628 Support officer jobs

A little bit about the role

Contract: Full time, fixed term
Salary: £87,632.09 (incl London Office Allowance) plus competitive pension
Location: Hybrid- 2 days per week in London Office

The Culture and Operations Director (COD) ensures Frontline is a high-performing, well-governed charity with a strong culture of freedom and responsibility - a place people can do their best work to achieve Frontline’s mission.

They have strategic responsibility for charity-wide planning to ensure Frontline’s operational functions, effectively support teams to navigate challenges whilst maximising new opportunities. The successful candidate will join Frontline at a pivotal moment and play a key role in driving the next exciting step of our growth.

The COD will ensure high-quality operational support is available to all teams. Working closely with Frontline’s Leadership Group (Heads and Directors), to make sure that the appropriate and timely information, tools and guidance (e.g. HR, IT and finance) are available to managers and teams as needed. This includes working alongside other members of SLT, to:

• Confidently support Frontline through a period of growth and structural change
• Embody the culture of freedom and responsibility, leading by example, and implementing strategies which improve efficiency and quality
• Maintain Executive oversight of Frontline’s finances, working  with Head of Finance and Finance Audit and Risk Committee (FARC) Chair to ensure budgeting and financial decision-making is robust and strategic, to support the ongoing stability of the charity
• Maintain clear communication across teams, ensuring a connected and informed workforce who collaborate effectively. Oversee the success of key events such as annual all-staff away days, monthly gatherings and leadership stocktakes
• Develop strong relationships with key stakeholders including Frontline trustees, partner organisations and the Department for Education (DfE)
• Effectively lead teams to maintain Frontline's strong track-record of meeting legal/regulatory requirements, to minimise risk to the charity

Key Responsibilities

The COD will lead teams delivering on operational priorities in line with freedom and responsibility, to ensure we remain high performing:

Change management:

• Lead the coordination and project-management of an organisation-wide restructure, ensuing the charity is well-positioned to deliver on contractual obligations whilst diversifying to further amplify our impact and that teams are kept well-informed and feed into structural changes
• Support Frontline teams to work  collaboratively and deliver plans to broaden the scope of Frontline's work, extending activity beyond current areas of focus whilst maintaining a strong, shard commitment to Freedom and Responsibility.
• Develop and adhere to tracking and monitoring systems ensuring annual priorities remain on track to achieve Frontline's mission and long-term strategy.

People and Culture:

• Manage the Head of People to identify new and creative ways to further strengthen and embed our culture and grow personal accountability
• Support the Head of People to ensure excellent HR administration, support and use of data (e.g. staff turnover, sickness levels and performance reporting) to inform future planning and decision-making
• Ensure the team design and deliver high-quality staff induction and training which support staff to thrive (e.g. personal leadership, managing effectively and radical candour)
• Maintain awareness of trends and developing technologies to support efficiencies, e.g approaches to recruitment and support to managers.

Finance and Governance:

• Manage Head of Finance and Compliance to ensure sound budget management (£25m annually), financial controls and clear reporting mechanisms are in place
• Work with the Finance team to ensure FARC and the board have the necessary information and confidence in the financial leadership of Frontline.

Charity Quality and Efficiency:

• Manage and support IT and System leads across Frontline, ensuring they have the resources and compliance mechanisms to ensure robust systems are in place.
• Support Contract Governance teams to negotiate and implement significant government contracts, ensuring outcomes are achievable and effective governance and commercially sound contracts are in place.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job title: Executive Assistant and Projects Coordinator

Contract: Part Time/4 days per week or full-time/5 days per week if preferable. Flexibility regarding working pattern. Permanent contract.

Salary: Up to £25,584 (4 days per week) and £32,000 (full time) and depending on experience.  

Responsible to: Gestalt Centre CEO

Location: Hybrid working, remotely and in-person at London Kings Cross.  

ABOUT THE ORGANISATION

We are the Gestalt Centre, an established not-for-profit therapy organisation supporting the mental and psychological wellbeing of individuals, groups and organisations.

We deliver a range of therapy, personal and professional development courses, alongside therapeutic services.

Gestalt is a relational, humanistic approach that helps people build meaningful relationships, navigate change and lead fulfilling lives.

Our work is grounded in the values of diversity, equality and inclusion; kindness, respect and working collaboratively together.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Purpose and Offer

We are looking for a highly organised, people-oriented Executive Assistant and Projects Coordinator to support our CEO and the workstreams she leads. This is a varied and rewarding role combining executive support, project coordination, governance and organisational development.

You will work closely with senior leaders and colleagues across teams, with strong support and opportunities to develop.

✔ Join a welcoming, purpose-led and dynamic organisation with collaborative, human-centred ways of working.

✔ Work closely with our CEO and Leadership Team in a varied role.

✔ Access coaching, support and development opportunities to grow professionally.

✔ Join the Gestalt Centre – a beacon of excellence in the therapy world.

✔ Enjoy significant flexibility and autonomy, hybrid working and an accessible central London location.

Areas of Work and Responsibility 

Executive support to the CEO

· Provide administrative support to the Gestalt Centre CEO, ensuring effective diary management, scheduling, and administration of commitments.

· Organise and coordinate meetings, including supporting the drafting of agendas, collating papers and ensuring all necessary information is available in advance.

Leadership and governance coordination and support

· Coordinate Leadership Team, Board and sub-committee meetings, ensuring smooth end-to-end administration.

· Prepare, collate and circulate papers, working with the CEO and Leadership Team to ensure accuracy and timeliness and maintain good records. 

Workstreams and projects coordination

· Coordinate and support projects and workstreams led by the CEO, including the short courses programme, marketing campaigns, organisational policies, business development and fundraising activities.

· Act as a central point of contact for cross-team activities and support priority initiatives by coordinating meetings, actions and follow-ups.

· Liaise with the CEO and Leadership Team to maintain workstream plans, tracking priority actions and progress.

Administration, systems and information management

· Maintain effective filling, records and document management systems. 

· Support organisational databases and digital systems, and produce and format documents, presentations and reports as required.

Communication and stakeholder support

· Support internal and external communications on behalf of the CEO, ensuring tone, clarity and accuracy.

· Build and maintain effective working relationships across the organisation. 

· Provide a professional and responsive point of contact for queries directed to the CEO’s office.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Experience

· Educated to degree level or equivalent, with good numeracy and literacy skills.

· Experience providing executive or senior administration support to senior leaders, managing priorities and coordinating activities in a dynamic, busy environment.

· Experience coordinating projects, workstreams or organisational initiatives, including tracking actions, timelines and delivery.

· Strong organisational and planning skills, with excellent attention to detail.

· Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

· Confidence using databases, digital systems and information management processes.

· Able to work collaboratively and independently, using own initiative.

· Preferably experience working in a not-for-profit, charity, educational or therapy setting.

Personal and professional attributes

· Flexible, proactive and solutions-focused, working with kindness and respect.

· Calm, confident and adaptable, with the ability to anticipate needs and work with tact, diplomacy, discretion and integrity.

· Reliable and resilient, able to work effectively both as part of a team and independently with minimal supervision.

· Comfortable working remotely and happy to be in the office once or twice a week.

For a full job describtion, please see the document attached. And if it sounds like you - we'd love to hear from you!

Are you a proactive and detail-oriented finance professional, with experience of charity accounting and a customer-focused approach? Do you take pride in ensuring income is accurately recorded and reported and enjoy working with data? The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity is seeking a Finance Officer (Income) to play a key role within our Finance team, helping to ensure the Charity's income is managed accurately and efficiently.

About the Role: The Finance Officer (Income) is a vital member of the Finance team, responsible for the accurate accounting, reconciliation, and reporting of the Charity's diverse income streams. You will manage the monthly income reconciliation process, prepare income journals, support Gift Aid accounting, and work closely with colleagues across Finance, Data and Fundraising teams to ensure income is recorded correctly and allocated to the appropriate funds and appeals.

The role offers the opportunity to gain broad experience across charity finance, including income accounting, fund accounting, Gift Aid, audit support, and financial controls. You will contribute to maintaining robust financial processes and help ensure the Charity can maximise the impact of every donation received.

Why Join Us?  The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity supports one of the world’s leading cancer centres, funding ground-breaking research, cutting-edge equipment, and extraordinary patient care. We’ve exceeded our fundraising goals in recent years and aim to raise at least £215 million during our current five-year strategic period.

This is an exciting opportunity to further strengthen and develop the Finance function so it is well positioned to support the Charity through its five-year strategy, while playing a meaningful role in improving the lives of people living with cancer.

Ideal Candidate: You will have experience working within a finance team and be working towards a finance qualification, with strong organisational skills and excellent attention to detail. You will be comfortable working with large volumes of financial data, performing reconciliations, and investigating discrepancies.

You will bring strong Excel skills, a proactive and collaborative approach, and the ability to manage competing priorities while meeting deadlines. Experience supporting audit or year-end processes and working with financial systems is essential. Above all, you will be committed to RMCC's purpose and values and motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

What We Offer

· 27 days annual leave + bank holidays

· Generous pension scheme with up to 6% employer contribution (increasing to 8% after two years of employment)

· Flexible working options

· Study support for accountancy exams

· Life insurance, employee assistance programme, shopping and other discount schemes and more

· Bright, modern offices in Chelsea and Sutton with subsidised canteens

 Inclusion Matters

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter of no more than 2 pages via CharityJob.

Closing date: Monday 21st September 2026 (11.30pm)

Please note: To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

We are looking for a highly organised and proactive Project Coordinator to support the effective delivery of our assessment, onboarding, grants administration and event activities. This role is central to ensuring a positive experience for applicants and participants throughout their journey, providing excellent customer service, coordinating key processes, and maintaining accurate records across multiple platforms. The successful candidate will be confident managing competing priorities, have exceptional attention to detail, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.

The role involves coordinating assessment and recruitment activities from initial enquiries through to final decisions, ensuring applicants receive a professional and positive experience throughout the process. Responsibilities include managing applications, coordinating interviews and selection panels, preparing panel documentation, communicating outcomes, and supporting assessment activities. Working closely with programme and grants colleagues, you will ensure processes run smoothly, deadlines are met, and accurate records are maintained.

In addition, you will support participant onboarding, grants administration, and event delivery. This includes maintaining participant records across multiple systems, carrying out verification checks, processing grant payments, and supporting the logistics of in-person events.

We are looking for someone with excellent organisational and administrative skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. The successful candidate will also contribute to improving team processes and developing specialist knowledge in key areas of programme delivery, helping to ensure the efficient and effective operation of our programmes.

About Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales is an independent charitable foundation, backed by Lloyds Banking Group and the people within it. We want everyone to be in a good place - personally, in a home that’s a good place to live, and in a community that’s a good place to belong. 

We play our role by connecting and catalysing community-led change, providing the money, time, tools and connections that build organisations’ capacity and capability, to make people’s lives better and their communities stronger. 

We back people and communities across England and Wales, to make that happen, because when you back brilliant people, brilliant things happen. Our communities are full of ambitious, energetic and determined people stepping up to make their neighbours’ lives better and their communities grow stronger. Day in, day out. 

About the Role

Contract:Full-time, permanent (we are open to conversations about flexibility so please ask)

Location:Remote, with significant travel across all corners the UK and monthly visits to our London office

This is an exciting new opportunity in the Strategic Communications Team at the Foundation.

You’ll play a key role setting up and organising a varied programme of visits, to engage more people in our mission and ultimately help more people in England and Wales to say “I’m in a good place,” “My home is a good place to live,” and “My community is a good place to belong”.

Bringing strong organisational, relationship-building abilities and creativity, you’ll arrange visits for senior stakeholders – MPs, philanthropists, trustees, partners, and executives from Lloyds Banking Group, to community-led groups we’re funding and local areas driving systems change.

Through thoughtful engagement, you'll build lasting relationships and raise awareness of social issues, to ensure visits generate meaningful impact.

You will support colleagues and partners to maximise opportunities, follow up actions, and effectively generate and use content, stories, videos and images to tell powerful stories.

Importantly, you’ll ensure community-led organisations experience these visits as supportive and beneficial, and that their voices are centred in all that occurs and follows, aligning with our mission to foster community-led change.

About You

You are highly organised, with experience coordinating events, or visits involving

multiple stakeholders. 

Alongside strong communication skills, with an understanding of how to apply

organisational narratives to local activity, you’ll have the ability to balance competing priorities.

You will bring experience partnering across teams and directorates along with excellent

relational skills to build trust and rapport with internal and external stakeholders.

How to Apply 

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ to be redirected to the application form. 

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

We hold Disability Confident Employer status (Level 2) and are working towards full status by 2027. This means that if you're a disabled applicant and your CV and application answers clearly demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria for the role, we will invite you to interview. 

More broadly, we are committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities and people we work with. We believe that diversity of background, experience and perspective makes us stronger and helps us make better decisions. We actively welcome applications from people who are under-represented in the charity sector, including people from Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic communities, disabled people, and those with experience of the issues our funded charities work to address. 

Key Dates 

Closing Date: Monday 21 September 2026, 12 noon

First Interviews:  Tuesday 29 September 2026 (online)

Second Interviews:  Tuesday 6 October 2026 (in person – London Office)

#Visits And Communications Officer #Visits Officer #Communications Officer #Visits Coordinator #Communications Coordinator #Visits And Communications

Help strengthen the organisation behind the UK’s professional voice and trade union for midwives and maternity support workers.

Location: Hybrid, with travel to London and across the UK as required
Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 12th October 2026

Who we are

The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) is the membership organisation, professional association and trade union for midwives and maternity support workers across the UK.

We support our members throughout their careers, from education and training through to the day they leave the profession. Our work is guided by members and focused on improving their working lives, amplifying their voices and building our midwifery community.

The RCM plays an important role in maternity services, workforce issues, professional leadership, campaigning and public policy. Our members need an organisation that is influential, responsive and trusted, with the systems, insight and confidence to support them well.

About the role

The Chief Operating Officer will help the RCM turn its strategy into disciplined, inclusive and member-focused delivery.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, Board, Executive Team and colleagues across the four nations, you will strengthen the business engine behind the RCM’s purpose. This includes financial planning, governance, risk, compliance, digital, data, CRM, operational performance, supplier management and organisational improvement.

The role comes at an important stage in the RCM’s development. We have made significant progress in working as One RCM, bringing together our professional association, trade union, membership and business functions around a shared commitment to members. The next COO will build on that work by improving financial grip, strengthening data and insight, developing clearer systems and helping teams work with greater confidence and accountability.

What we are looking for

You will bring significant senior leadership experience in a broad organisational role, such as COO, Deputy CEO, Chief Executive, Director of Corporate Services, Director of Resources or a comparable position.

You will understand how to build strong business infrastructure, improve systems and lead change through people. An accounting qualification is not required; however, you will have experience delivering strategic financial management. Importantly, we need someone confident with governance and risk, who is interested in how data, CRM and insight can improve member experience and decision-making.

You do not need to have worked in an organisation exactly like the RCM. Experience in a membership organisation, professional body, trade union, charity or values-led organisation would be helpful, but we are also interested in leaders from other settings who bring the judgement, curiosity and humility to understand our distinctive role.

If you connect with the RCM’s purpose and can help strengthen the organisation that supports midwives and maternity support workers across the UK, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Please click on the link to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the role and how to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 12th October 2026.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

The Safeguarding Officer is responsible for delivering high-quality operational safeguarding across RABI, ensuring safeguarding concerns involving beneficiaries are managed consistently, professionally and in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance and organisational policy.

Working as one of two Safeguarding Officers, the postholder provides specialist safeguarding advice, guidance and support to colleagues across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The role manages safeguarding concerns from initial notification through to resolution, undertakes safeguarding risk assessments, coordinates safeguarding activity, maintains accurate safeguarding records, supports multi-agency working and contributes to achieving safe outcomes for beneficiaries.

Working closely with the Safeguarding Manager, the second Safeguarding Officer and the Designated Safeguarding Lead, the postholder contributes to the continuous improvement of safeguarding practice, supports organisational safeguarding awareness and helps maintain a resilient safeguarding service through collaborative working and continuity of operational delivery.

Key Accountabilities

1. Operational Safeguarding

• Work alongside the Safeguarding Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead to support the continuous development and implementation of safeguarding practice across the organisation.
• Act as an operational point of contact for staff, volunteers and external partners regarding safeguarding concerns and queries, providing advice and guidance whilst escalating complex or high-risk matters appropriately.
• Manage safeguarding concerns from initial notification through to resolution, ensuring concerns are assessed, risk managed, recorded and progressed in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance and RABI policies and procedures.
• Undertake safeguarding risk assessments, exercising professional judgement to support proportionate, person-centred and defensible safeguarding decision-making.
• Promote professional curiosity, reflective practice and consistent safeguarding approaches across the organisation.
• Provide delegated Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead cover in the absence of both the Designated Safeguarding Lead and both Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads, in accordance with RABI policies, procedures and delegated authority.

2. Professional Advice and Guidance

• Provide specialist safeguarding advice, guidance and practical support to Regional Support Officers, managers, staff and volunteers to support the effective management of safeguarding concerns and increase confidence in safeguarding practice.
• Support colleagues to recognise safeguarding concerns, understand safeguarding responsibilities and apply safeguarding procedures consistently.
• Support the Safeguarding Manager in developing and delivering safeguarding training, awareness sessions and operational guidance for staff and volunteers.
• Effectively engage with staff and volunteers across RABI to promote safeguarding awareness, encourage good practice and embed a positive safeguarding culture.

3. Case Management, Recording and Information Management

• Maintain day-to-day administration, quality assurance and oversight of safeguarding records within RABI's case management system, ensuring information is accurate, timely, complete and compliant with organisational standards.
• Follow up safeguarding recording queries and support colleagues in maintaining high-quality safeguarding records.
• Prepare and provide operational safeguarding information, data, trends and case information to support the Safeguarding Manager in producing monthly, quarterly and annual safeguarding reports.
• Produce clear, evidence-based safeguarding documentation and maintain confidentiality in accordance with information governance requirements.
• Identify emerging safeguarding themes, trends and learning to support continuous improvement of safeguarding practice.
• Monitor safeguarding activity to ensure agreed actions are completed appropriately and within agreed timescales.
• Maintain confidentiality and information governance standards in accordance with organisational policy and legislation.

4. Partnership Working

• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with Adult and Children's Social Care, Police, Health Services, Mental Health Services, Domestic Abuse Services, counselling providers and other statutory and voluntary sector partners.
• Coordinate safeguarding referrals and information sharing, ensuring referrals are timely, appropriate and well evidenced.
• Represent RABI appropriately within multi-agency safeguarding discussions and maintain effective working relationships that support positive outcomes for beneficiaries.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation, guidance and referral pathways across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

5. Service Delivery and Continuous Improvement

• Promote and champion safeguarding practice across all departments, supporting compliance, increasing staff awareness and embedding safeguarding within everyday practice.
• Maintain effective working relationships with internal teams, including Volunteering, Partnerships, Fundraising, Campaigns and other departments, providing safeguarding advice on new initiatives and emerging projects.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance and best practice, proactively engaging with professional networks and partner organisations to ensure RABI continues to deliver high-quality safeguarding practice.
• Manage referrals into RABI's counselling provision, ensuring agreed service standards and referral processes are maintained.
• Facilitate safeguarding supervision sessions with Regional Support Officers and Regional Support Managers where agreed by the Safeguarding Manager.
• Support the management and monitoring of RABI's StaySafe lone working system.
• Work collaboratively with the Safeguarding Manager and second Safeguarding Officer to ensure continuity of safeguarding provision during periods of leave, absence or increased operational demand.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the responsibilities and grading of the role.

Decision Making and Autonomy

The Safeguarding Officer manages a varied operational safeguarding caseload, exercising professional judgement within legislation, statutory guidance and organisational policy.

The postholder independently assesses safeguarding concerns, determines appropriate safeguarding actions and coordinates operational safeguarding interventions. Complex safeguarding concerns involving significant organisational, legal or reputational risk are escalated to the Safeguarding Manager.

Strategic safeguarding leadership, policy development, organisational assurance, resource management and line management remain the responsibility of the Safeguarding Manager. 

Key Working Relationships

Internal

• Safeguarding Manager
• Second Safeguarding Officer
• Regional Support Officers
• Service Delivery colleagues
• Managers, staff and volunteers

External

• Adult and Children's Social Care
• Police
• Health Services
• Mental Health Services
• Domestic Abuse Services
• Counselling Providers
• Voluntary and Community Organisations
• Other safeguarding partners 

Person Specification

Qualifications and Professional Development

Essential

• Educated to degree level or able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge and experience gained through professional practice.
• A recognised safeguarding qualification or evidence of substantial safeguarding training relevant to the role.
• Commitment to maintaining continuing professional development and keeping knowledge of safeguarding legislation, guidance and best practice up to date.
• Willingness to undertake further training appropriate to the requirements of the role.

Desirable

• Specialist safeguarding qualifications or accredited safeguarding training.
• Mental Capacity Act, Domestic Abuse, MARAC, Prevent, suicide prevention or trauma-informed practice training.
• Membership of a relevant professional body.

Knowledge

Essential

• Sound knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance and best practice relating to adults.
• Understanding of safeguarding principles, risk assessment, information sharing and multi-agency working.
• Knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of statutory safeguarding partners.
• Understanding of professional boundaries, confidentiality, consent and information governance.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practice within complex family situations, domestic abuse, mental ill health, self-neglect, exploitation, substance misuse and other safeguarding risks.
• Understanding of equality, diversity, inclusion and the impact of discrimination and disadvantage on vulnerability.

Desirable

• Knowledge of safeguarding arrangements across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Sound knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance and best practice relating to children.
• Understanding of safeguarding within charities or community-based services.
• Awareness of issues affecting farming and rural communities.

Experience

Essential

• Substantial experience of managing safeguarding concerns relating to adults.
• Experience of managing safeguarding concerns within a professional setting.
• Experience of undertaking safeguarding risk assessments and making defensible safeguarding decisions.
• Experience of providing safeguarding advice and guidance to colleagues.
• Experience of working collaboratively with statutory agencies and partner organisations.
• Experience of maintaining accurate, confidential and legally compliant case records.
• Experience of managing competing priorities within a busy operational environment.

Desirable

• Experience within the voluntary or charity sector.
• Experience of coordinating safeguarding referrals.
• Experience of contributing to safeguarding training or awareness programmes.
• Experience of using electronic case management or customer relationship management systems.
• Experience of supporting organisational service improvement.

Skills and Abilities

Essential

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds.
• Ability to build positive and credible working relationships with colleagues and external partners.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to assess complex information, identify risk and exercise sound professional judgement.
• Ability to make timely, evidence-based decisions while balancing risk, professional guidance and organisational responsibilities.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise competing demands and manage a varied workload.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, accurate and professional records and reports.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
• Competent user of Microsoft Office applications and electronic case management systems.

Desirable

• Experience of delivering presentations or training.
• Ability to analyse safeguarding data and identify emerging themes.
• Experience of contributing to policy or procedural development.

Personal Attributes

The successful postholder will demonstrate:

• Integrity, professionalism and sound ethical judgement.
• Empathy, compassion and respect for the dignity and individuality of beneficiaries.
• Resilience and the ability to remain calm when managing complex or emotionally demanding situations.
• Professional curiosity and a commitment to understanding the wider context of safeguarding concerns.
• Confidence to provide constructive challenge where safeguarding practice requires improvement.
• Commitment to collaborative working and continuous learning.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and service improvement.
• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing organisational and operational priorities.

Additional Requirements

• Enhanced DBS clearance.
• Ability to travel throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Flexible approach to occasional travel and operational requirements.
• Commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality, equality and professional standards. 

This role profile is not exhaustive and is subject to review in conjunction with the postholder, as per future developments at RABI. 

Early applications are encouraged for this position as shortlisting and interviews will take place on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a suitable application prior to the deadline.

BENEFITS:

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (based on full-time working).
• Enrolment to Nest on commencement of employment and then opportunity to join RABI’s group pension scheme with Standard Life where RABI make contributions equivalent to 10% of your basic salary, provided you make a personal contribution of 5%. 
• Life assurance from day one. 
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Support with personal and professional development.
• On site parking.

RABI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. It aims to ensure that all employment practices secure equality of opportunity and that no prospective or current employee receives less than favourable treatment at RABI because of their sex, sexual orientation, age, race, religion, belief, ethnic origin, disability, marital, or for any other reason which cannot be shown to be justifiable. Our recruitment process is designed to ensure that individuals are selected based solely on their relevant skills, experience, qualifications and abilities. 

An exciting opportunity!

This is a rare and genuinely exciting opportunity to lead the UK's only dedicated charity supporting children, adults and families affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related lysosomal storage disorders. Following the current Chief Executive's planned move to become Managing Director of Rare Disease Research Partners (RDRP) in January 2027, the incoming CEO will take the helm of an organisation with over forty years of history, a trusted national reputation and a growing role on the international rare disease stage. The successful candidate will shape the strategic vision for more than 1,800 families, oversee the close partnership between the Society and its research subsidiary RDRP, and champion the patient and family ethos that sits at the heart of the organisation's work. It is an opportunity to combine ambitious strategic leadership with deeply meaningful, human impact, working alongside a committed Board, Senior Leadership Team and wider community of clinicians, researchers and pharmaceutical partners.

As our next Chief Executive, you will

• Define and deliver the MPS Society’s strategic vision.
• Provide confident oversight of governance, finance, compliance and reporting.
• Effectively manage the operational alignment between the MPS Society and RDRP.
• Always keep the members and family voice at the heart of strategy, service design and decision-making.
• Build and maintain senior-level relationships with statutory bodies, government agencies, pharmaceutical partners, clinical expert centres and other key stakeholders to support the Society’s objectives, influence policy and practice, and protect its professional reputation.
• Act as a visible and credible public voice to raise awareness, improve visibility, support, treatment access and outcomes for people affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related conditions.
• Collaborate with other rare disease bodies, patient organisations and other key audiences.
• Lead and empower the senior leadership team through effective delegation, early involvement in strategic discussions, clear accountability and support for individuals to flourish.
• Encourage an open, supportive work environment allowing creativity and building staff confidence.
• Help shape the future of the MPS Society.

About you

•  Self-motivated, with the drive to lead the organisation through a period of change and transition.
• Unquestionable probity and personal integrity, given the trust placed in the CEO by families, trustees and partners.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills, able to convey complex scientific and clinical information to audiences ranging from clinicians to families with no prior knowledge of MPS disorders.
• Strong self-awareness, with insight into their own leadership style and impact on others.
• Emotional resilience, able to sustain performance while supporting a community facing life limiting conditions.
• A collaborative and empowering leadership style, able to build trust, delegate effectively and help individuals across the organisation flourish.
• Genuine passion for the Society's mission, with a family and member-first ethos.
• Confidence to build relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, from beneficiaries and Trustees to politicians, media and pharmaceutical partners.
• A proactive, positive approach, comfortable reacting to change and organising their own work to meet deadlines.
• Confidence speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation and the people it represents.

Why join us?

A close-knit, values-led culture. With just over thirty staff across the Society and RDRP combined, this is a place where the CEO can know the team personally, work closely with families day-to-day, and see the direct results of decisions rather than managing at a distance through layers of bureaucracy.

• Genuine autonomy to shape direction. The Board is explicitly looking to the new CEO to bring fresh thinking on technology, AI, and digital tools, and to give real freedom to modernise fundraising, services, and engagement rather than simply maintaining what already exists.
• A stable foundation to build from over forty years of track record, trusted relationships and a strong national reputation mean the incoming CEO can focus energy on vision and growth rather than firefighting or rebuilding credibility from scratch.
• Proximity to cutting-edge science: the Society's close relationship with RDRP gives the CEO regular exposure to advances in rare disease research and treatment access, while day-to-day research leadership sits with the RDRP Managing Director, allowing the CEO to focus on strategy, people and sustainability.
• A high-visibility, high-influence platform. Regular contact with government, pharmaceutical companies, clinicians and international rare disease bodies offers strong opportunities to build a public profile and personal network well beyond the charity sector.
• A team that already shares the mission. Staff are described as passionate about the Society's aims, and as having a family-first ethos, so the new CEO inherits a culture to lead and empower rather than one that needs to be built from the ground up.
• Work with a different kind of return. Beyond salary and career progression, this role offers the less tangible reward of knowing that strategic and financial decisions translate, into better support for families facing some of the rarest conditions in the country.

Benefits

Join us and you will be working for a caring charity offering:

• A competitive salary
• Generous annual leave
• Extra leave between Christmas and the New Year
• Contributory pension
• Life assurance (subject to the conditions of the scheme)
• Employee assistance programme offering support 24/7

Further information

The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the UK.

The main duties, responsibilities and requirements of this role can be viewed in the job description on our website.

Salary to be agreed depending on experience and will be pro-rata for part time hours.

This is an essential car user post. The applicant must hold a current UK driver’s licence, with no more than 6 points, have access to a car and be able and willing to drive UK wide as required.

This senior role requires flexibility in working hours and location.  It is primarily offered on a hybrid basis with a minimum of 2 days in our Amersham, Buckinghamshire, office each week. As part of the role, UK and overseas travel is necessary, which may on occasion include early morning and/or evening working and sometimes overnight stays. We have policies in place to ensure that any unsociable hours worked over the weekend are fairly compensated through TOIL.

This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS) details of which can be found in the job description.

For an informal discussion about the role or the work of the MPS Society, please contact Dr Fiona Stewart.  Contact details can be found on the full job description. Kindly note, meetings with other relevant people will be available to shortlisted candidates at interview stage.  

Work with us and help make a difference!

Salary: £45-50,000 FTE, dependent on experience
Hours: 15 hours (2 days per week)
Contract: Permanent

Help us make homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring.

Harrogate Homeless Project (HHP) is a leading local charity supporting people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity across the Harrogate district. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Financial Controller to join our senior team and play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of our organisation.

This is an exciting opportunity for a finance professional who wants to use their skills to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable people whilst helping shape the future of a respected and ambitious charity.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the Financial Controller will oversee all financial and accounting activities across the organisation. Working closely with our Finance Officer, management team, Treasurer and Board of Trustees, you will ensure robust financial management, compliance with charity accounting standards, and provide strategic financial insight to support organisational decision-making.

You will take ownership of financial reporting, budgeting, cashflow forecasting, year-end accounts and audit preparation, while also helping to identify opportunities to strengthen financial performance and improve systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day financial management of the charity.
• Prepare timely and accurate management accounts and financial reports.
• Ensure compliance with charity accounting regulations and SORP requirements.
• Lead the annual budgeting process, forecasting and financial planning.
• Manage cashflow and support organisational risk management.
• Prepare year-end accounts and coordinate audit requirements.
• Monitor and report on grant income, restricted funds and project budgets.
• Provide financial advice and guidance to senior management and trustees.
• Manage and support the Finance Officer through effective supervision and development.
• Oversee payroll processes and key financial systems.
• Manage finance-related contracts, including accounting software, payroll and business subscriptions.
• Support fundraising activities by providing financial information for grant applications and funding reports.
• Work collaboratively across departments to support organisational objectives.

About You

We are looking for someone who combines strong technical financial expertise with excellent communication skills and a genuine commitment to the values of the voluntary sector.

Why Join Harrogate Homeless Project?

At HHP, you’ll be part of a dedicated team committed to transforming lives and creating positive change within our community. We offer the opportunity to make a real impact, influence strategic decision-making and contribute to the growth and sustainability of a well-established local charity.

If you are a finance professional looking for a rewarding role where your expertise can directly support people facing homelessness, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits Include

• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus birthday leave.
• Healthcare package.
• Travel benefits.
• Workplace pension scheme.
• The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of women experiencing homelessness.

About Us

Harrogate Homeless Project provides people experiencing homelessness with a safe place to stay and the support they need to build confidence and move towards independent living.

We work with partners to give people facing disadvantage hope of a different future and empower people to change their lives through support, accommodation and opportunity.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter to Richard Cooper or call for an informal conversation about the role.

Closing Date: 4 October 2026

We will assess applications as they are received and interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis. Therefore, we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is appointed. Early applications are encouraged.

Harrogate Homeless Project is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

PWSA UK is looking for an individual who is experienced in individual supporter fundraising, capable of growing our income from our community network, individual givers including seasonal and capital campaigns. You will have the drive to make a difference for our stakeholders, be able to build strong supporter relationships at a distance and create compelling proposals that connect donors with PWSA UK’s mission and will enjoy working independently in a small team. 

About the role

This is a new role and you will manage and maintain a regular giving programme for new and existing supporters, developing tailored communications, proposals and engagement opportunities for the community that connect donors’ interests with PWSA UK’s mission. Working with colleagues, trustees and volunteers, you will support community fundraising, establish an effective individual giving programme using the CRM and increase the number of legacy pledges achieved over time

• Build and manage an individual giving programme.

• Support and build upon the community fundraising activity

• Develop persuasive campaigns, cases for support and donor communications.

• Maintain the CRM and utlise it to its full potential

• Keep accurate records, forecasts and pipeline reports.

About you

You will be an excellent communicator, careful researcher and organised fundraising manager, with experience in individual giving and community fundraising. You will be confident communicating with donors and senior stakeholders, handle sensitive information with discretion, and share PWSA UK’s commitment to supporting people with Prader-Willi syndrome.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to shape a new fundraising role within a specialist charity and help grow high-value support for PWSA UK’s work.

Citizens Advice Stevenage is an ambitious and innovative member of the Citizens Advice network. We have expanded our services and offering to meet the increased demand in the area, doubling in size over the last few years. 

As a positive subsequence, we are looking for a Head of Finance & Business Support, who will become a core member of the Senior Leadership Team, responsible for overseeing the financial stewardship of Citizens Advice Stevenage. To lead on financial governance, business support operations, and compliance, ensuring the organization operates sustainably and meets all legal and regulatory obligations. The role is pivotal in safeguarding the charity's financial integrity, supporting strategic decision-making, and enabling effective service delivery. 

Financial Leadership 

• Prepare, review, and present draft and final budgets for approval by the board, ensuring timely submission of financial information to the CEO and Trustee Board. 

• Oversee financial reporting processes, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and compliance with regulatory standards, including variance analysis and annual balance sheets, ensuring timely submission of financial information to the CEO and Trustee Board. 

• Manage the reserves policy, ensuring regular review and alignment with operational needs and financial risks. 

• Identify and manage financial risks, ensuring integration into the organization’s risk register and adherence to appropriate mitigations.

• Ensure that the day-to-day finance and back-office function is high performing and compliant, safeguarding effective and efficient financial management processes. 

• To co-ordinate the proactive and timely dissemination of high-quality financial information to services, the CEO, and Board such as annual budgets, monthly management accounts, cash flow analysis, financial forecasting and monthly business performance figures.

• To ensure that the organisation has in place, robust and compliant financial systems and procedures; and that these are complied with by all budget holders, ensuring that any oversights are fully investigated and reported upwards as necessary.

• To lead on the preparation of statutory accounts, provide year end accounts, provide appropriate support and assistance to the organisation’s auditors and delivery of recommendations arising from the Audit process.

• To ensure that all statutory returns are complete in a timely and effective manner, including those in relation to VAT, PAYE, NIC and SSP, and that appropriate compliance dates are met for the Charities Commission and Companies House.

• Oversee the transactions, activities and processes of the external payroll provider.

• To monitor and advise on current and future tax legislation, with a view to optimisation.

• To support service managers in the preparation of bids and contract negotiations and provide financial activity analysis and reports in line with specific project reporting requirements.

• To monitor, report and make recommendations regarding the Investment and Reserves Policy to the Board.

• To oversee the payroll function to ensure employees are paid in an accurate and timely manner.

• To monitor and control creditors and debtors, ensuring invoices are paid on time and the risk of bad debts is minimised.

Compliance and Risk Management 

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory frameworks, including the Charity Commission, Companies House, FCA, ICO, and other relevant bodies. 

• Maintain and regularly review financial systems, controls, and policies, ensuring they are effectively implemented and aligned with legal requirements. 

• Conduct due diligence for pension, redundancy, and other liabilities, ensuring plans are in place for management and mitigation. 

• Support the trustee board in understanding risks related to projects and contracts, providing assurance of compliance with funders’ requirements. 

• To lead on the Risk Management process, advising the CEO and managers on risk matters, and reviewing the risk register on a regular basis, reporting to the Board of Trustees.

• To check, amend and monitor the Financial Procedures Manual; reporting material breaches to the CEO and Board of Trustees, as required/in-line with governance.

• Working with the senior leadership team monitoring and updating Insurance matters as required, reporting to the CEO and Board of Trustees.

Business Support Operations 

• Lead on organisational business continuity planning, ensuring resilience during crises and alignment with the charity's objectives. 

• Oversee the development, implementation, and review of key policies, ensuring they reflect legal obligations and organisational values. 

• Manage IT systems and cybersecurity measures to protect organisational data and operations, ensuring compliance with standards such as Cyber Essentials. 

Strategic Contribution 

• Provides proactive strategic financial advice and guidance to the Trustees and wider leadership team, monitoring and reporting on the financial performance against agreed targets, identified risks and key performance indicators. 

• Provide financial and operational insights to inform strategic decision-making and long-term planning. 

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and financial accountability across the organisation. 

• Funding strategy: Support the CEO and board to regularly review the sustainability of its income sources and their impact on achieving charitable purposes in the short, medium and longer term.

• Work with the CEO and Head of Impact and Development to prepare the funding strategy that should go beyond immediate budgetary considerations and look at the wider funding landscape. The organisation needs to understand potential emerging opportunities and the organisation's readiness to pursue them. 

Team and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Build and maintain effective relationships with trustees, funders, regulators, and key stakeholders, to ensure that Citizens Advice Stevenage meets its financial, regulatory and legal obligations. 

• Provide leadership and support to finance and business support teams, ensuring professional development and effective performance management. 

People management and development  

• Develop and implement a culture of continuous learning that will equip and develop people to deliver outstanding delivery. Responsibility for the training and development plan for the Finance and Business Support ensuring it is in effective operation including maintaining records of training needs identified and training attended.  
   

• Working with the rest of the leadership team ensure the organisation delivers a fair, inclusive, equitable and transparent employee and volunteer experience, taking account of our EDI aims and in line with employment law and the Equality Act 2010. 
   

• Ensure Open and timely communication that provides information about the organisation and context for decisions that are made, helps to build trust and confidence and earn legitimacy. 
   

• Ensure the effective performance management and development of staff through regular supervision sessions, appraisals and learning and development.  
   

Person Specification 

• ACA/ACCA/CIMA Qualified, CPE up to date.

• Strong financial management experience at a similar level within the charity/not for profit sector 

• A proven track record of leading, developing and inspiring small teams 

• Experience of strategic business & financial planning, forecasting and budget management. 

• Sound experience of producing month-end management accounts and audited year-end financial accounts 

• Experience of managing and using financial systems 

• A working knowledge of relevant legislation (regulatory, legal and financial) in the context of a charitable organisation 

• Experience of managing change and change programmes 

• A track record of initiating, leading and managing associated risks 

• Strong influencing, negotiating and collaborative working skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and concisely in writing or verbally 

• Confident IT skills; confident using Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel

• Experience designing and introducing new financial processes, procedures and reports

• Working knowledge of QuickBooks software [advantageous]

• Experience working with a Board of Trustees [advantageous]

• Understanding of Charity Commission and Companies House reporting requirements

• Project and/or professional services experience

• Understanding of Charity Law

• Experience of working in the not-for-profit sector

• Understanding and experience using the Charity Governance Code

• Experience in working with Charity SORP

• Legal experience – as so far as they can scrutinise and review basic contracts and their revenue recognition requirements and VAT implications

• Strategic and forecasting experience

Role: Volunteer and Support Services Lead (Volunteer & Service Operations)

Fixed-term contract (12 months, with possibility of extension)

3 days a week (2.5 days considered for exceptional candidate)

Expected start date October / November 2026, by agreement

£35,000 FTE (£21,000 for 3 days/week)

Location: Remote, with one working day per month in central London

Reports to CEO

About The Loss Foundation

Every year, thousands of adults across the UK turn to The Loss Foundation after the death of someone they love from cancer. At one of the hardest times in their lives, they find a safe place to be understood, connect with others who truly understand, and access specialist support.

Founded by clinical psychologists, The Loss Foundation is the UK's leading charity dedicated to cancer bereavement. Our evidence-informed services are delivered nationally through support groups, workshops, walks and a remarkable community of trained volunteers, ensuring more people can access compassionate support wherever they live. As we continue to grow, we're looking for someone who wants to help shape the next chapter of our support services. You'll join a small, ambitious team where ideas are welcomed, initiative is encouraged and every person makes a meaningful contribution to helping us reach more bereaved people.

About the Role

This is a key role at the heart of The Loss Foundation's support services. A central part of the role is building strong relationships with our extraordinary community of volunteers, ensuring they feel connected to the charity, well supported and equipped to deliver high-quality support. Alongside this, you'll coordinate our programme of bereavement support events and ensure the systems and processes behind our services run smoothly. This is not a clinical or direct bereavement-support role - our support groups and services are delivered by trained volunteers. Instead, you'll enable that support by coordinating our services and providing an excellent experience for the volunteers who deliver them.

We're entering an exciting period of growth. Over the next few years we're expanding our national support services, growing our volunteer community and investing in new ways to reach more bereaved people than ever before. This role will play an important part in making that happen.

Although the role doesn't include formal line management, you'll have real ownership of your area and the opportunity to shape how our services develop. This role would suit someone who enjoys creating structure, building relationships and making a meaningful difference as part of a small, ambitious team.

What Success Looks Like

In your first 3 months you will...

● Learn how our support services and volunteer programme operate.

● Become the main point of contact for volunteers, building trusted relationships with volunteers.

● Take ownership of coordinating our programme of support events.

● Become confident managing the charity's day-to-day operational processes independently.

● Identify at least one opportunity to improve our systems, volunteer experience or service delivery, and begin implementing agreed improvements.

By 6 months you will...

● Have implemented improvements to systems and operational processes.

● Be strengthening and developing the volunteer support cycle.

● Be using insight from volunteers and beneficiaries to continually strengthen our services.
 

By 12 months you will...

● Help shape how The Loss Foundation delivers and grows its support services.

● Lead volunteer recruitment and onboarding.

● Become a key member of a small team helping guide the charity through its next stage of growth.

Key Responsibilities

Volunteer Coordination & Experience

You'll be the main point of contact for our volunteer community, helping volunteers feel informed, valued and well supported.

● Build strong, trusted relationships with volunteers, providing ongoing support and helping them feel connected to and valued by the charity.

● Coordinate volunteer recruitment, onboarding and rotas.

● Maintain volunteer records and day-to-day communications.

● Help shape and continually improve the volunteer experience.
 

Event Coordination

You'll oversee the smooth delivery of The Loss Foundation's programme of support services, ensuring events are well organised, appropriately resourced and delivered to a high standard.

● Coordinate the charity's programme of support groups, workshops, walks and other services.

● Manage event logistics, volunteer allocation and communications.

● Ensure event information is accurate across our systems and website.
 

Process & Systems Improvement

As we grow, you'll help build the operational systems that enable us to support more bereaved people efficiently and consistently.

● Improve systems, processes and automated workflows.

● Monitor service activity and maintain accurate operational data.

● Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and support future growth.

Quality and Service Development

You'll help us continually strengthen our services through feedback and learning.

● Gather and review feedback from volunteers and beneficiaries.

● Recommend improvements to services and volunteer experience.

● Support the appropriate handling of complaints and safeguarding concerns.

About You

This role would suit someone who enjoys building relationships, creating structure, and helping things run smoothly. You'll thrive in this role if you are -

● An excellent organiser who enjoys planning, coordinating and keeping projects on track.

● A warm, approachable communicator who enjoys supporting volunteers and working collaboratively.

● Comfortable managing multiple priorities and solving problems proactively.

● Experienced in managing, coordinating or supporting volunteers, with a track record of building positive volunteer relationships, alongside experience of event, service or operational coordination.

● Confident using digital systems and data, with the curiosity and initiative to learn new platforms, troubleshoot problems and find better ways of working.

● Able to work independently while contributing positively to a small, growing team.

● Motivated by The Loss Foundation's mission and committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality support.

What difference will you make?

You will sit at the heart of The Loss Foundation's support services, ensuring that thousands of people each year receive a warm, compassionate and well-coordinated experience at one of the most difficult times in their lives. By supporting our volunteers, strengthening our systems and helping the charity grow sustainably, you'll play a vital role in enabling us to reach many more people affected by bereavement in the years ahead.

To Apply
Please note: We recently advertised this position, but following some internal changes we have taken the opportunity to review and refine the role. The revised position places greater emphasis on volunteer management and the volunteer experience, and we are therefore re-advertising to reflect this.

To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience via CharityJob.

Interviews will take place remotely on Tuesday 29 September 2026. Candidates progressing from interview may also be invited to a short follow-up conversation before a final appointment is made.

If you have any questions about the role, please feel free to get in touch.

About School of Hard Knocks

School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) is one of the UK’s leading education charities, working in 29 secondary schools across England, Scotland, and Wales. Using rugby as a key delivery tool, we support young people who are struggling to engage in early secondary education - often because of anxiety, low confidence, disrupted home lives, or behavioural challenges rooted in trauma. For many of the children we support, life has already brought more hardship than most adults experience in a lifetime. Our purpose is clear: to help young people facing complex challenges break the cycle and move towards a safer, stronger, more hopeful future.

The SOHK Schools Programme is a two-year intervention working with cohorts of around 20 pupils from Year 7 through to Year 9. Pupils are selected by the school and are typically among the hardest to reach young people. Each week, we deliver half a day of rugby training and classroom sessions built around our 3Cs framework, covering topics such as growth mindset, goal setting, and decision-making, alongside monthly one-to-one sessions with every pupil. The programme’s impact is evaluated by SOHK staff, teachers, parents, and the pupils themselves.

90% of our participants report feeling more confident and more engaged with school after taking part, with long-term effects on attendance, attainment, and life outcomes. Find out more about our Schools Programme.

Since 2023, SOHK has been proud to partner with Impetus, a charity that invests in and supports organisations helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed. This partnership combines investment with strategic and organisational development support, helping to strengthen our impact and set SOHK up for sustainable growth.

We are proud to be delivering long-term programmes that meaningfully reach hundreds of young people each year - but the societal need is vast. Our ambitious four-year strategic plan targets growth, aiming to bring our impactful programme to hundreds more young people each year.

“Despite the usual challenges that every education or sport for development charity faces, School of Hard Knocks really is unique. It is not so much what we deliver at a programme level (which is of course brilliant) but who we are as a team. If you are a values-led leader and love the idea of ‘team’, then School of Hard Knocks is the place for you.”

- Ken Cowen, Founder and outgoing CEO

The Role

The CEO is the public face and leader of SOHK, responsible for the overall strategic direction, vision, and management of the charity - ensuring SOHK meets its mission and strategic objectives while maintaining strong relationships with Trustees, staff, supporters, and the wider SOHK community. We’re looking for a mission-driven charity leader and effective fundraiser, capable of building a sustainable growth model.

Strategy and Direction

● Be the face and voice of the charity - its principal ambassador

● Lead the development and periodic review of SOHK’s strategy with the Trustees and Senior Management Team

● Translate the 2026-30 strategy into organisational priorities, plans, and goals

● Ensure safeguarding, wellbeing, and the lived experience of young people remain central to every decision and growth plan

Programme Delivery, Quality and Impact

● Hold a high bar for programme quality and outcomes for young people

● Line-manage and support the Director of Programmes, working with delivery teams and partners to build a world-class, evidence-based intervention

● Ensure SOHK can evidence the impact of its programmes, with insights feeding back into constant improvement

Income Generation, Fundraising and External Relations

● Lead income generation across trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and challenges and events

● Line-manage and support the Head of Fundraising in executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy

● Hold senior relationships with funders and partners, building SOHK’s brand, reputation, and profile

Leading People, Culture and Operations

● Build and lead a high-performing Senior Management Team

● Foster a positive, inclusive, high-performing culture aligned with SOHK’s values

● Line-manage and support the Director of Finance & Operations, ensuring operational excellence

Governance and the Board

● Act as the primary link between the organisation and the Trustees

● Attend all Trustee meetings (held quarterly) and provide timely, accurate reporting

● Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and Charity Commission requirements

About You

Essential

● Proven senior leadership experience in the charity, education, youth, or social impact sector - whether as CEO or as part of an executive team - including working directly with a Board of Trustees

● Demonstrated success in building or significantly growing an organisation, programme, or initiative

● A collaborative and values-led leadership style, with the ability to inspire trust, hold people to account, and build high-performing teams

● Strong track record of income generation, including securing significant funding from trusts, foundations, corporates, or major donors

● Experience of financial oversight, budgeting, and organisational planning at a senior level

● Strategic thinker, able to translate vision into clear plans and delivery

● Strong relationship-builder and communicator, confident with a wide range of stakeholders

Desirable

● Previous charity CEO experience - a bonus, but not essential; we know brilliant candidates come from a wide range of backgrounds

● Direct classroom, youth work, or education leadership experience

● Knowledge of the UK education system and youth policy landscape

● Experience of scaling a multi-site delivery organisation and working with local authorities

Personal Attributes

● Deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people, especially those facing disadvantage

● Resilient and persistent, able to work under pressure and navigate setbacks

● Collaborative, open, and reflective leader who seeks feedback and learns from it

Terms of Appointment

Contract type

Full-time, permanent

Location

Greater London, with offices in Edinburgh & Cardiff

Salary

£85,000 – £90,000 per year + £5,000 PRP

Reports to

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Direct reports

Director of Programmes; Head of Fundraising; Director of Finance & Operations

Travel

Regular UK travel, primarily to Edinburgh and Cardiff. Occasional evenings for stakeholder engagement and fundraising events

Trustee meetings

Quarterly, in London, in the evening, plus ad hoc subcommittees