CEO

JOB PURPOSE:

CVS Brent is looking to recruit its next Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation and manage the implementation of programmes that enhance the capacity of voluntary and community organisations in the borough of Brent.

The incoming CEO will play a crucial role in leading CVS Brent through a pivotal transition period with a focus on stabilising the organisation and laying the groundwork for meaningful organisational change. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of community engagement and impact in Brent.

CVS Brent is a dynamic and independent charity dedicated to supporting the diverse and vibrant voluntary sector in Brent. Through a range of services, including expert advice, professional training, and effective advocacy, we enable individuals and organisations in Brent to build the capacity necessary to meet the needs and aspirations of their communities through voluntary action. Located in an inner-city borough with a rich tradition of voluntary activity, we actively promote innovative approaches to working and foster relationships and partnerships between communities, local government, and health services.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership and Execution: In collaboration with the Board, the CEO will define CVS Brent's strategic direction, goals, monitor progress, and set targets..
• Provide Visionary Leadership: Lead and support staff to enhance their contributions and ensure effective programme development and delivery.
• Manage Foundation Building and Change: Establish a strong foundation for future service growth. Navigate the organisation through transitions, ensuring stability and resilience.
• Engage with Stakeholders: Align CVS Brent's objectives with those of its stakeholders by collaborating with voluntary and community organisations, local authorities, and other partners to foster meaningful relationships.
• Embrace Innovation: Encourage creative thinking and explore new approaches to address challenges.
• Represent CVS Brent publicly: Represent CVS Brent and nurture effective relationships across local, regional, and national networks. Actively seek opportunities to expand and promote CVS Brent's role and impact.
• Build Capacity: Enhance the capacity of local organisations by designing and delivering effective programs.
• Lead Policy and Advocacy Efforts: Including engagement with Brent Council, NHS regulators, and other decision-makers.
• Build Strong Connections: Cultivate and maintain strong networks with key supporters, stakeholders, and partnership agencies to strengthen CVS Brent’s impact.
• Generate Income: Cultivate and strengthen relationships with partners, supporters, funders, and potential funders to capitalise on income generation opportunities.
• Manage Finances: Acquire the necessary resources for efficient operation (from both current and new funding avenues). Additionally oversee budgeting and risk management.
• Report to the Board of Trustees: Attend Board meetings and keep the Board informed about CVS Brent's progress, relevant matters, and the charity's mission. Provide timely and relevant information to aid the Board in fulfilling its duties. Alert the Board to any significant risks facing the charity.
• Ensure Robust Oversight: Uphold and implement CVS Brent's policies, procedures, and systems. Strive for operational excellence by adhering to established guidelines and continuously improving processes.
• Stay Informed and Proactive: Continuously monitor and stay updated on current social, economic, political, environmental, and other relevant trends. Use this knowledge to identify strategic development opportunities for CVS Brent and proactively adapt to changing circumstances.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

While no specific qualification is required, evidence of recent continuing professional development in areas such as management, leadership, or organisational culture is desired. Alternatively, equivalent work experience in a related field will be considered.

• Partnership Building: Demonstrated ability to build strong partnerships, particularly with large and complex statutory organisations. Proven success in forming positive relationships with funders, partners, and stakeholders.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Practical understanding of the regulatory environment within which Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations operate. Strong grasp of good governance principles.
• Innovation and Change Leadership: Experience in leading and facilitating innovation and change across an organisation. Adept at driving positive transformation.
• Organisational Development: Familiarity with organisational and staff development principles. Knowledge of financial and risk factors relevant to business development in a VCSE context.
• Effective Leadership: Ability to provide effective leadership, fostering an organisational culture characterised by professionalism, respect, integrity, confidence, and trust.
• Collaborative Management Style: Proven ability to empower others through a collaborative management approach.
• Results-Oriented: Strong focus on outcomes, with a track record of delivering tangible results.
• Strong Communication: Excellent ability to represent CVS Brent and engage effectively, both verbally and in writing, across all organisational levels.
• Knowledgeable about Funding Sources: Understanding of various funding sources available to VCSEs, including trading.
• IT Proficiency: An awareness and passion for leveraging technology strategically to enhance organisational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Organisational Planning: Effectively coordinating tasks, resources, and timelines to achieve desired outcomes.
• Commitment to Inclusion: Demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion for all.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Mission-Driven Commitment: Demonstrates a high level of motivation and unwavering commitment to the mission of CVS Brent.
• Enjoys Networking: Possesses strong connections within the VCSE sector and other related fields or can quickly establish connections and build networks.
• Understands the VCSE Sector: Can effectively represent and promote CVS Brent and the VCSE sector to external partners and industries.
• Possesses Interpersonal Skills: Including active listening skills and approachability.
• Thrives in a Collaborative Team-Oriented Environment: Collaborates effectively with other all team members.
• Brings leadership experience: Particularly in managing change and driving positive transformation.
• Displays an Entrepreneurial Mindset: Provides thought leadership, fosters innovation, demonstrates openness to new ideas, and is receptive to being challenged by others to explore alternative perspectives.
• Demonstrates Effective Organisation and Workload Management: Adept at managing complex workloads efficiently often with digital tools.
• Committed to staff well-being: Supports flexible working arrangements, and actively contributes to the growth and development of a diverse team.
• Demonstrates visible sector presence. Possesses strong public speaking skills and plays a prominent role in the sector.