Head of Strategic Partnerships & Programmes

Introduction

In 2024, WNST rebranded as the Wembley Stadium Foundation, marking a new chapter in our journey. This evolution reflects our ambition to broaden our reach and deepen our impact in Brent and across the country.Through a unique partnership with The FA and Wembley Stadium, the Foundation receives annual funding to support various initiatives spanning sport, physical activity, the arts, and cultural programmes. Rooted in Wembley Stadium's iconic legacy, these efforts empower charities and community organisations to deliver impactful programmes that drive meaningful change. As we expand our focus and ambition, the Head of Strategic Partnerships and Programmes will play a pivotal role in supporting our new CEO in shaping how we harness these resources. This includes fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and amplifying the power of movement, creativity, and connection to make an even greater difference to the communities we serve.

Message from our CEO

We are embarking on an exciting journey to unlock the full potential of the Foundation! With a refreshed identity that reflects our ambition, we are focused on amplifying the power of Wembley’s legacy and using it as a platform for positive change.By investing in initiatives across Brent and nationally—spanning sport, movement, the arts, and cultural activities—we aim to transform lives, strengthen communities, and promote well-being.Collaboration lies at the heart of our work, and by building strong partnerships, we can expand our reach and deliver meaningful, lasting impact.We welcome applications from anyone who shares our vision and energy and wants to be part of a dynamic team

• Paul Findlay MBE

Skills & Experience

The Head of Strategic Programmes and Partnerships will bring expertise in grant-making, stakeholder engagement, and impact evaluation, balancing operational needs with strategic priorities. As we enter an exciting phase of delivery and growth, the Foundation requires a strategic leader to work closely alongside the CEO, designing and delivering our new grants programmes while evaluating and communicating their impact. This role will also manage several high-profile, high-value relationships that are crucial to the success of the Foundation. Strong interpersonal skills, a collaborative approach, and a commitment to WSF’s mission of empowering communities through sport, movement, and culture are essential for success in this role.

Essential:

Grant & Programme Management: Experience in managing grant-making processes and overseeing the co-production of programmes with partners to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.

Stakeholder Engagement: Proven ability to build and sustain relationships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, national organisations, and grant recipients, fostering collaboration and shared impact.

Impact & Evaluation: Experience in designing and implementing robust impact measurement frameworks to evaluate funded programmes and producing comprehensive reports to demonstrate outcomes and accountability. 

Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to represent theFoundation in high-profile settings and build confidence with stakeholders.

Desirable:

-Operational Management: Strong operational oversight skills, ensuring the efficient and effective administration of grants and day-to-day organisational processes.

-Charity Sector: In-depth understanding of the charitable sector, with experience fostering partnerships that drive inclusivity and support a range of initiatives across sport, movement, and culture.

-Strategy: Ability to align grant-making practices and stakeholder engagement with long-term strategic goals, ensuring delivery of theFoundation’s mission and priorities.

-Leadership: Experience in a senior management role, with the ability to lead and influence teams and deputise for the CEO when required.

Personal Competencies

-All candidates are expected to have a strong understanding of the charitable sector and a genuine commitment to the transformative power of grant making and partnerships in empowering communities, fostering inclusivity, and creating lasting impact. 

• Ability to think strategically and align decisions with organisational goals.

• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate data, evidence, and feedback effectively.

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to engage clearly and sensitively with a variety of audiences.

• Confidence to express opinions in a reasoned and constructive manner, while actively listening to the views of others.

• Ability to provide constructive challenge and positive reinforcement when appropriate.

• Willingness to collaborate as part of a team, contributing to collective strategic decisions and accepting shared responsibility.

• Capacity to manage challenging situations with professionalism and resilience.

• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality on sensitive or confidential matters.

• Personal credibility and the ability to represent the Foundation with authority and authenticity in diverse settings.

Salary, Location & Benefits

Role Title: Head of Strategic Partnerships & Programmes 

Salary: £48,000 - per annum (plus benefits) 

Location: Hybrid working arrangement, with a requirement to be at Wembley 

Stadium a minimum of 2 days per week. 

Travel: Occasional travel within London and across the UK as required. 

Benefits: 

• Flexible hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Opportunity to work within an iconic and inspiring location at Wembley Stadium.

• Generous annual leave entitlement, including public holidays.

• Electric Car Scheme (salary sacrifice)

• Access to professional development and training opportunities.

• A supportive and inclusive working environment committed to your well-being.

Closing date for applications: 5pm Monday January 20th 2025 - Late applications will not be accepted

APPLICATION PROCESS - The CEO will manage the process of short-listing and interviewing

Interviews for short-listed candidates will be held in person at WembleyStadium w/c 10th Feb 2025

We are committed to removing barriers that may arise during any stage of the recruitment process. If you have a disability and require the advert in an alternative format or would like to discuss any adjustments to the interview process to better support your needs, please let us know.

Further Information

Website Redesign - We are excited to announce that the Wembley StadiumFoundation’s website is currently being redesigned to align with our refreshed identity and broadened mission. The new website, launching by the end of January, will provide enhanced functionality, detailed programme information, and improved accessibility for all users.

Our Trustees - The Foundation is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees who bring expertise from sectors such as sport, business, charity, and community development.Their leadership ensures that we remain focused on delivering impactful programmes and fulfilling our mission. You can find a list of our trustees on the charity commission website.

Our Mission and Values - The Wembley Stadium Foundation is committed to empowering communities through sport, movement, and culture, fostering inclusivity, and creating meaningful change. We aim to reflect these values not only in our work but also in our recruitment and workplace environment.

Contact Us - If you have any questions about this role, require further information, or would like to have an informal and confidential chat, please contact Paul Findlay, CEO.