Senior research manager jobs

This post will commence in January 2026 for the duration of a 7 month fixed-term contract subject to grant agreement signature.

Location: London WC1H - hybrid, flexible working - 20% of your time per month office based.

Join the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) as Head of Assessment and use your extensive experience in assessment quality, education sector insight, inclusive safety, and operational control to lead the ACU’s contribution to the successful delivery of an education mobility scheme, working with a range of UK-based partners.

The ACU offers a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the higher education sector. We are one of the largest, most diverse international university networks, bringing together over 440 universities in over 40 countries. We support Commonwealth Universities to collaborate and to work together to build a more equitable and sustainable world.

The ACU Programmes, Business Development and International Mobility Team look after a portfolio of research capacity strengthening and education mobility programmes. These programmes are funded by a variety of internal and external funding sources and are often developed in collaboration with ACU member universities and other strategic partners.

The role

The Head of Assessment will lead the ACU’s contribution to the successful delivery of a major education mobility scheme, providing strategic leadership and robust contract management in collaboration with a wide range of UK-based partners (subject to funding being available). This pivotal role demands a results-driven professional with education sector insight and extensive experience in assessment quality, inclusive safety, and operational control. You should be capable of deploying effective tools to monitor progress, manage dependencies, and mitigate risks - ensuring full assurance to the ACU senior team and stakeholders.

Who are we looking for?

You will need:

• Degree level education (with post-graduate qualifications an advantage) or equivalent in professional experience.

• Significant project management experience at a senior level in an educational setting – professional track record and/or appropriate qualifications.

• Demonstrable experience of managing multiple priorities and work under pressure and to deadlines.

• Proven financial skills, with knowledge and experience of budget development, and financial monitoring and reporting.

• Experience of leading, empowering, and motivating teams to promote a high-performance culture.

• Understanding or interest of education sector (HE/Schools/FE/VET) in the UK.

• Strong commitment to widening participation and the values of the ACU – Collaboration, Creativity, Excellence, Equity

What to expect:

We see equity, diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our mission and we value the many different perspectives that people from all backgrounds bring to our collective performance (you can find more about our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and safeguarding on our website by clicking here). We believe in investing in all our people and creating cultures in which everyone can thrive.

We offer a fantastic package of benefits including:

• 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays (pro rata - part time employees) and 4 Christmas closure days

• Generous pension scheme – 5% employee contribution, 10% employer contribution 

• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave

• Significant investment into your personal and professional development

• Regular social activities

• Health and wellbeing programmes

• Give as you earn charitable donations scheme

• Cycle to work scheme

• Interest-free travel season ticket loan

How to apply:

Apply via our recruitment portal, submitting your CV (maximum 2 pages) and online application form (maximum 1000 words) outlining how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the criteria for the role. Please include your motivation for applying.

Closing date: 4 January 2026 @ 23:45

Interview dates TBC

Interviews will take place virtually.

Join a movement transforming how communities create lasting change. This isn't a typical charity role—it's a chance to shape the future of place-based working across the UK and help lead a growing organisation.

Place Matters is a small, entrepreneurial charity punching above its weight. We work at the intersection of communities, public services, funders, and policymakers to tackle the root causes of inequality and create changes that communities want to see. Our approach? Empower communities to lead change in their own places, learn from what works, and influence the systems that hold them back.

Why this role matters

This is a senior position on our Executive team, reporting directly to a co-CEO. You'll play a leadership role in developing our organisation—shaping strategy, building our team, and deepening partnerships. We're looking for someone colleagues and Trustees trust to make sound decisions on behalf of our mission.

Learning and practice development is at the heart of everything we do. You'll design and lead learning partnerships that build the capabilities of communities and organisations to work differently. You'll capture insights from the ground and turn them into accessible tools, frameworks, and resources that make place-based working more effective for everyone.

You need to be a team player, confident and with strong opinions, but low ego and collegiate

What you'll do

• Lead the development and delivery of Learning and Practice Development Partnerships
• Initiate, convene and participate in ‘field-building’ efforts that aim to influence the broader place-based change sector, bringing together community organisations, public sector organisations, policy makers, foundations and businesses to build broader support for community centred place-based change
• Develop Place Matters thought and practice leadership
• Draw together the themes and patterns from learning into regular blogs and publications to make the learning as widely accessible as possible and influence key policy makers and funders
• Initiate and convene field-building efforts to influence the broader place-based change sector
• Build a wide network of place-based practitioners from all sectors
• Play a key role in business development, securing new partnerships, fundraising, and improving organisational efficiency

See job description (JD) for full details

What makes this role special

• Executive leadership: Part of the leadership team shaping organisational direction
• Real autonomy: Lead your own projects, design new partnerships, represent Place Matters externally
• Learning culture: We practice what we preach—continuous learning and innovation are built in
• Flexible working: Hybrid arrangement, negotiable location, with UK travel (up to 50 days annually)
• Competitive salary: £65,000-£75,000 (negotiable based on experience)

Practical details

Ideally 37.5 hours per week (flexible) but we'll consider part-time. UK travel required, including occasional overnight stays and some evening/weekend work.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from disabled people and people from diverse backgrounds.

We'll conduct interviews on 19th and 21st January.

You’ll be responsible for forging meaningful partnerships with local businesses, hosting engaging events that inspire generosity, and nurturing long-term relationships with corporate sponsors. This role requires someone who can express gratitude, maintain strong relationships, and show supporters the real impact of their contributions.

You will be part of our vibrant Business & Events team — a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same

Job Summary 

The Health Information Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day management of our patient and public information about bowel cancer and will work closely with the Senior Health Information Officer and Health Information Manager in the development of information content.

This role is an excellent development opportunity for a proactive person with strong administrative and prioritisation skills who is looking to develop their career in health information. Experience in an information or communications role would be beneficial.

The position offers you a unique and exciting opportunity to make a direct difference for people affected by bowel cancer, ensuring all of the charity’s information meets patient needs, is of the highest quality and has a strong evidence base.

Please note we may interview on a rolling basis before the closing date as applications come in.

Head of Fundraising
£45,000 - £50,000 per annum, plus 8% pension contribution
35 hours per week
Permanent role
Hybrid working – homebased working for the majority of time with a need to attend head office in Godalming on occasions, plus a requirement to travel for events

What You’ll Do:
As our Head of Fundraising, you will play a vital role to help deliver the League’s vision of a kinder society where animals are no longer persecuted in the name of ‘sport’. Your responsibilities will include:

• Driving the development and delivery of the charity’s individual giving programme and all related activities, projects and materials (both offline and digital)
• Maintaining and growing income, ensuring income targets are met while expenditure runs within budget
• Managing and co-ordinating planning and reporting across the Fundraising department
• Ensuring excellent service is delivered to supporters

Who You Are:
We need a strategic-thinking and inspirational leader with a passion for animal welfare, who possesses:

• Significant experience in a fundraising or marketing role within a comparable organisation
• Experience of developing and managing income generating campaigns
• Proven experience of leading teams
• Proven experience of CRM systems, HMRC and gift aid regulations
• Excellent project management skills  

Why Join Us: 
We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance, enjoy flexible working arrangements, including options for compressed hours and remote work from day one. With 28 days of annual leave, plus public holidays, and a generous employer contribution of eight percent towards your pension scheme, we prioritise your well-being. Additionally, our benefits package includes discounts on shopping, electronics, hospitality and leisure. Find out more about working at the League.

The League Against Cruel Sports is committed to inclusivity and diversity, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

We believe that together we can end animal cruelty in the name of sport. Join us in our purposeful mission to redefine what is acceptable and inspire positive change in animal welfare legislation. 

Ready to make a real difference? Don't wait - apply now! We're looking to fill this position quickly and will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis. To apply, please submit your CV along with a covering letter.

Who we are

Grassroots Suicide Prevention (GSP) is a national charity committed to the timely intervention and prevention of suicide. We work to empower people to help save lives through connecting, educating, and campaigning nationally. Our vision is a future where more lives are saved from suicide.

About the role

We’re looking for a highly creative, organised, and experienced Marketing and Content Executive to support the delivery of engaging, high-impact marketing across our growing, purpose-led organisation.

Working closely with the Senior Marketing and Campaigns Manager, you’ll play a key role in producing and managing digital content, with a strong focus on social media, web design, and copywriting.

In this fast-paced role, you’ll drive our social media strategy, produce engaging content and blogs, and manage the design and research for our online Suicide Prevention Hubs. You’ll create compelling copy and visuals across multiple platforms and develop email campaigns and marketing strategies to boost our training course sales and sign-ups.

You’ll have hands-on experience with tools such as Mailchimp, Canva, WordPress, Google Analytics, Hootsuite, and Adobe Creative Suite.

We’re looking for someone who is self-assured, able to manage multiple priorities, and deliver high-quality work consistently. You should be comfortable working independently, making informed decisions, and taking ownership of your workload, while receiving guidance, input, and support from your line manager and the Head of Marketing and Communications.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the creation and delivery of engaging, on-brand content across social media channels, collaborating with the Senior Marketing and Campaigns Manager to enhance reach and visibility.
• Keep our accounts a safe space by taking swift action on abusive or harmful comments, with full support from the team and training in our Social Media policies.
• Oversee the creation, design, and research of our Suicide Prevention Hubs, collaborating with charity partners, writing compelling copy, and coordinating podcasts and blog content.
• Play a key role in driving awareness, sales, and sign-ups for our training courses through effective marketing and promotion.
• Write and edit high-quality copy for blogs, website pages, emails, social posts, and other marketing materials.
• Design on-brand visual assets using Canva to support social, web, email, and print materials.
• Support the creation of award entries, press releases, and promotional materials as needed.
• Help maintain and update our WordPress website and landing pages, ensuring content is up to date, accessible, and optimised for SEO and user experience.
• Support the setup and delivery of email marketing campaigns, including building emails, managing lists, and reviewing performance.
• Contribute to ongoing audience and campaign research, including SEO keyword research, to inform marketing strategies and content planning.
• Assist with campaign reporting and provide administrative support to ensure smooth delivery of projects.

For this role, you will need

• Proven experience in creating and managing engaging social media content across platforms such as Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
• Experience producing high-quality content, including social posts, web copy, blogs, visuals, and email campaigns.
• Experience using design tools like Canva and Adobe InDesign.
• Excellent copywriting and proofreading skills with an adaptable writing style.
• Experience using WordPress, ideally with Elementor.
• Strong organisational and time management skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects.
• Willingness to learn and take direction and feedback from the Senior Marketing and Campaigns Manager and Head of Marketing, while contributing your own ideas.
• A genuine commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and a passion for life-saving work.

Bonus points for

• Experience working at the fast pace of a charity.
• Proven experience working remotely in a small team with strong independence and resilience.
• Experience with video creation.
• Experience managing PR enquiries and writing press releases.
• Experience in sales, particularly course sales.

Why Grassroots Suicide Prevention?

At Grassroots Suicide Prevention, we’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive community and workplace where everyone can be themselves and thrive. We value the unique experiences and skills each person brings and actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. Our recruitment decisions are made based on skills, experience, and knowledge.

Our employee benefits include:
• Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Learning and development opportunities
• A creative, friendly, and collaborative culture

Before applying

This role requires grit and resilience due to the remote working environment, sensitive subject matter, fast pace, and the need for flexible multitasking. If you’ve recently been affected by suicide, please consider whether this role is right for you, as some content may be emotionally triggering.

Key dates

Interviews will take place on an ongoing basis. Please note, our team will be taking a short break from 16 December to 5 January. Applications are still welcome, and we will resume shortlisting in early January.

Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to offer individual feedback at the initial stage. If you do not hear from us, please assume you have not been shortlisted.

Additional information

Grassroots Suicide Prevention is in a period of transition and development, and the post-holder should be aware that their responsibilities may evolve to meet the organisation’s future needs.

Senior Community Fundraiser – North & Midlands

Location: Remote (based in Birmingham or Coventry area) with regular local travel and occasional visits to London and Sheffield
Contract: 18-month fixed term
Hours: 35 per week (open to considering a four-day week)
Salary: £31,000-£34,000

Join Breast Cancer Now – the research and support charity that’s here for anyone affected by breast cancer.
We believe that by 2050, everyone diagnosed with breast cancer will live – and be supported to live well. To make this future a reality, we need passionate fundraisers to help us grow our income and impact.

About the role

As Senior Community Fundraiser, you will be an important part of the team building Breast Cancer Now’s presence across the North and Midlands; local knowledge and networks will be key to success in this role. This is an exciting opportunity to:

• Identify and develop relationships with new supporters including individuals, clubs, societies, and local businesses.
• Nurture existing long-term relationships to increase fund raised income and engagement.
• Lead a brand-new pilot for our award-winning Asda Tickled Pink partnership, engaging stores and inspiring colleagues and customers to raise vital funds.

You’ll dedicate 50% of your time to the Asda Tickled Pink pilot, working closely with store teams to increase engagement and income. The other half will focus on developing community fundraising across your region.

About you

We’re looking for someone who is:

• An excellent relationship builder providing exceptional customer service / account management / stewardship. Previous experience working in a charity is not required.
• Experience in developing  customer relationships  / accounts /  supporters, with a focus on retention and income growth.
• A confident communicator and natural team player, able to inspire and influence a wide range of audiences.
• Highly organised, able to analyse and organise data, work independently and manage budgets.

You’ll need a full clean driving licence, access to a car, and flexibility to travel and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Why join us?

• Be part of a charity that funds life-saving research and provides vital support services.
• Work in a collaborative, inclusive environment where your ideas and impact matter.
• Help shape a pilot project that could transform local engagement for one of the UK’s most successful charity partnerships.

Salary: £31,000-£34,000
Closing date: midday on Monday 5th January 2026
To apply: please share your CV and cover letter with Philippa at Charity People.

Position: Senior Events Fundraiser (Third Party Events)
Type: Full-time (35 hours a week), permanent
Location: Office-based in London with flexibility to work remotely
Salary: £33,044* per annum plus excellent benefits
Salary Band and Job Family: Band 2, Charity

*you’ll start at our entry point salary of £33,044 per annum, increasing to £35,109 after 6 months service and satisfactory performance and to £37,174 after a further 6 months.

About us

We make sure people living with MS are at the centre of everything we do. And it’s this commitment that unites us across the UK.

Our strategy is based on what people affected by MS have told us is important to them. It gives us a clear and determined focus. 

Our work is based on the hopes and aspirations of our MS community. Together we campaign at all levels, fund ground-breaking research and provide award winning support and information. 

Our people are our greatest asset and the key to our success. We offer a vibrant, progressive working environment where you'll be able to make a difference.

About this job

We’re looking for a Senior Events Fundraiser to join our Community, Events, and Retail Fundraising team, leading on the delivery of our third party events activities.

You’ll plan, develop, and promote a well-established portfolio of third party challenge events, working to achieve set income targets, while ensuring an outstanding supporter experience for our event participants.

You’ll also be responsible for developing our third party events portfolio; monitoring and evaluating products, as well as innovating, to create opportunities for future growth.  

Closing date for applications: 9:00 on Monday 15 December 2025

Interested?

PLEASE PRESS THE 'HOW TO APPLY' BUTTON FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Equal Opportunities 
We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and or from ethnic minority backgrounds.

We’d be grateful if you downloaded and completed the equality and diversity monitoring form and submit it with your application. 

Disability Confident Employer 
We’re a Disability Confident Employer and we’re committed to promoting equality and diversity.

You can ask for reasonable adjustments as part of both our recruitment and new starter on-boarding processes.

If you need any help or adjustments to apply for this role, please contact us. You can also ask for the application materials to be sent to you in a different format. Such as for them to be sent to you by email or in a larger word format.

More about our employee benefits:
We have a wide range of employee benefits including (but not limited to): 

Encouraging work life balance

• 38 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), pro-rata for part-time
• More annual leave entitlement, based on length of employment
• Smart working options (with the opportunity to work remotely and find a smart working pattern that suits both you and us) 
• Flexible working options 

Caring for you and your family 

• Generous sick pay entitlement
• More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment 
• Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave in each calendar year 
• Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week allowing you unlimited advice, reassurance and where appropriate diagnosis 
• Enhanced leave for new parents 
• Free access to a confidential 24 hours a day/7 days a week helpline service for both you and your family with a specialist range of support and information
• Special leave options (such as up to 5 days paid leave for domestic or personal emergencies a year)
• 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro-rata for part-time 
• 10 days paid carers’ leave a year, pro-rata for part-time 
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Death in service scheme
• New family-friendly benefits, including paid leave:
  • In the event of miscarriage or still birth 
  • To support fertility treatments
  • For antenatal appointments for both parents

Thinking about your finances 

• Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
• Discounted season ticket loan and interest-free emergency loans
• Give as you earn to support other charities of your choice before tax
• New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing

Enriching your life at work

• Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses and opportunities to source additional training options with your line manager
• Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
• New, modern offices that embrace working together both in-person and remotely 
• Various opportunities to influence how we internally operate (including surveys, and focus and committee groups) 
• Active and supportive internal employee networking groups for collaboration and peer support 
• 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities during normal working hours (such as fundraising events, or campaigning in the local community) 
• 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering with other charities during normal

Safeguarding 
We’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with.

This is regardless of Gender, Race, Disability, Sexual orientation, Religion or belief, Pregnancy, Gender reassignment.

We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected.

We have measures in place to protect everyone we come into contact with from abuse and maltreatment of all kinds.

Your right to work in the UK 
You must have the right to work in the UK to work in paid employment with us. You’ll need to share documents showing you’re eligible to work in the UK if we offer you employment.

You can find the UK visas and permits granting you the right to work in the UK on the UK Government website. We currently don’t have a Sponsor Licence agreement with the Home Office and aren’t able to support you with your visa applications.

No agencies please.

Here at SJT we have long recognised that our role needs to extend beyond simply the provision of entertainment. We firmly believe that culture and creativity bring people together; that the act of sharing stories and experiences helps to build communities; and that, through this collaborative approach, we can be part of helping to solve the challenges our coastal home of Scarborough faces.

We are a producing theatre, working locally, regionally and nationally. We offer a year-round programme of high-quality theatre and film, alongside a wide range of participatory work working with all ages and communities, including youth theatres, community choirs, activities for those with dementia, and schools’ workshops.

We’ve been growing audiences and participants steadily for the last four years and are now ready both to deepen that engagement and to reach out to new demographics. We want to grow our already fruitful partnership between our marketing and fundraising functions; and we want to explore wider organizational marketing, building the SJT brand locally and nationally.

Which is where you come in – a collaborative and hands-on Head of Marketing.  Whilst your experience and expertise will be important in this role, what is every bit as important to us will be your belief in our vision and purpose and your enthusiasm for what we are trying to achieve. If that sounds like you, we’d love you to get in touch.

Job Title: Head of Marketing

Line managed by: Executive Director

Line manages: Marketing Officers, Press Rep, Box Office Manager

Job Purpose

The Head of Marketing is a member of the Senior Management Team and plays a key role in the development and delivery of the company’s marketing, audience engagement and communication strategies. The Head of Marketing is responsible for the delivery of all programme campaigns, as well as working with the Joint Chief Executives on the delivery of a consistent and appropriate external message.

Key responsibilities

To be responsible for the implementation and continued development of the audience engagement strategy;

To lead on the delivery of the brand communications strategy and to work with the Joint Chief Executives on overall brand awareness;

To be responsible for the delivery of the company’s segmentation strategy and to work with the Senior Management Team to ensure a joined-up approach to audience across the organisation;

To work with the Joint Chief Executives and the Senior Management Team on the development and implementation of the digital strategy;

To commission appropriate audience research, carry out regular analysis of audience data, including digital / social analytics, and use insight gathered to help inform future campaigns, audience development and programming plans;

To oversee the effective use of SJT’s box office and CRM system including management of the relationship with Spektrix;

To set and manage sales targets and pricing strategy in consultation with the Executive Director.

Person Specification

Proven experience in delivering and developing audience engagement strategies

Proven expertise in planning and implementing audience campaigns to meet or exceed objectives

Expertise in analysing audience data and reporting on insights

Great attention to detail, with experience of proofreading and adapting campaigns to deliver in line with both strategic goals and brand guidelines

Experience in planning and implementing digital content (website, social, video etc.) to meet or exceed audience objectives

Proven ability to track and monitor the effectiveness of campaigns

Proven ability in developing and managing budgets

A love for theatre and a desire to bring people together to share experiences and stories

Tender is an arts charity working with children and young people to prevent domestic abuse and sexual violence through creative projects. Our programmes are safe, enjoyable, age-appropriate spaces where young people can engage with sensitive topics and “rehearse” for real-life scenarios. Participants are encouraged to be both consumers and producers of learning through script-work, role-play and creative media such as films and art. Throughout, we enable young people to explore their choices, rights and expectations in relationships and to recognise the early warning signs of abuse.

We have an exciting opportunity for someone who is interested in both research and converting that research into compelling data and stories to support our policy and influencing work.

This role will sit within our Research & Impact team, but will work across our communications, fundraising, and policy & influencing teams, particularly working closely with our senior leadership team to support our policy & influencing work. By converting the evidence and research from the research & impact team in to actionable insights and recommendations which can be shared with our funders, supporters and key decision makers such as policy makers and civil servants, you will play an important role in promoting the importance of prevention work as a tool to prevent domestic abuse and sexual violence.

We are looking for someone with some experience in research and evaluation who has a passion for communication and storytelling. You will enjoy exploring quantitative and qualitative data to pull out meaningful insights, building relationships with a range of internal and external partners, and using data and evidence to persuade others to prioritise prevention-focused approaches to addressing societal issues.

Key responsibilities

The main responsibilities of this role are:

• EnsuringTender’s projects implement Tender’s Theory of Change and evaluation processes, and ensure learnings from evaluations are used to improve Tender’s work
• Analysing Tender’s evaluation results and carrying out secondary research to produce reports and guidance on best practice approaches to preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence
• Using the findings from Tender’s evaluations and research to author and disseminate (on behalf of Tender and working in partnership with other organisations) recommendations for policy makers on preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence

We’re looking for a creative and passionate person to lead on our policy and communications work for this maternity cover. This role offers a great opportunity to play a key role in improving impact across the charity and the lives of those affected

The Migraine Trust is the only UK migraine charity providing information and support, campaigning for awareness and change, and funding and promoting research.

One in seven people in the UK live with migraine, and this complex and debilitating neurological disorder significantly affects their lives. We have been leading and bringing the migraine community together to change this since 1965.

Every year we support millions of people through our website and support services on all aspects of migraine and for help in managing it at work, in education, and in accessing healthcare. We campaign for increased awareness and understanding of migraine, and national policy change to improve the lives of people who get it. We have funded over 140 medical research projects and hold an international symposium every two years to bring together the world’s leading experts on migraine.

The role

People living with migraine are at the heart of our organisation, while our research highlights the urgent need to reduce the inequity we see for those living with the condition. You will ensure their voices are heard by decision makers and the public and get closer to our vison of ‘a world where migraine doesn’t stop anyone from living the life they want’.

You should be able to deliver high-impact communication campaigns, and have a real interest in policy. A skilled communicator yourself, you will be able to manage a broad role with the ability to build and nurture relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Overall, you’ll bring a desire to create positive change.

You’ll work closely with the CEO and be a key member of The Migraine Trust’s Senior Management team, leading our strategic direction on communications activity alongside targeted public and political campaigns.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the delivery of the organisation’s 2026 policy and communications plans and coordinate the development of plans and budgets for 2027
• Oversee development and delivery of the charity’s policy and public affairs strategy, ensuring a strong evidence base and meaningful involvement of people living with migraine
• Manage work our public affairs agency to deliver targeted influencing projects to improve migraine care, workplace support, and parliamentary engagement
• Shape policy recommendations and develop strategies to engage key stakeholders including parliamentarians, policymakers, clinicians, employers and partner organisations
• Monitor the external policy environment identifying risks, opportunities and emerging issues relevant to migraine
• Work with the team to develop and execute creative and impactful communications campaigns to raise the profile of the charity and tackle misunderstanding around migraine
• Ensure content across all channels – including media, digital, social and publications - is on brand and reflects our values and core messaging
• Ensure our online presence meets the needs of our stakeholders, and is fit-for-purpose for current and future organisational needs
• Oversee production of relevant reports, marketing materials and key publications working with freelance agencies and designers as required
• Work closely with Fundraising colleagues to identify and develop opportunities that support organisational growth
• Ensure all those living with migraine and their voices are central to our policy, campaigning and communications work
• Act as a spokesperson when necessary, representing the charity externally

The above is provided for guidance and is not an exhaustive list of all accountabilities that the post holder may have over time.

Knowledge and Experience

Essential

• A creative and experienced communications leader
• Wide experience working in the field of communications (in house or agency) and able to demonstrate knowledge of a broad range of communications activities
• Demonstrable experience of developing media strategies and managing media relations to achieve results
• Ability to deliver policy and public affairs strategies that create change
• A strategic thinker able to develop new ideas and turn these into action
• A strong leader and manager
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills and the ability to communicate, engage and build relationships with a wide range of audiences across the organisation and externally
• Calm under pressure with sound judgment
• Confidence to represent The Migraine Trust externally including public speaking as necessary
• Ability to manage a diverse workload and work under pressure.

Desirable

• Experience working within a health, disability, or long-term conditions context
• Experience of the voluntary sector and/or lived experience engagement
• Knowledge of digital transformation or digital communications best practice

The Migraine Trust is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably experienced persons regardless of their race, socioeconomic backgrounds, gender, disability status, ethnicity, religion/faith, sexual orientation, or age.

How to apply

For the full role description, and to apply, please visit our website. Interviews will be week commencing 5th January. If you would like an informal discussion to find out more about the role before submitting an application, or have any other queries, we encourage you to get in touch.

The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF’s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. 

Job role: Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary:  £42,000 – 45,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1. Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. 

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. 

Role Purpose

The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF’s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim-led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society.

The postholder will work closely with key stakeholders, including policymakers, government departments, funders, infrastructure bodies, and sector leaders, to address structural inequalities, unlock resources, and elevate the recognition of Muslim-led charities in British society. This role will involve both coalition-building and strategic campaigning to create lasting change within the sector.

Working in collaboration with MCF’s policy, communications, advocacy, and research teams, the Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will ensure a coordinated approach that drives long-term, sector-wide capacity improvement and sustainable impact.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Systemic Change

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy focused on driving systemic change that enhances the impact and sustainability of Muslim-led charities.
• Identify and dismantle structural, institutional, and policy barriers that hinder the growth and success of Muslim-led organisations.
• Lead efforts to address disparities in funding, representation, and support for Muslim-led charities, advocating for more equitable resource allocation.
• Champion inclusive policies that promote equity in representation and resource distribution for Muslim-led organisations across the charity sector.

External Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and maintain impactful relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, government officials, and sector leaders.
• Work with funders and mainstream sector partners to unlock resources and support for Muslim-led organisations, ensuring equitable access to funding and opportunities.
• Develop strategic alliances and coalitions with infrastructure and umbrella organisations across the charity sector to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and systemic change.
• Collaborate with civil society partners to advance inclusive policy frameworks and advocate for equitable funding practices.
• Position MCF as a key voice in coalition-building efforts and as a strategic campaigner on issues affecting the Muslim charitable sector.

Policy, Advocacy & Communications

• Collaborate closely with MCF’s policy, communications, and advocacy teams to design and implement integrated strategies for policy influence.
• Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy briefings, consultation responses, and advocacy campaigns aimed at driving systemic reform and addressing sectoral inequalities.
• Lead strategic campaigns that amplify MCF’s core messages and policy priorities to diverse audiences, including decision-makers and key influencers.
• Represent MCF at parliamentary, sectoral, and public events to advocate for policy change and elevate the profile of Muslim-led charities.

Research & Insight

• Work with MCF’s research team to generate insights and data that inform systemic change and strengthen advocacy efforts.
• Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for funders, policymakers, and other influential stakeholders.
• Use research to identify emerging trends and challenges within the Muslim charitable sector, developing proactive solutions to address these issues.

Collaboration & Representation

• Represent MCF externally with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the organisation’s values of inclusion, collaboration, and faith sensitivity.
• Act as a thought leader and advocate for Muslim-led charities in both public and private sector forums, driving change through advocacy and coalition-building.

Management

· Lead designated members of the team, overseeing work and line management where appropriate.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Significant experience (minimum 5 years) in driving systemic change within the charity, public, or civil society sectors.
• In-depth understanding of the UK charity landscape, particularly the challenges faced by minority or faith-based organisations.
• Proven track record of building and nurturing strategic partnerships with policymakers, funders, and senior stakeholders.
• Expertise in policy development, advocacy, and influencing key stakeholders to achieve long-term change.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to connect research, policy, and advocacy to drive meaningful outcomes.
• A commitment to MCF’s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and collaboration.

Desirable:

• Experience in coalition-building or cross-sector partnership development.
• Understanding of frameworks for systemic change (e.g., systems thinking, collective impact).
• Familiarity with the British Muslim charitable ecosystem and its role in social change.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks.
• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation.

Application Information:

To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. Please include two referees (one of whom should be a recent manager).
 
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. Reasonable adjustments are available on request throughout the recruitment process.

We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).

No agencies.

UK residents only.  Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.

The Paul Hamlyn Foundation (PHF) is one of the UK’s largest independent grant-making foundations. We use our resources to support social change, working towards a just and equitable society in which everyone, especially young people, can realise their full potential and lead fulfilling, creative lives.

Contract: Fixed-term contract – 18 months
Hours: Full-time post, 35 hours per week
Salary: c. £54,000 per annum
Location: London / Hybrid (40% of time in our central London offices)

Role Overview

We are seeking a mission-driven senior leader to shape and deliver our work supporting young people across the UK.

As Head of Programme – Young People, you will shape and drive the Foundation’s grant-making strategy in support of young people, ensuring our funding delivers systemic change and champions youth-led approaches. You will lead the Youth Fund and related initiatives, setting direction, overseeing grant-making, and influencing practice across the youth sector.

As Head of Programme – Young People, you will lead the strategic development, direction and delivery of the Foundation’s Youth Fund and related initiatives. You will oversee grant-making, champion youth-led practice, and influence sector-wide learning and collaboration.

Reporting to the Director of Grants, you will have direct responsibility for a high-performing team composed of two Grants Managers and one Grants Assistant. You will oversee the strategic development and delivery of the Youth Fund and Follow-on Fund, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s priorities and best practices in youth-focused grant-making.

You will work closely with funded organisations, trustees, advisors, and sector partners to strengthen their impact, embed learning, and ensure our funding supports long-term systemic change.

About You

We’re looking for a strategic, values-led leader with:

• Significant experience in the youth, charity or civil society sector, with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people.
• Deep knowledge of youth policy and practice, and the ability to translate that insight into impactful funding and support for organisations.
• Proven expertise in grant-making, including assessment, due diligence, monitoring and learning.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, able to develop and motivate teams and foster a collaborative, inclusive culture.
• A track record of working in partnership with funded organisations and sector stakeholders to drive meaningful change.