
How to apply:
Please return a CV and covering letter, or a CV and two-minute video,.
Closing date: Friday 3rd April 2026
Thank you very much for your interest in the role. Please note, if you do not hear from us within ten working days of the closing date, you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Citizens UK
Citizens UK is the UK’s biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems.
Project Information
Butetown and Grangetown Neighbourhood Fund project, funded by the Youth Endowment Fund. More details here: Neighbourhood Fund | Youth Endowment Fund
Citizens Cymru Wales has developed an innovative approach to reducing youth violence with community organising at its heart, working across four unique assumptions:
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‘It takes a village to raise a child’
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‘Anger without power leads to rage’
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‘Recognising the need to address Adverse Community Experiences’
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‘If you are not at the table, you’re on the menu’
In 2021 it developed a community led action plan to address youth violence in the neighbourhoods of Butetown and Grangetown. This work then secured £1m funding from the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) to demonstrate how community organising can improve the lives of children and young people. Across Grangetown and Butetown, almost 2500 people were listened to, and issues workshops took place from which seven interventions were identified including Mental health, Additional Learning Needs and Literacy, an Employment partnership, Sports and diversionary activities and local microgrants. Each intervention is led by a local community-based organisation. At the heart of the work is building a hyperlocal community organising alliance. Underpinning the work is the development of a Youth Action Zone, a youth-led multi-agency partnership to support young people in the neighbourhood for the long term. The project is in its final year of delivery and needs a locally based project manager to support the current organisations to fulfil the action plan and build a long-term legacy.
Main Responsibilities
This is a unique role, focused on project management but embedding community organising. As project organiser for Butetown and Grangetown Neighbourhood Fund you will support the project aims, enabling core partners and intervention leads to fulfil the action plan and build a legacy for the long term. Alongside this, you will develop a craft of community organising, working closely with civic organisations based in the neighbourhoods, understanding local power and building partnerships with wider stakeholders, and developing local institutions and youth leaders. All of this should ladder up to building the power of the broader Cardiff Citizens alliance.
You will embed the ethos of community organising across the project and its legacy by:
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developing the leadership of people within local organisations - our 'leaders' who lead the campaigns we work on
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helping them to collectively identify the changes they want to see and create strategies to win those changes
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strengthen institutions’ own abilities to achieve their missions.
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Support leaders in connecting the hyperlocal work to the Cardiff Citizens alliance – developing their capacity to work with other leaders and civic institutions across the city to develop collective ambitions and actions (leading up to the 2027 Local Authority elections).
We envisage the role to be roughly 2 days project management and 1 day Community Organising, but given the nature of the project, these will naturally bleed into one another.
Working as the Project Organiser for Citizens UK, your main responsibilities will include:
Career Pathways Headings
Build and manage projects and achieve work targets effectively
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Project manage the YEF/Citizens UK Neighbourhood Fund project in the neighbourhoods of Butetown and Grangetown
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Support the delivery of four interventions (Mental health, ALN & Literacy/Sports and Police action team) including due diligence, accountability, measurement and impact monitoring.
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Ensure good governance; setting up stakeholder meetings and working with community leaders to develop the agenda and actions
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Develop an understanding of place-based systems change and support system behaviours across the project, including feedback, collaborative leadership and shared power
Develop and manage external relationships
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Maintain and extend local relationships and partnerships with community and civic organisations and wider statutory power
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Map and develop an ecosystem of strategic relationships at the local level
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Ensure the YEF work is embedded within the local ecosystem of support for young people.
Communications
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Support the interventions with communicating the impact of their work individually and collectively
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Create comms outputs that communicate the work of the YEF project for internal and external stakeholders
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Represent the organisation effectively to external audiences in meetings and at events
Generate income and resources
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Support the interventions to seek additional funding to continue their work beyond 2027
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Support local organisations to increase their capacity
Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good and support them through a cycle of action and training in our curriculum
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Conduct 5 relational one-to-ones per week
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Identify and discern actual and potential leaders with the passion and ability to drive change
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Achieve significant development of primary and secondary leaders; nominate new leaders for training on the Citizens UK core taster curriculum and for National Training
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Attend Citizens UK 6-day training to further understanding the method of Community Organising used by CUK
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Teach sessions of the core taster Community Organising curriculum at a local level (supported by a senior Organiser)
Strengthen institutions and develop a broad-based neighbourhood alliance
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Ensure good understanding of the basic interests and traditions of typical member institutions
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Support the development of the Cardiff Citizens alliance
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Support with running institutional development campaigns in a range of organisations in the local area
Personal Specification
(D) Desirable, (E) Essential
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in any subject (D)
Qualification in a subject of relevance to community work or community organising (D)
Experience
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Evidence of having acted in a leadership role with peers or in local community activities (e.g., organising clubs or societies) (E)
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Experience of project management; evidence of having set up and/or delivered projects on time and to standard (E)
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Able to demonstrate previous experience of ‘learning by doing’ in a work or project environment; evidence of being open to feedback and comfortably coachable (E)
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Experience of building consensus between diverse stakeholders to drive progressive change (D)
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Previous campaign experience (D)
Key skills and knowledge
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Excellent interpersonal awareness – ability to listen well and appreciate a viewpoint or opinion that is different from one’s own (E)
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Excellent concern for impact – ability to adapt own behaviour to address the needs or concerns of someone else (E)
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Good communication skills – able to speak with conviction and passion; and to make a logical argument (E)
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Excellent time management skills with the ability to juggle a wide range of competing demands (E)
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Strong IT skills to include MS Office (E)
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Understanding of policy and campaign landscape in the UK, particularly around young people, community empowerment and neighbourhoods (D)
Personal qualities & values
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A self-starter with ability to take initiative and work independently (E)
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A passion for justice (E)
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A positive enthusiasm for working with faith congregations, trade unions, schools, and other community organisations (E)
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An interest in and experience of politics and public life (E)
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Able to work in a team (E)
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Willingness to work within accountable relationships (E)
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Self-motivated and adaptable (E)
Our Organisers and some project teams work closely with our member institutions and will be expected to attend member events that take place in the evenings and occasional weekends. We operate a Time Off in Lieu approach and have very flexible working arrangements to ensure a good work-life balance.
The successful applicant will be required to undertake a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check. DBS checks are renewed on a 3-year cycle.
About the application process
We work within diverse communities bringing people together. In line with our Inclusion value, we would love to see applications from LGBTQIA+ people, people from racialised communities, people living with disabilities and people of faith, all to better represent the communities we work in. We want our employees to have the working conditions that allows them to fully participate, be able to be their best authentic selves and thrive doing so, and we have employee networks to support staff. Even if you don’t quite meet all the required criteria still consider applying, as we invest in our employees and support them to develop the skills and knowledge required to deliver their role.
For questions and reasonable adjustments regarding your application including information in a different format, or our recruitment process, please email us.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Key Information:
LOCATION: Bristol, Newcastle, Nottingham, London and Manchester (hybrid working pattern). We are prioritising applications for the Nottingham and Newcastle locations in line with our regional development strategy.
HOURS: 37.5 hours per week (flexible working around core hours of 10am-4pm)
START DATE: 10th August 2026
DURATION: 18-month graduate programme with optional apprenticeship opportunity upon completion. Permanent contract from August 2026.
SALARY: £27,375 per annum (Bristol, Manchester, Nottingham and Newcastle), £30,025 (London).
DEADLINE: Thursday 2nd April at 12pm (noon).
The application process: written application > video interview > assessment centre.
Assessment Centres will take place between 20th April and 8th May 2026. They will be conducted on Zoom and consist of 3 tasks: An interview, a written exercise and a group task (with up to 3 other candidates)
In keeping with upReach's mission and values we would particularly encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented groups and those with lived experience of barriers to social mobility.
We encourage all applicants to review our Application Pack before submitting your application.
About upReach
Do you think that your socio-economic background should determine your career prospects?
upReach’s vision is of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential. Our work is important because right now a student from a disadvantaged background who gains a first-class degree from a top university is less likely to secure an elite job than a more privileged student with a 2.2.
We are an award-winning charity employer working to address this issue in partnership with employers and universities. We help undergraduates from lower socio-economic backgrounds achieve their career potential by providing an intensive programme of support that addresses socio-economic barriers to graduate employment.
To find out more about how we support our students, visit our website and read our Annual Report, and Impact Report.
About the FCLP
upReach is recruiting for our unique Future Charity Leaders Programme (FCLP). This is a great opportunity for anyone who is passionate about social mobility, and looking to gain exposure to various aspects of charity management whilst working with university students who are exploring their career options. We welcome applications from those in the corporate world who are looking for a career change as well as recent graduates wanting to kick-start their career in the third sector.
upReach’s Future Charity Leaders Programme (FCLP) combines delivery work (supporting our Associates) with exposure to a range of aspects of charity management.
As a Programme Coordinator on the FCLP, you will deliver personalised, employment-focused support to a cohort of approximately 80 Associates, helping to transform their lives by equipping them with the necessary skills to secure a top graduate job. During a typical week, you should expect to be working across a range of projects including:
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1:1 undergraduate coaching
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Events organisation
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Application support
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Partnership management (with university partners or employer partners)
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and more!
In addition to this, the programme offers the opportunity to develop skills in key areas of charity management by participating in 3 rounds of six-month 'rotations' across different functions. After your initial 18 months and the completion of 3, six-month rotations, you will have the opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship in Leadership and Management to further develop your skills and gain a level 3 qualification.
Throughout the programme, you will receive dedicated internal training developing your leadership skills and building your confidence in the role.Through our partnership with The Circle Line, you will be part of a supportive peer group, offered regular personal development training workshops online and in-person on their '12 Tools for Life'. You will also be able to choose your own practitioner to support you in 1:1 sessions throughout the programme to help you unlock more of your unique potential.
What will I be doing?
The FCLP is a fast-paced but rewarding role. Programme Coordinators spend 80% of their time (4 days per week) working directly with Associates to enhance their career knowledge and skills and 20% (1 day per week) on a charity management rotation (or an apprenticeship after 18 months). No two days are the same, but your responsibilities may include:
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Building and maintaining strong relationships with Associates, helping them to achieve their career goals
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Developing and delivering professional development-focused support
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Individual and small group work with Associates
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Assisting Associates with their applications to undergraduate positions and graduate jobs
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Developing sector and/or employability skill knowledge while building resources to aid all Associates
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Developing and maintaining strong relationships with university and/or employer partners
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Delivering informative workshops to enhance sector knowledge and employability skills
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Planning, delivering and reporting on events and workshops with partners
When applying for this role we ask that applicants are able to commit to the full 18-month training programme, and we encourage participation in the apprenticeship scheme beyond this. As you will be working directly with our beneficiaries throughout their degree, this consistency will allow you to build bonds with your Associates and ensure continuity, thus allowing us to have the most impact for the young people we work with.
What Skills and Experience do I need?
This programme would be suited to individuals who are committed to upReach’s mission, motivated to work with undergraduates and interested in learning about, and gaining experience in, charity management. We are looking for people who are passionate about social mobility and believe that background should not be a barrier to graduate employment.
Essential Skills/Experiences:
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Working in a fast-paced environment and working independently to find solutions to problems
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Strong organisational and time management skills with a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage a varied workload
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A University degree in any discipline, or equivalent experience
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Self-motivation and an ability to work in a small team as well as solo
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Excellent communication skills and strong written English
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The ability to engage and communicate confidently with undergraduates, corporate volunteers (mentors) and employers via phone, email, and in person
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Confidence with public speaking or facilitating workshops
Desirable Skills/Experiences:
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Knowledge of the graduate labour market in the UK and experience supporting individuals through an application process
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Working in one or more of the career sectors that upReach support Associates in applying to.
Team Culture & Benefits:
By joining the upReach team, you will be joining a team who are dedicated to encouraging you in your career journey and fostering an inclusive culture.
We offer:
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Flexible working, hybrid working and reduced Summer Hours (June-August)
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Statutory Holiday Entitlement of 25 days, plus bank holidays. (This increases to 27 days entitlement after 2.5 years and then to 30 days after 5 years of working with us)
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Enhanced Parental Leave beyond statutory requirements for all team members
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1 day of Birthday leave, 1 day of Volunteering leave and discretionary annual wellbeing days
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Optional extended unpaid leave
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3% Pension Contribution, this increases to 5% after 5 years of working with us
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Cycle-to-work scheme, Tech scheme
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Monthly socials, Annual in-person Team Day
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Dedication to Staff Wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aid Training
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A range of discounts through the Charity Workers Discount and Tickets for Good websites
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The opportunity to participate in our fantastic staff networks:
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Disability and Inclusion Network
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Diverse Roots Network
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Green Network
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LGBTQ+ Network
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Mindfulness Network
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Parents and Carers Network
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Socio-Economic Background Network
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(Im)Migrants Network
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Ready to apply?
We are dedicated to making our recruitment process inclusive. All applications will be blind screened, and our job packs are available in Braille, large text or another format upon request. We can provide reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment application process and on the job, and we'll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible.
Unfortunately, upReach is unable to offer Visa Sponsorship.
Applications close at 12pm on Thursday 2nd April
Equal Opportunities
At upReach, we are committed to being an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate in employment matters on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability, social background or any other protected class. We celebrate and value the diverse perspectives that people from all backgrounds bring to our team. We are passionate about creating a workplace that is inclusive and reflects the diversity of communities across the UK. Thus, we encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian and other ethnic minority backgrounds, those with disabilities, those who are care-experienced, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, and those who are LGBTQIA+.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The HR team is committed to the attraction and retention of a highly engaged and performing workforce that is committed to delivering our vision to see isolated communities changed by the love of Christ. We do this by nurturing a supportive and encouraging environment, where strong relationships are built, personal growth, innovation and creativity are encouraged, and performance achieved.
As our new Talent Acquisition Manager, you will be doing exactly that. You will drive the recruitment operations for placements for both UK and overseas staff, leading the team and taking ownership and responsibility to execute a best-in-class candidate experience.
The Talent Acquisition Manager will lead recruitment for us in support of our strategic goals in this area, partnering with hiring managers and offering innovative and creative advice and solutions on how to attract and recruit the best talent available. This is a managerial role that requires strong decision making and the ability to drive the department forward progressively, but still very much a position where you will be expected roll your sleeves up and take a hands-on approach to deliver first-rate talent for the organisation, and experience for our candidates. You will oversee all recruitment activity passing through the UK office, owning our ATS and line managing the Talent Acquisition Officer.
1. Talent Acquisition Strategy
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the talent acquisition strategy, with a strategic focus on digital optimisation, to ensure improving placements for both UK and overseas roles.
- Oversee and deliver all employer brand initiatives and recruitment campaigns including hiring events to drive candidate engagement and boost our employer brand.
- Build diverse candidate pools, and create initiatives to attract and retain diverse talent.
- Develop and analyse our recruitment metrics, and use your knowledge, market insights, numbers and analysis to continually refine and improve the talent acquisition process using a data-led approach.
- Offer a clear, supportive and innovative voice in interactions with international colleagues to streamline processes and ensure seamless, effective collaboration.
- Use creative and innovative approaches to continue to reach new candidate audiences in a narrow field.
- Continuously review our process to drive improvements and change, especially through the use of emergent technologies.
- Work closely with colleagues in our youth outreach programme ‘Co-Pilot’ to develop, maximise and harmonise our approach in bringing a younger demographic into our talent pools, incorporating this relationship into our strategy.
2. Transactional Recruitment Management
- Create and deliver an annual international recruitment action and promotional plan
- Work in close collaboration with our marketing team in the promotion and delivery of recruitment advertising including online/offline and social media campaigns and analysing results to inform planning and performance improvements. Ensure that the recruitment message remains central throughout our range of communications activities and that our voice is clear, compelling and interactsand synergizes seamlessly with our existing central campaign operations
- Monitoring, reviewing, and developing the recruitment pages on our website to maximize engagement
- Being responsible for the discernment and wisdom required to undertake spiritual personal and assessments, refining a clear and robust framework to ensure a fair and consistent candidate experience.
- Overseeing the development and maintenance of physical resources for overseas recruitment
- Representing MAF throughout the year at festivals and other events within the UK as a passionate and compelling advocate
- Initiating high quality recruitment events in various forums throughout the year, focusing on producing a clear ROI
- Leading in the development of the Online Recruitment Journey
- Leading in the recruitment of UK roles
- Training and supporting UK managers with hiring responsibilities in effective recruitment techniques and selection processes, ensuring that colleagues are coached and upskilled to sufficiently assist in the delivery of an efficient campaign.
- Review the workflow of the recruitment process to ensure that the workload requirement for managers supporting the process is mitigated and manageable, whilst maintaining their engagement in the process.
- Work with the UK and International HR Managers to support a seamless onboarding process for all joiners
3. Overseeing our selection processes to ensure the progression of suitably skilled applicants who meet our faith, vision, and values criteria
- Designing and implementing robust, efficient, and personable selection processes that deliver an excellent candidate experience
- Overseeing MAF UK’s assessment processes and assisting with interviews where required
- Liaising with MAF International (MAFI) to discuss candidates’ potential fit for overseas roles
- Managing our use of UK psychometric assessment
4. Envisioning and delivering new initiatives to attract and build our talent pipeline
- Overseeing and driving proactive digital acquisition using LinkedIn and other platforms
- Working with other teams to design and deliver creative, engaging, and high-quality recruitment campaigns and promotional initiatives
- Raising awareness and leveraging team support for recruitment initiatives
- Establishing, developing, and sustaining collaborative relationships with key external bodies e.g., Christian bodies within the aviation industry, armed forces, and universities
- Selecting, training, and managing a network of volunteer recruitment champions, increasing the scale of our capacity to support at events and build a greater presence in the community specifically from a recruitment perspective
- Designing and implementing approaches to encourage greater diversity with applicants
- Demonstrating a data-led approach, monitoring recruitment statistics and measures to inform decision making, identify issues and prepare management information reports.
5. Partnership
- Building strong relationships with the MAFI recruitment team and proactively sharing resources, experience, and expertise with Engagement Units
- Member of the MAFI Recruitment Steering Group
- Establishing or contributing to recruitment learning circles with other Engagement Units
- Support efforts to integrate into one global entity from a recruitment perspective
- Contribute to the launch and maintenance of the Mission Aviation Academy, to continue to enhance our employer brand around our training schemes and ensure a sustainable funding pipeline for them for the future
6. Management
- Overall management of the relationship portfolios and specific management of ‘Premium’ enquirers portfolio
- Line manage, coach, develop and champion the Talent Acquisition Officer
- Participating in MAF UK organisation development initiatives and policy review
- Managing own time effectively to maximize organisational benefit
- Lead on the overall management and administration of the Applicant Tracking System
7. Legal, finance and professional
- Maintaining a high level of legal awareness and ensuring our legal obligations are maintained throughout the recruitment process
- Preparing and managing the recruitment budget
- Modeling self-leadership through continual professional development
8. Travel
- This role will involve some travel within the United Kingdom, particularly around the events season.
Other duties as may reasonably be assigned by the Director of People and Culture including covering for other members of the team as required.
DIMENSION AND LIMITS OF AUTHORITY:
- Expenditure up to agreed budget.
- Responsible for managing the Talent Acquisition Officer and conducting regular 1-1s and Personal Development Reviews according to agreed standards.
- Decision making within agreed parameters.
TASKS COMMON TO ALL MANAGERS:
- Role modelling of organisational values and beliefs
- Contributing to the shared spiritual life of the MAF UK team as a Christian mission
- Attendance and participation in team and corporate times of biblical reflection and prayer
- Encouraging team members to attend, participate and lead in times of Biblical reflection at regular corporate prayer meetings
- Participate in planning in accordance with the MAF UK strategic plan and as outworked through matrix programme and project teams
- Keeping line manager informed of all relevant information in a timely manner
- Complying with statutory and organisational requirements for the proper handling of personal and sensitive data and ensuring good personal data handling practices are developed, reviewed, and encouraged
- Abiding by Safeguarding, Conduct and other MAF UK policies provided on the Intranet.
CHRISTIAN VALUES, BELIEFS AND ETHOS:
As a Christian mission, MAF UK seeks staff who share in the evangelical Christian values and beliefs as described in the mission, purpose, values, and beliefs statements.All staff will be required to actively support and demonstrate the Christian values of the organisation and to take part in organisational activities such as staff devotions, prayer meetings, and fellowship days.
Location: Hybrid working with the requirement to work in the UK offices in either Folkestone or Cranfield.
Working Hours:Office open officially from 9.00 to 5.30pm (9-4pm on Friday). Hours to be agreed according to flexible working policy.
Salary:£48,500
Terms:
Hours: As a senior appointment at least 36 hours per week but in addition those required to achieve the agreed responsibilities, with a one-hour unpaid lunch break each day.
Flexibility will be required for working additional hours and travel to meet business needs or for travel or meetings on weekends or evenings.
This role involves some unsocial hours, weekend work and travel within the UK
Leave:Annual leave entitlement of 22 days per year plus eight paid public holidays per year.
Pension: Non-contributory pension scheme (10%) of salary on joining.
Additional Benefits:
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for free, confidential support on personal and professional issues.
- Death in Service/Life Assurance scheme.
- Free on-site parking at our offices.
Probationary and notice period:
- 6-month probation period with mid-term review
- Notice period is 3 months.
Closing Date for Applications 22nd March
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Partnerships Officer (Programme Officer)
Aga Khan Foundation
The position
AKF(UK) Partnerships Officers are part of the Global Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) Partnerships team tasked with identifying funding partnerships and strengthening existing ones to support our strategic goals. Partnerships Officers manage a set of grants across a variety of themes and geographies. They also support engagement with European and Asian bilaterals, multilaterals and foundations to secure funding for ten multi-sector not-for-profit and for-profit agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) operating across Asia and Africa. This is all done in close collaboration with field units, global teams, and our partners.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND CORE TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
Grants Management
- Manage a portfolio of grants through regular interface and coordination with AKF(UK)’s partnerships team, AKF(UK)’s programme finance team and relevant AKF/AKDN field units/agencies acting as a central resource for field units in donor best practice.
- Interface with donors about the implementation of ongoing grants to ensure strong, enduring relationships.
- Coordinate, review, and assure the quality of donor deliverables (e.g. work plans, monitoring and evaluation plans, staffing plans, budgets, close-out plans, donor troubleshooting).
- Ensure adherence with donor requirements, rules, and regulations, and that grant deliverables are produced on time and to a high standard.
- Coordinate contractual amendments, changes, and project adaptations, engage with donors in a pro-active and diplomatic way, and flag potential changes (e.g. budget revisions, extensions, risks) in advance to ‘trouble shoot’ and ensure smooth project implementation.
- Facilitate grant monitoring efforts including routine coordination meetings and as needed, support with donor steering committees, donor project visits, and donor monitoring missions.
- Undertake coordination and administrative tasks related to grants and support the maintenance and update of grant management tools and tracking systems (e.g. Award Information Management System (AIMS)).
- Ensure strong relationship cultivation throughout the grants cycle, anticipate, and plan for future funding and project extensions.
Resource Mobilisation
- Coordinate and facilitate the development, review and quality assurance of expressions of interest, concept notes, and full proposals for funding opportunities.
- Liaise and coordinate with internal stakeholders as well as with donors, partners, and consortia to facilitate project design, align proposal and donor requirements, gather required legal and administrative documentation, and draft sections of proposals as needed.
Coordinate processes of contracting and negotiation, engaging relevant stakeholders, and ensuring contracts ‘get over the line’ in a timely and efficient way.
- Conduct due diligence of new partners (donors, NGOs, universities, etc.) in coordination with AKF(UK)’s programme finance team and AKF’s global programmes team.
- Develop and contribute to positioning pieces and communication materials (e.g., presentations, narrative overviews) to enable regular and effective engagement with donors.
- Research, scan and source relevant information regarding new donors and funding opportunities to identify potential funding matches and gather intelligence around European and Asian donors.
- Update donor profiles, researching and summarising latest donor strategies and using AIMS to update AKF/AKDN funding summaries.
- Contribute to management systems, such as AIMS.
Carry out any other duties as assigned by the Senior Partnerships Manager, Deputy Regional Directors or Global Deputy Director for Institutional Partnerships.
The requirements
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, BEHAVIOURS, ATTRIBUTES
Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree essential
- Master’s degree in a relevant field preferred
Skills
- Strong level of fluency in French is highly desirable
- Creativity, critical thinking, and project management
- Entrepreneurial, pro-active self-starter with maturity and emotional intelligence
- Ability to problem-solve, work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with numerous and competing deadlines
- Ability to handle complex relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders in a professional manner
- Excellent writing, speaking and other communications skills, with thoroughness and attention to detail
- Ability to provide stable, consistent, reliable and courteous communication when dealing with external organisations, senior colleagues and community members
- Strong financial literacy, including the ability to read and produce detailed budgets and business plans
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office 365 and Salesforce
- French language skills desirable, but not essential
- Proficiency in French language desirable
Knowledge
- Understanding and knowledge of the UK/European and Asian donor landscape preferred
- Knowledge of and commitment to international development
Experience
- A minimum of 3 years of professional experience
- Experience in developing and writing proposals, developing budgets, business plans/cases, concept papers, briefs, executive summaries, as well as coordinating multiple inputs from a variety of sources
- Experience of managing relationships in complex organisations with numerous stakeholders
- Experience managing grants in complex organisations desirable
Attributes
- Committed to international development, improving the quality of life, and promoting pluralism through civil society.
- Demonstrates equity, transparency, and integrity with high personal and organisational ethical standards; is fair, honest, and trustworthy with respect for confidentiality; inspires and builds trust and respect from others; promotes credibility and professional reputation.
Behaviours
- Communicates clearly and concisely with a broad range of audiences at different levels; ability to expresses complex ideas and concepts in simple terms; listens to the views of others; changes communication styles to meet individual and audience needs; encourages dialogue and effective communication by others.
- Builds, maintains, and deepens constructive and effective relationships with stakeholders with a specific focus on AKF’s mission; balances business situations and the art of dealing with people and communities; changes approach to achieve desired results if required.
- Has a customer focused orientation to others, is flexible and always puts the good of others at the centre of decision making; optimises respect for others and is dedicated to AKF’s purpose and fulfilling the mission.
- Acknowledges creativity, has the desire to understand and use new innovations (including technology); adapts established methods for new uses; is focused on improving systems and processes; open to change; analyses, synthesises and challenges conventional thinking; supports the development of communities of practice.
FURTHER DETAILS
- The role will involve travel to countries where we operate programmes, and where the candidate is supporting grants management.
- As well as a rewarding role with a global international development organisation, you’ll get access to a wide range of enhanced benefits including but not limited to flexible hybrid working, enhanced leave entitlement and access to several health and wellbeing programmes and benefits.
- Must include CV and a supporting statement that outlines why you want the role, why you want to work for AKF(UK) and how your experiences and skills to date make you the most suitable applicant for the role.
Sector
Social Development
About the Agency
The Aga Khan Foundation is a leading global development organisation working to tackle the root causes of poverty. For more than 50 years, we have helped create strong community institutions that support sustainable, locally driven initiatives to improve the lives of millions of people. By combining local knowledge with global best practices, we strive to bring about transformative and long-lasting improvements to quality of life.
Working alongside the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network and through partnerships with local communities, civil society and business as well as governments and international aid agencies, we are building a future where we all thrive together.
Job Expires: 25-Mar-2026
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Starting Date: ASAP
Contract type: Full-time and open-ended
Salary: If based in London - £62,707, Delhi - INR 3,350,997, Lahore - PKR 8,697,613, Abidjan - €3,636 per month
Location: London, Lahore, Delhi, Côte d'Ivoire
Application closing date: 25th March 2026
About the Job
The Grant Programme Manager is responsible for overseeing a portfolio of grant-funded projects across multiple sub-funds and geographies. Working closely with programme partners, this role ensures that funded projects not only produce certified Better Cotton but also deliver measurable impact aligned with BCI’s strategic targets. The role includes stewardship and oversight of significant donor funding and accountability for strong financial, performance and compliance standards across the portfolio.
Are you purpose-led and ready to embark on a journey to shape the future of sustainable cotton? Join us at Better Cotton Initiative as Grant Programme Manager and play a key role in delivering high-impact funding programmes for the world’s largest cotton sustainability initiative. We support more sustainable farming practices and farm livelihoods for nearly 1.6 million farmers across 15 countries.
The Challenge
Looking ahead to 2030, BCI is targeting a 50 percent reduction in GHG emissions from cotton production, significant reductions in synthetic pesticide use, improved soil health across our network, increased farm income and stronger support for women’s empowerment among farmers and farm workers.
As a Grant Programme Manager, you will oversee a multi-country grant portfolio, ensure strong financial stewardship, drive performance against strategic targets and strengthen partnerships with programme partners and donors.
Responsibilities
We are seeking a motivated Grant Programme Manager to join our Global Programmes team within GIF. In this role, you will be responsible for managing a complex grant portfolio and ensuring effective delivery, financial oversight and strategic alignment.
- Oversee and manage a portfolio of Small Farm Fund projects across multiple countries, ensuring delivery against BCI strategy and BCSS targets.
- Lead grant application and assessment processes, including reviewing proposals, analysing organisational viability and contributing to funding recommendations.
- Ensure effective financial stewardship of donor funds, reviewing budgets, tracking expenditure and identifying risks or corrective actions where required.
- Monitor and evaluate portfolio performance, ensuring robust data quality, learning integration and continuous improvement.
- Represent GIF in internal governance forums, including the Field Investment and Innovation Committee, contributing to funding decisions and strategic discussions.
- Engage with donors and external stakeholders, supporting reporting, relationship management and future funding opportunities.
- Support Large Farm Fund and Knowledge Partner Fund rounds, including assessment, monitoring and stakeholder engagement.
- Strengthen grant management systems and processes, identifying and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency, compliance and transparency.
- Collaborate closely with country programme teams, MEL colleagues and finance teams to ensure coordinated delivery and alignment across functions.
- Contribute to annual reporting, portfolio analysis and strategic planning for the GIF and wider Global Programmes function.
Experience
We are looking for candidates with the following skills, knowledge and experience:
- Degree in Agronomy, International Development, Anthropology or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- Demonstrated experience managing complex grant or project portfolios within rural development or sustainability contexts.
- Experience working with commercial and institutional donors, including proposal development and reporting.
- Strong financial oversight experience, including reviewing budgets and financial performance.
- Experience using MEL frameworks, logframes and performance monitoring tools.
- Willingness to travel for project visits twice a year (trips of between 7-10 days), and up to 2 trips per year for team/organisational meetings in Europe. If the successful applicant is based in one of our programme countries ie. CDI, India or Pakistan, the number of project visits would be greater.
Desirable
- Expertise in smallholder agriculture.
- Experience supporting organisational development of partners.
- Experience communicating with donors and representing programmes externally.
- Experience working in Sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia.
- Additional language skills relevant to programme geographies.
What we offer
- Hybrid working – 2-3 days per week in our London, Delhi, or Lahore offices. Fully Remote in Côte d'Ivoire
- The opportunity to work from anywhere in the world for up to one month per year
- Flexible working, with core hours from 10 am to 4 pm local time
- Continuous learning and development
- Pension scheme
- A generous annual leave package, including paid holiday, public holidays, additional paid days off during the festive season, study and exam days, and extra discretionary leave for life events such as family weddings or moving home
- Enhanced parental benefits
- The opportunity to make your mark and make a difference.
Working arrangements
The position is full-time (40 hours per week) and will be based either in London, Delhi, Lahore or Côte d'Ivoire. Better Cotton Initiative offers flexible working, with core hours being 10 am – 4 pm. The position will require limited travel.
Send us your CV (2 pages maximum) and a brief cover letter (1-page maximum) by or before 25/03/2026 via the application link.
In your cover letter, please include an explanation of why your experience is specifically relevant to this role at Better Cotton Initiative. We want to see your personal style – what makes you tick and why you think your next opportunity is here with us.
Better Cotton Initiative does not use artificial intelligence or automated screening tools in its hiring process. Every application is reviewed by our Talent Acquisition team and relevant hiring managers to ensure a fair and human-led assessment experience.
Our hiring process
Initial Screening:
Applicant screening is a crucial step in our recruitment process. This stage may involve a brief phone interview or video call to evaluate your suitability for the position. During this screening, we review resumes and cover letters, and may conduct initial background checks to narrow down the pool of applicant. Internal candidates are encouraged to inform their line manager about their application to promote transparency and help facilitate a smooth transition if selected.
Interviews:
If you successfully pass the initial screening, you will be invited for interviews. The interview process at Better Cotton Initiative may include one or more rounds of interviews with various stakeholders, such as the hiring manager, team members, and potentially senior management. As an internal candidate, you may have discussions regarding your current responsibilities and how they will transition to the new position.
Assessment and Testing:
Depending on the role, you might be required to complete assessments, technical tests, or skills evaluations to gauge your competency and suitability for the position. Internal candidates may have the option to demonstrate their existing skills through current job performance or past project outcomes.
Reference Checks:
Once you progress further in the process, reference checks are conducted to validate your work history, skills, and qualifications, and for some roles, your education and criminal history. Internal candidates may be asked for references from current or previous supervisors within Better Cotton Initiative to provide insights into their performance and capabilities.
Offer stage:
After completing interviews, assessments, and reference checks, the hiring team evaluates your performance and fit for the role. If you are selected and your references are relevant and satisfactory, you will receive a formal job offer letter outlining the terms of employment, compensation, benefits, and any other relevant details. For internal candidates, the offer process may include a discussion about how your transition to the new role will be managed and any support needed for a smooth handover.
About Better Cotton Initiative
Better Cotton Initiative is a global not-for-profit organisation supporting the production of more equitable and sustainable cotton at farm level. We exist to catalyse the cotton farming community with partners, governments and others to continuously drive positive impact by setting standards and facilitating the supply and demand of more sustainable cotton from farm to brand. In just 15 years we have aligned more than a fifth of the world’s cotton with our standard and helped farmers and farming communities thrive. Join us in building a better, more sustainable future for cotton worldwide.
About our Values
The post holder will be expected to operate in line with our workplace values which are:
- Trustworthy (including honest, transparent, credible)
- As having Integrity (including responsible, authentic)
- Positive (including problem-solving, pragmatic)
- Engaging (including adaptable, inclusive, holistic)
- Daring (including courageous, innovative, game-changing)
Being you @ Better Cotton Initiative
Better Cotton Initiative is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to good practice and transparency in the management of natural, human, and financial resources.
We have a zero-tolerance approach to any attitudes or behaviours that put children or adults at risk of harm. Safeguarding incidents are acts of serious misconduct and are grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including, dismissal and referral to relevant authorities for criminal prosecution. Therefore, all offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks.
Key information
Location: Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Nottingham, or London
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (full time)
Start date: ASAP (we are happy to work with notice periods)
Duration: Permanent
Salary: £36,340 - £41,065 per annum if based in London. £33,690 - £38,410 per annum if based in Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle or Nottingham, plus a £312 yearly tax-free work from home allowance.
Application deadline: Wednesday 18th March, 12pm
This application process will consist of 3 stages: Application, 1st interview and Assessment Centre (presentation task & interview).
About upReach
Do you think that your socio-economic background should determine your career prospects?
upReach’s vision is of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential. Our work is important because right now a student from disadvantaged background who gains a first-class degree from a top university is less likely to secure an elite job than a more privileged student with a 2.2.
We are an award-winning charity employer working to address this issue in partnership with employers and universities. We help undergraduates from lower socioeconomic backgrounds achieve their career potential by providing an intensive programme of support that addresses socio-economic barriers to graduate employment.
To find out more about how we support our students, visit our website and read our Annual Report, and Impact Report.
Role Summary
As a University Partnership Manager at upReach, you will play a vital role in securing and growing high-impact partnerships with universities committed to social mobility.
Reporting to the Head of Partnerships within the Income Generation and External Engagement team, you will be responsible for developing new strategic relationships, championing our partners' voices across upReach, and working closely with our Programmes Team to oversee a portfolio of university partners. You’ll lead stakeholder engagement, take ownership of partnership outcomes and work collaboratively across upReach with our marketing, impact and programme teams.
Core Responsibilities
You will play a critical role in advancing upReach’s mission by generating income and leading upReach’s University Partnerships strategy. Creating life-changing opportunities for our Associates through high-impact university partnerships. You will be directly supporting the organisation's strategic priorities: driving sustainable income growth, enhancing programme impact and expanding our reach as a national charity.
Given the expansive and dynamic nature of this role, the list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, but provides a clear overview of your primary areas of responsibility, ownership and impact.
The core responsibilities include:
Develop and Secure New Strategic University Partnerships
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Proactively identify, cultivate, and convert a pipeline of four and five-figure prospective university partners aligned with upReach’s mission and strategic goals.
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Lead high-quality prospecting and relationship-building activity, targeting income-generating partnerships that also deliver high-impact opportunities for Associates.
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Build strong relationships with key contacts at potential partners, including senior stakeholders within widening participation, employability, and careers teams, through regular in-person and virtual meetings.
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Deliver compelling, insight-driven proposals and presentations tailored to organisational priorities and demonstrating mutual value.
Stakeholder Representation and Engagement
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Act as a visible representative of upReach at key partner events, conferences, and roundtables, building relationships, showcasing our impact, and raising our external profile.
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Leverage social media strategically to spotlight partnership activity, amplify success stories and demonstrate the value of our partnerships in real time.
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Respond swiftly and professionally to partner and prospective partner requests, ensuring timely, accurate information and follow-up.
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Capture, report and disseminate key themes and insights from partner feedback, helping to inform decision-making and continuously improve the partnership experience.
Monitor and Grow Existing University Partnerships
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Responsibility for a portfolio of upReach’s existing university partners, ensuring effective stewardship of the day-to-day relationship with high satisfaction, sustainable renewal and growth.
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Set and monitor partnership goals and OKRs, leading regular reviews and performance reporting.
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Identify opportunities to deepen and broaden engagement with existing partners, including expanding partnership activities.
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Collaborate with the Student Attraction and Programme teams to engage the university in identifying & promoting the programme.
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Working closely with upReach’s Programme teams to ensure partnerships and programmes are delivered to a high standard.
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Lead on university partnership health reviews and mid-year partner reviews to ensure any issues are dealt with effectively, promptly and collaboratively.
Partnership Visibility and Impact
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Collaborate closely with Marketing & Communications to co-create high-quality content and campaigns that showcase our strategic partnerships through university guides, case studies, thought leadership, social media, and joint events.
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Lead on impact reporting for your partnership portfolio, using both data and compelling stories to evidence the outcomes of the partnership and drive continued engagement.
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Proactively identify and deliver opportunities for partners to amplify the voice of upReach; through our external events, fundraising opportunities and sharing social-media collateral that promotes our work.
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Innovation
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Collaborate with the Finance team to ensure timely and accurate invoicing and contracting for all University partnerships, supporting effective financial management.
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Maintain up-to-date and accurate records of partnership activity using upReach’s internal CRM and systems, enabling effective reporting, forecasting and stewardship.
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Uphold the organisation’s legal and ethical obligations, including data protection, charity law, and compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements.
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Manage and support a rotation of the Future Charity Leaders Programme, providing guidance, feedback, and development opportunities.
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Meet monthly with University Leads (the Programme Coordinator responsible for day-to-day university activities) to set partnership priorities, monitor stakeholder KPIs (onboarding, engagement), and deliver updates to universities.
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Contribute to the achievement of income targets aligned with upReach’s strategic goals, identifying and progressing opportunities to drive revenue growth.
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Engage fully in the annual appraisal process, setting ambitious, SMART objectives that align with organisational priorities and your personal development.
Skills and Experience
The ideal candidate for the University Partnerships Manager should display these behavioural skills:
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Strong track record of relationship-building, influencing, and delivering high-quality engagement with a range of stakeholders, ideally including senior university professionals.
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Excellent organisational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines autonomously.
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Confident and pragmatic decision maker in a fast-paced environment, with an understanding of when to escalate situations and seek input appropriately.
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Proven ability to develop and implement partnership or engagement strategies that strengthen collaboration and deliver shared goals.
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Collaborative team player with experience supporting and working across diverse teams to deliver shared objectives.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including confidence in preparing and delivering presentations and reports.
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Proficient in using CRM or data management systems to track engagement, manage pipelines, and generate actionable insights.
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Experience measuring and reporting on partnership impact, engagement, or value creation.
Desirable:
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Experience in university partnerships, fundraising, account management, or stakeholder engagement.
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Understanding of widening participation, employability, or student success strategies within a higher education setting.
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Experience collaborating with marketing or communications teams to create joint campaigns, content, or case studies that drive engagement.
Team Culture & Benefits:
We offer:
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Flexible and hybrid working.
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Statutory Holiday Entitlement of 25 days and bank holidays. This increases to 2 additional days after 2.5 years and then to 3 additional days after 5 years of working with us.
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Birthday leave and Volunteering leave
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Enhanced Parental Leave beyond statutory requirements for all team members.
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3% Pension Contribution, which increased to 5% after 5 years of working with us.
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Cycle-to-work scheme.
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Monthly socials and annual wellbeing days
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Dedication to Staff Wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aid Training.
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Personal Development Budget, activated after 6 months in the role.
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The opportunity to participate in our fantastic staff networks:
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Disability and Inclusion Network
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Diverse Roots Network
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Green Network
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LGBTQ+ Network
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Mindfulness Network
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Parents and Carers Network
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(Im)Migrants Network
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Ready to apply?
We are committed to making our recruitment process inclusive. All applications will be blind screened, and our job packs are available in Braille, large text or another format upon request. We can provide reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment application process and on the job, and we'll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible.
Applications close on Wednesday 18th March at 12pm..
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
At upReach, we are committed to being an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate in employment matters on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability, social background or any other protected class. We celebrate and value the diverse perspectives that people from all backgrounds bring to our team. We are passionate about creating a workplace that is inclusive and reflects the diversity of communities across the UK. Diversity in the workplace creates dynamic and effective organisations and we are actively working to build a more inclusive workforce by continuously improving our recruitment, retention, and development practices. We encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian and other ethnic minority backgrounds, those with disabilities , those who are care-experienced, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, and those who are LGBTQIA+.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Help lead the response to rough sleeping in South West London. Join SPEAR as our Rough Sleeping Outreach and Assessment Manager and make a real difference to the lives of people experiencing homelessness.
SPEAR is a charity working to end homelessness across South West London. We believe homelessness should be rare, brief and non-recurring, and our teams work every day to support people sleeping rough to move into safe, stable accommodation.
We are looking for an experienced and motivated manager to lead our Rough Sleeping Outreach and Assessment Service across the London Boroughs of Richmond and Wandsworth. You will manage a dedicated team delivering street outreach and operating from the Assessment Centre in Clapham Junction, ensuring people experiencing rough sleeping receive timely, trauma-informed support and pathways into accommodation.
This is a hands-on leadership role where you will oversee service delivery, manage staff and rotas, build strong partnerships with local authorities and support services, and ensure high-quality safeguarding and case management.
If you are passionate about tackling homelessness and leading frontline services that make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.
Why join us
At SPEAR, you’ll be part of a friendly, skilled charity team dedicated to ending homelessness. We offer comprehensive training, opportunities to progress, and strong wellbeing support, so you can thrive while helping others do the same.
Your Benefits
- Generous holiday – 26 days plus public holidays, rising to 31 days with length of service
- Wellbeing & EAP – 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme with free counselling, money and legal advice
- Health support – Occupational health service and free annual eye test (with contribution towards glasses if required)
- Cycle to Work – Save on a new bike and accessories through salary sacrifice
- Season ticket loan – Interest-free loan for annual travel passes
- Moving house day – Extra day’s leave when you move home
- Financial security – Life assurance (4x salary) and interest-free emergency staff loan
- Family-friendly policies – Enhanced maternity and adoption pay, plus flexible working options
- Career development – Ongoing training, learning and progression opportunities
- Blue Light Card – Discounts across a wide range of shops, restaurants and services
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the Project
PKD Scotland: Outreach and Community Connections Project.
It is estimated that around 5,000 people in Scotland could be living with Polycystic Kidney
Disease. It is however often poorly understood and historically underfunded, meaning people
can leave clinic after diagnosis with little support beyond medical appointments. Many tell us
they don't know where to turn for emotional support or to meet others living with the same
condition. We want to change that and with support from a National lottery Awards for All grant
that is exactly what we are going to do.
The eighteen-month project will see us reach into hospitals across Scotland to try and ensure
that no one with PKD in Scotland has to manage their journey on their own. From diagnosis
onwards we want all to be aware of the charity, the array of services that we offer and foster
engagement. Two new volunteer led support groups will be established and a group of
ambassadors recruited to support the ongoing connections we make to ensure that PKD
remains in the spotlight.
As our Scotland PKD Engagement Officer you will be central to the success of the project.
Many people only reach us years after diagnosis, often when symptoms worsen, but we know
that early connection can make a real difference. PKD is lifelong and people face new
challenges at every stage. Having support around them helps them stay confident, informed
and connected.
About The Role
As PKD’s Scotland Engagement Officer, you will play a central role in delivering this ambitious
outreach project.
Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will raise awareness of the PKD Charity and its services,
ensuring that people diagnosed with PKD are informed about available support from the earliest
possible stage.
You will build and nurture relationships with NHS professionals and services across Scotland,
helping embed PKD Charity information and resources into patient pathways. Alongside this, you
will work closely with volunteers to establish two new PKD support groups and develop an
ambassador programme to maintain long-term local engagement and visibility.
This is an exciting opportunity for a confident relationship-builder who enjoys working
autonomously while contributing to a small and dedicated team. Your work will help ensure that
people living with PKD across Scotland feel informed, connected and supported throughout every
stage of their condition.
For more information and details on how to apply, please read the full Job Description.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chief Executive Officer - ECT Charity
Location: London (Greenford / Ealing) with regular travel to Dorset and partner sites; minimum three days per week in office
Salary: circa £80,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Are you ready to consolidate financial stability, rebuild income and lead the next phase of sustainable growth at the sector leading community transport organisation that delivers tangible impact across London and Dorset?
About ECT Charity
ECT Charity is a leading specialist community transport organisation enabling mobility and social inclusion across London and Dorset. We deliver essential door-to-door transport and influence sector policy with partners such as TfL and the GLA, including through the use of our pioneering CT Social Value Toolkit. Facing reduced statutory income, operations changes, lease negotiations and contract retendering, we need to stabilise cashflow and protect services. Significant opportunities include leveraging our network and resources to develop our training and consultancy, build strategic partnerships to generate earned income, and using Dorset as a demonstrator site to pilot sustainable, mission-aligned commercial models.
Role priorities (first 12–18 months)
• Deliver a sustainable financial model and restore reserves.
• Redesign operations for the new scale.
• Leverage our networks and resources to develop commercial opportunities (partnerships, training, consultancy).
• Rebuild business development capability and secure partnership income.
Who you are
• Senior leader with experience of multi-site operations or similar scale.
• Strong partnership, commercialisation and Board reporting skills.
• Proven track record of strong financial management, contract negotiation and estate management.
• Commitment to inclusive leadership; willing to be office-based (min three days/week) and travel; driving licence preferred.
• Desirable: Experience in community transport, social enterprise or productisation/licensing.
Why ECT?
• Lead a sector-recognised charity with a strong social value toolkit and immediate partnership routes.
• Combine financial rigour with mission-aligned commercial innovation.
• Shape ECT’s stabilisation and long-term sustainability.
For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence. We advise reading the full brief first.
Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 23rd March 2026.
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Youth Focus West Midlands (YFWM) is looking for a Regional Development Lead to work as part of the Network of Regional Youth Work Units to build an inclusive and equitable approach to youth voice and youth engagement, ensuring the most marginalised and under-represented young people have their voices heard and acted upon across the UK.
The Development Lead will manage the Amplify funded programme of work across the region. This will include the facilitation of learning networks, peer support groups and peer research approaches, overseeing of project communications and delivering training and support programmes. Along with the collation of best practice around youth voice and contributing to evaluation and impact reporting requirements.
This is a part-time (17.5 hours per week) role on a Fixed Term Contract of 4 years, offering £29,000–£30,000 per annum pro-rata depending on experience (£14,500 – £15,000 before deductions). The role is remote (equipment provided) but with frequent travel required across the West Midlands. Occasional evening and weekend working will also be required.
To find out more please read the role description and person specification provided. To apply, please complete our official application form (CVs and cover letters will not be considered). The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 18th March. Interviews are expected to take place on 22nd April.
This is an exciting time for the Trust as we are in the second year of our ambitious NLHF funded activity plan. You will be providing support for the volunteer journey from recruitment and onboarding, to role support across all areas of volunteer activity in the park.
This role will be key to supporting the ongoing development of our volunteering programme and ensuring that the correct processes are followed, volunteers and schools/learning groups have the information they need, resourcing is at appropriate levels and rooms, and equipment is booked as needed.
You will work as part of the Content, Learning and Engagement team, line managed by the Senior Volunteering Manager.
The role is offered on a one-year fixed term contract with Crystal Palace Park Trust. Any extension is subject to funding.
This role is funded by the Lottery Fund as part of the partnership project between Crystal Palace Park Trust and the London Borough of Bromley.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Finance and Business Operations Director will lead VAST’s financial and operational strategy, ensuring robust financial management, effective HR and IT systems, compliance with Health and Safety, and the efficient running of The Dudson Centre.
The postholder will act as Company Secretary, overseeing governance and compliance, and also serve as the organisation’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the role contributes to strategic planning and organisational development, as well as supporting VAST’s day-to-day delivery.
What we're looking for
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, etc.)
- Significant experience in financial management and business operations in the VCSE sector.
- Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
- Knowledge of charity finance, governance, and compliance.
- Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to travel locally and work occasional evenings/weekends.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.



