Executive director of business development and innovation jobs in cape town, western cape

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Role Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities

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

Success in this role

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

Key outcomes for the role

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

About you

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

Role Summary

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

Development Manager

Are you a passionate and skilled land and property professional with a heart for serving older Christians? We are seeking a Development Manager to play a key role in expanding and strengthening our mission to provide compassionate, faith-based care. This is a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of our residents while working alongside a dedicated and motivated team.

We are looking for a Development Manager who will be instrumental in driving our vision forward, identifying new land and acquisition opportunities, and ensuring the highest standards of development and innovation.

As a Development Manager, you will be responsible for leading on strategic development projects, forging key partnerships, and ensuring our growth and renewal programme moves forward in alignment with our mission.

If you are a dynamic and experienced land and property professional with a strong background in acquisitions, planning, project management, and a heart for Christian service, we invite you to apply now.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage strategic development projects from inception to completion.
• Identify and develop new opportunities for growth and expansion.
• Work collaboratively with key stakeholders .
• Manage budgets effectively and ensure financial sustainability of development initiatives.
• Prepare reports and provide updates to senior management and trustees.

Skills/Experience:

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills.
• Proven experience in land acquisition, development project management, or a similar role.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing development budgets.
• A proactive and innovative approach .
• IT proficient, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Applicants must be evangelical Christians (This role has an Occupational Requirement to be filled by a Christian under the provisions of the Equality Act (2010).)

Hours:

Full-time, 40 hours per week.

Benefits:

• Salary: £54,000 per annum
• Remote working
• 5 Weeks' paid holiday per year as well as bank and public holidays
• On-going training and support
• Team events
• Pension scheme
• Care Friends referral 
• Medicash
• Perkbox – including an Employee assistance programme.
• Long-standing service rewards
• Birthday rewards

— What our staff say about us: “It is a friendly and welcoming place to work.” —

We are committed to having a diverse leadership team and encourage applications from disabled and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidates, as these groups are currently underrepresented at the senior management level.

Closing date: 23rd May 2025 – However, this vacancy may close sooner if sufficient applications are received, so please apply as soon as possible if interested.

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

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

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

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

What is a Head of Digital, Data and Technology? 

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

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

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

What can we offer you?

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

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

What you’ll be doing:

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

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

What we’re looking for:

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

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

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

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

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

What is the Head of Product?

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

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

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

What can we offer you?

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

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

What you’ll be doing:

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

Responsibilities include:

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

What we’re looking for:

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

Location: Home-based in the UK, with regular national and international travel

Contract: 2 years with the possibility of extension dependent on continuation of funding.

Reporting to: Chief Operating Officer

Salary: £65,000 to £70,000.

Additional benefits: 25 days annual leave plus public holidays (annual leave increasing by 1 extra day for every year’s service up to 30 days total), life assurance and access to an employee assistance programme.

WeProtect Global Alliance will not be responding to expressions of interest or applications sent by third parties (agencies, brokers or recruitment specialists).

We require a highly skilled and motivated individual who has strong ethical standards and demonstrable commitment to the values of WeProtect Global Alliance to help plan, coordinate, implement and track our existing and new global strategy to ensure that our members collectively work together to create a world where children and young people can access and participate in the digital world free from harm, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation.

The successful candidate will demonstrate considerable professional experience in a comparable role and a genuine passion for child protection. They will have a strong track record in developing, harnessing and deploying policy and research outputs to support and collaborate with the WeProtect Global Alliance community to develop real world solutions to make the digital world safer for children and young people across the globe.

Politically, commercially and financially astute, you will have a broad range of skills. You will be able to build relationships and work effectively with a broad range of global partners (who often hold competing views and opinions). You will confidently and comfortably support often ambiguous and sensitive negotiations with diverse stakeholders as we develop and implement the organisation’s new global strategy.

You will be able to focus on both the detail and the bigger picture in a complex policy and legislative landscape and be an inspirational and supportive team player who will live our values, shine confidently as a key member of the senior management team, be a role model to our brilliant research manager and policy manager and ambassador when engaging with members and external partners.

If working on strategy, research and policy, combined with our mission of making the digital world free of harm for children and young people, motivate you to come to work and give your best every day, then this is the place for you and we cannot wait to welcome you!

About WeProtect Global Alliance 

The online world was not created with children in mind and can be unsafe for children and young people to explore. Every phone and computer is a potential gateway for offenders seeking to sexually exploit children. Our Alliance generates political commitment and practical approaches to make the digital world safe and positive for children, preventing sexual abuse and long-term harm.

Our Alliance’s geographical reach is unprecedented: 103 governments are members along with 82 private sector companies, 126 civil society organisations and 10 intergovernmental organisations. This diverse membership is key to our ability to deliver real change. Together, we break down complex problems and develop policies and solutions to protect children from sexual abuse online. More information on who we are and what we do can be found on the WeProtect Global Alliance website.

WeProtect Global Alliance is supported by a high-performing secretariat of eleven staff based in the UK and Belgium and is overseen by an influential Global Policy Board that the Head of Strategy will work collaboratively with to ensure the Alliance members remain impact and child centred.

Job description

Overall purpose of role

As the WeProtect Global Alliance Head of Strategy, you will lead a small team to build a global network, evidence base and policy portfolio to guide and drive the implementation of our Strategy and mission targets. Your team will provide high level analysis and ask critical questions, supporting the Alliance to identify immediate and emerging issues which may require investigation or exploration, support the Policy Board, Executive Team, Head of Members and Head of Development to navigate key strategic decisions.

You will also work closely with the Head of Members and Head of Development to support the development of new ways of working to harness Alliance members and broader community of practice to understand our collective impact and ensure our secretariat, members and broader organization actively remain relevant and focused on delivering our mission and strategic objectives. 

You will lead the WeProtect Global Alliance Research and Policy work, with key accountability for the following outcomes:

· Work with the Executive Team and Policy Board to implement the existing WeProtect Global Alliance strategy and ensure the forthcoming strategy remains targeted and focused on achieving the Alliance’s global ambition.

· Work with the Executive Team and Policy Board to develop and implement the WeProtect Global Alliance approach, strategy and operational targets on participation and engagement.

· Collaborate with the Head of Members, the Head of Development and MEL lead to collectively build, maintain and oversee our theory of change and operational model to ensure our Strategy remains impactful and has real world impact on the lives of children and young people.

· Provide inspirational leadership and empower our Policy Manager and Research Manager to pro-actively deliver a portfolio of work that will raise the profile of our mission and shift the needle on governmental, public and private sector agencies approaches to child protection and safety in the digital world. This includes overseeing the production of the WeProtect Global Alliance biennial Global Threat Assessment, Model National Response and Global Strategic Response.

· Build and maintain meaningful engagement with a broad range of external stakeholders across the public, private and third sector (including government agencies, advocacy communities, specialist tech and civil society organisations) across the globe to deliver the WeProtect Global Alliance strategic mission.

· Play an active role in building the operational resilience, financial sustainability and compliance capability and capacity of the Secretariat to provide a world class service to our members and Board to ensure WeProtect Global Alliance remains focused on creating a world where children and young people can access and participate in the digital world free from harm, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation.

Key Responsibilities

1. To lead the Strategy team, ensuring the research and policy portfolios are informed by best practice to achieve our mission, vision and embody our values.  This includes working across the Secretariat to deliver the existing strategy and collaborate with Executive Team to develop and implement our new strategy.

2. To be a thought leader, keep abreast of external trends and developments and changing circumstances to ensure the WeProtect Global Alliance Strategy remains relevant, targeted and focused on improving outcomes for children and young people in a rapidly changing legislative, operational and technology landscape.

3. To be accountable for strategy, research, policy and cross organisational projects and work streams.  This includes planning and organising relevant performance and delivery areas, being mindful of cross-cutting impacts and priorities.

4. To be accountable for the commissioning, delivery and impact of strategic projects, ensuring they are led and informed by participatory and advocacy principles to reflect the diversity of our membership, embed lived experience, and deliver the WeProtect Global Alliance mission.

5. To ensure the continuous development and effective delivery of the WeProtect Global Alliance Strategy in a fast paced, politically sensitive and rapidly changing external environment, including participating in and leading (where relevant) annual business planning, forecasting, setting, monitoring, reviewing and reporting on budgets and relevant donor requirements to support effective decision making throughout the year.

6. To provide exemplary leadership and line management to staff, including appraisals, supervision, team meetings, delegating, managing, engaging, developing and supporting staff to be the best they can be and achieve our strategic objectives in accordance with our vision and values.

7. Lead and develop effective working relationships with external partners, stakeholders, members and staff to maximise the collective impact of WeProtect Global Alliance (governmental, public, private, civil society and advocacy communities).

8. To take accountability for preparing papers, reports and presentations for internal and external meetings including senior management meetings, executive team, trustee, board and reference groups meetings. To attend, chair, and contribute to meetings, briefings, reviews, due diligence and auditing and compliance activities.

9. Represent the Executive Director and the Chief Operating Officer at internal and external events, share peer responsibility for problem solving challenges, creating a ‘one team’ approach to delivery and deputising were appropriate.

10. To be an ambassador, spokesperson and representative of WeProtect Global Alliance Secretariat at external events.

Expectations

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT) you will also have a pivotal role to play in supporting and improving the organisations effectiveness as we develop the WeProtect Global Alliance new strategy, operating model and ways of working to ensure we remain effective, responsive and relevant in an increasingly polarized political landscape as we enter the fourth industrial revolution.

As a global, multi-sector alliance, ensuring equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is embedded in everything we do is a critical priority. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to be impactful and effective.  We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equality in physical and mental health for all.

1. To attend and contribute to meetings, training and other events as required.

2. To actively participate in our supervision and appraisal process.

3. To ensure that all responsibilities and activities within this post are delivered in accordance with WeProtect Global Alliance core values and relevant corporate, organisational, financial and compliance policies.

4. To travel to meetings and fora which may require the need to work unsociable hours e.g. attending evening or weekend meetings.

5. To adhere to relevant legal and statutory requirements including Data Protection Act and the Health and Safety at Work Act.

6. To use WeProtect Global Alliance resources responsibly.

Person Specification

Essential criteria

Experience

1. Significant senior experience and demonstrable record leading a Strategy Team to deliver an ambitious child centred mission on the global stage.

2. Outstanding leadership and team management experience, including experience coaching and line managing direct reports.

3. Demonstrable effective influencing and negotiation skills and political judgment with a proven track record building productive and impactful professional relationship and partnerships with a wide range of individuals and organisations.

4. Demonstrable experience leading change and transformation with demonstrable qualities as a change agent. 

5. Demonstrable senior management level experience in project management, financial, donor and budget management, monitoring, evaluation and lesson learning across the fields of strategy, research and policy.

6. Significant experience commissioning high quality, high value research and policy projects and able to demonstrate the use of insights in long term planning and impact frameworks.

Skills

1. Outstanding communication skills and ability to effectively engage and build meaningful relationships with internal and external staff and stakeholders at all levels.

2. Outstanding self-management skills to work independently, autonomously and as part of a team, using own initiative and being flexible and adaptable to deliver as ‘one team’.

3. Excellent IT, project management, financial management and donor engagement skills.

4. Demonstrable excellent planning and organisation skills to deliver work to agreed timescales and standards.

Knowledge

1. Knowledge and understanding of WeProtect Global Alliance mission, vision, values and ambition and how it applies to this post.

2. Knowledge and understanding of a child centred approach to participation, advocacy and EDI and how it applies to this post, with a focus on embedding effective policies and processes.

3. Awareness of global child protection policies and procedures within the digital arena and a genuine passion for child protection.

Other

1. A willingness to travel and work unsocial hours (time in lieu can be claimed)

2. Commitment to your own continuing professional and personal development

3. To uphold high standards of work, standards and conduct in line with WeProtect Global Alliance values.

Diversity, inclusion and equity

We welcome applicants from all sections of the community, regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. We particularly welcome applicants from ethnic minorities and other under-represented groups. 

Safeguarding and values

As a child-focused organisation, we have a strong commitment to child safeguarding and rigorous procedures. The successful candidate will be required to provide two referees and to undergo a criminal record check. 

All staff are expected to act at all times in a manner consistent with our values and in compliance with our policies and procedures, including our Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.

Our values are: 

· Empowerment – collaboration, innovation, challenge

· Accountability – responsibility, delivery, safeguarding

· Respect – honesty, feedback, inclusion

Location: Home-based in the UK, with regular national and international travel

Contract: 2 years with the possibility of extension dependent on funding.

Reporting to: Chief Operating Officer

Salary: £65,000 to £70,000.

Additional benefits: 25 days annual leave plus public holidays (annual leave increasing by 1 extra day for every years’ service up to 30 days total), life assurance and access to an employee assistance programme.

WeProtect Global Alliance will not be responding to expressions of interest or applications sent by third parties (agencies, brokers or recruitment specialists).

We require a highly skilled and motivated individual who has strong ethical standards and demonstrable commitment to our values to help grow, oversee, retain and actively engage the WeProtect Global Alliance to collaborate, advocate and  members and collectively work together to deliver our vision of a world where children and young people can access and participate in the digital world free from harm, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation.

The successful candidate will demonstrate considerable professional experience in a comparable role and a genuine passion for child protection. They will have a strong track record in developing, harnessing and deploying a diverse community of practice to develop real world solutions to make the digital world safer for children and young people across the globe.

Politically, commercially and financially astute, you will have a broad range of skills. You will be able to grow, activate and develop deep connections to nurture, harness and activate our alliance members to deliver our global mission and strategic objectives in a period where we are developing our new Strategy.

You will relish the opportunity to lead and support our member alliance, which currently comprises a broad range of high profile and influential representatives drawn from government, multi and bilateral agencies, global tech communities, NGO and advocacy groups, to focus on delivering real world solutions to often sensitive issues where competing views, political opinions and priorities can make seeking a resolution a challenge.

You will be comfortable supporting our Members Team and Alliance member community to ensure we remain relevant, responsive and impactful in an increasingly polarised political landscape as we enter the fourth industrial revolution. 

You will be able to focus on both the detail and the bigger picture in a complex landscape and be an inspirational and supportive team player who will live our values, shine confidently as a key member of the senior management team, be a role model to our brilliant secretariat workforce and an ambassador when engaging with members and external partners.

If leading, growing and getting the best out of a global community, combined with our mission of making the digital world free of harm for children and young people, motivate you to come to work and give your best every day, then this is the place for you and we cannot wait to welcome you!

About WeProtect Global Alliance 

The online world was not created with children in mind and can be unsafe for children and young people to explore. Every phone and computer is a potential gateway for offenders seeking to sexually exploit children. Our Alliance generates political commitment and practical approaches to make the digital world safe and positive for children, preventing sexual abuse and long-term harm.

Our Alliance’s geographical reach is unprecedented: 103 governments are members along with 82 private sector companies, 126 civil society organisations and 10 intergovernmental organisations. This diverse membership is key to our ability to deliver real change. Together, we break down complex problems and develop policies and solutions to protect children from sexual abuse online. More information on who we are and what we do can be found on the WeProtect Global Alliance website.

WeProtect Global Alliance is supported by a high-performing secretariat of eleven staff based in the UK and Belgium and is overseen by an influential Global Policy Board that the Head of Strategy will work collaboratively with to ensure the Alliance members remain impact and child centred.

Job description

Overall purpose of role

As the WeProtect Global Alliance Head of Members, you will grow and lead our capability and capacity to harness and grow our global alliance network to guide and drive the implementation of our Strategy and mission targets. This role requires an organised, driven, and people-oriented leader with deep and global connections in the child protection field. 

Your team will develop and deliver an elevated approach to managing a diverse community of members, supporting the Alliance maximise our impact on the global stage, support and advise the Management Board, Executive Team, Head of Strategy and Head of Development on the best ways to harness our Alliance community to respond to a rapidly evolving operational landscape and navigate key strategic decisions.

You will also work closely with the Head of Strategy and Head of Development to support the development of new ways of working to understand our collective impact and ensure our secretariat, members and broader organization actively remain relevant and focused on delivering our mission and strategic objectives. 

You will grow the capabilities and lead the WeProtect Global Alliance members work, with key accountability for the following outcomes:

· Work with the Executive Team, Management Board and Policy Board to develop, secure buy-in and implement a members strategy, operational and action plans to harness our diverse community to deliver the existing and forthcoming WeProtect Global Alliance Strategy and delivery targets.

· Collaborate with the Head of Strategy, the Head of Development and MEL lead to collectively build, maintain and oversee our theory of change and broader operational model to ensure we effectively harness and activate our member community to have real world impact on the lives of children and young people.

· Build the capability and capacity of the organisation to remain truly member led, build and manage the Members Team to pro-actively deliver a portfolio of work that will raise the profile of our mission and shift the needle on governmental, public and private sector agencies approaches to child protection and safety in the digital world. This includes overseeing and leading the Alliance’s Reference Groups and working collaboratively with the Executive Team and Head of Strategy to co-lead our work in international fora (most notably the WeProtect Global Summit).

· Build and maintain meaningful engagement with a broad range of members from across the public, private and third sector (including government agencies, advocacy communities, specialist tech and civil society organisations) across the globe to deliver the WeProtect Global Alliance strategic mission.

· Play an active role in building the operational resilience, financial sustainability and compliance capability and capacity of the Secretariat to provide a world class service to our members and Board to ensure WeProtect Global Alliance remains focused on creating a world where children and young people can access and participate in the digital world free from harm, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation.

Key Responsibilities

1. To lead the Members team to strengthen the WeProtect Global Alliance member’s portfolios by developing, securing buy-in and implementing the organisations member strategy, operating, governance model, plans, success indicators and internal capabilities to harness the power of our members to achieve our mission and vision in line with our core values.

2. To be a thought leader, keep abreast of external trends and developments and changing circumstances to ensure the WeProtect Global Alliance Member Strategy remains relevant, targeted and focused on improving outcomes for children and young people in a rapidly changing legislative, operational and technology landscape.

3. To be accountable for member services, outreach, growth, governance and cross organisational projects and work streams.  This includes planning and organising relevant performance and delivery areas, being mindful of cross-cutting impacts and priorities.

4. To ensure the continuous development and effective delivery of the WeProtect Global Alliance Member’s Strategy in a fast paced, politically sensitive and rapidly changing external environment, including participating in and leading (where relevant) annual business planning, forecasting, setting, monitoring, reviewing and reporting on budgets and relevant donor requirements to support effective decision making throughout the year.

5. To provide exemplary leadership and line management to staff, including appraisals, supervision, team meetings, delegating, managing, engaging, developing and supporting staff to be the best they can be and achieve our strategic objectives in accordance with our vision and values.

6. Lead and develop effective working relationships with external partners, stakeholders, members and staff to maximise the collective impact of WeProtect Global Alliance (governmental, public, private, civil society and advocacy communities).

7. To take accountability for preparing papers, reports and presentations for internal and external meetings including senior management meetings, executive team, trustee, board and reference groups meetings. To attend, chair, and contribute to meetings, briefings, reviews, due diligence and auditing and compliance activities.

8. Represent the Executive Director and the Chief Operating Officer at internal and external events, share peer responsibility for problem solving challenges, creating a ‘one team’ approach to delivery and deputising were appropriate.

9. To be an ambassador, spokesperson and representative of WeProtect Global Alliance Secretariat at external events.

Expectations

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT) you will also have a pivotal role to play in supporting and improving the organisation’s effectiveness as we develop the WeProtect Global Alliance’s new strategy, operating model and ways of working to ensure we remain effective, responsive and relevant in an increasingly complex and fast-moving technological landscape.

As a global, multi-sector alliance, ensuring equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is embedded in everything we do is a critical priority. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to be impactful and effective.  We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equality in physical and mental health for all.

1. To attend and contribute to meetings, training and other events as required.

2. To actively participate in our supervision and appraisal process.

3. To ensure that all responsibilities and activities within this post are delivered in accordance with WeProtect Global Alliance core values and relevant corporate, organisational, financial and compliance policies.

4. To travel to meetings and fora which may require the need to work unsociable hours e.g. attending evening or weekend meetings.

5. To adhere to relevant legal and statutory requirements including Data Protection Act and the Health and Safety at Work Act.

To use WeProtect Global Alliance resources responsibly.

Person Specification

Essential criteria

Experience

1. Significant senior experience and demonstrable record leading and growing a diverse global membership and/or partnership alliance function and/or service to deliver an ambitious child centred mission on the global stage.

2. Outstanding leadership and team management experience, including experience coaching and line managing direct reports.

3. Demonstrable effective influencing and negotiation skills and political judgment with a proven track record building productive and impactful professional relationship and partnerships with a wide range of individuals and organisations.

4. Demonstrable experience leading change and transformation with demonstrable qualities as a change agent. 

5. Demonstrable senior management level experience in project management, financial, donor and budget management, monitoring, evaluation and lesson learning across the fields of strategy, research and policy.

6. Significant experience commissioning high quality, high value research and policy projects and able to demonstrate the use of insights in long term planning and impact frameworks.

Skills

1. Outstanding communication skills and ability to effectively engage and build meaningful relationships with internal and external staff and stakeholders at all levels.

2. Outstanding self-management skills to work independently, autonomously and as part of a team, using own initiative and being flexible and adaptable to deliver as ‘one team’.

3. Excellent IT, project management, financial management and donor engagement skills.

4. Demonstrable excellent planning and organisation skills to deliver work to agreed timescales and standards.

Knowledge

1. Knowledge and understanding of WeProtect Global Alliance mission, vision, values and ambition and how it applies to this post.

2. Knowledge and understanding of a child centred approach to participation, advocacy and EDI and how it applies to this post, with a focus on embedding effective policies and processes.

3. Awareness of global child protection policies and procedures within the digital arena and a genuine passion for child protection.

Other

1. A willingness to travel and work unsocial hours (time in lieu can be claimed)

2. Commitment to your own continuing professional and personal development

3. To uphold high standards of work, standards and conduct in line with WeProtect Global Alliance values.

Diversity, inclusion and equity

We welcome applicants from all sections of the community, regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. We particularly welcome applicants from ethnic minorities and other under-represented groups. 

Safeguarding and values

As a child-focused organisation, we have a strong commitment to child safeguarding and rigorous procedures. The successful candidate will be required to provide two referees and to undergo a criminal record check. 

All staff are expected to act at all times in a manner consistent with our values and in compliance with our policies and procedures, including our Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.

Our values are: 

· Empowerment – collaboration, innovation, challenge

· Accountability – responsibility, delivery, safeguarding

· Respect – honesty, feedback, inclusion