Diversity Resource International (DRI) is a Sussex-based non‑profit community development organisation dedicated to empowering ethnic minorities and migrant communities. They deliver community development programmes, community‑led research, leadership and enterprise support, and training for equity and inclusion. Working in partnership with communities and stakeholders, they centre lived experience, generate evidence for change, and co‑create solutions that respond to real needs. Their approach is collaborative, reflective, and grounded in social justice.
Role Description
The Service Manager is a strategic leadership position responsible for translating DRI's organisational strategies and Theory of Change into impactful practice. This is a senior management position focused on leadership, accountability, and organisational sustainability.
The Service Manager ensures that DRI’s four core pillars are delivered effectively:
* Community Development and Health and Wellbeing
* Community‑Based Research
* Training, Education, Leadership and Enterprise
* Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership and Planning
* Strategic Implementation: Translate strategic goals and the Theory of Change into clear, deliverable actions and organisational outcomes.
* Operational Alignment: Plan and coordinate activities aligned with the five‑year strategic plan, ensuring services are delivered on time, within budget, and to quality standards.
* Director Liaison: Act as a key bridge to the board of Directors, providing regular briefings on organisational performance, financial position, and strategic risks.
* Sustainability: Support long‑term growth by aligning service delivery with emerging funding opportunities.
2. People and Performance Management
* Direct Management: Line manage project leaders and staff, including recruitment, supervision, appraisals, and professional development.
* Strategic Delegation: Appropriately delegate responsibilities to project leads holding them accountable for outcomes and reporting.
* Performance Culture: Set clear objectives, manage team wellbeing, and address underperformance/conduct issues in line with organisational policies.
3. Funding and Income Generation
* New Revenue: Act as a primary lead for securing new funding, identifying a pipeline of opportunities, and developing bids.
* Relationship Management: Build and maintain strategic partnerships with existing and new funders, stakeholders, and partners.
* Volunteer Development: Oversee the recruitment and development of volunteers to enhance DRI's operational capacity.
4. Impact, Monitoring and Evaluation
* System Design: Implement simple yet effective systems to track outputs, outcomes, and impact across all organisational pillars.
* Evidence‑Based Improvement: Use gathered data and learning to improve services and provide robust evidence for future funding applications.
* Complex Issue Resolution: Handle escalated complaints and complex service delivery issues professionally.
5. Operational Excellence and Technology
* Tech Integration: Lead the use of technology (CRM systems, digital tools, AI) to streamline operations and reduce manual administration.
* Compliance: Ensure all services comply with relevant legislation, internal policies, and quality standards.
* Resource Management: Manage service budgets to ensure value for money and effective resource allocation.
Qualifications
* Strategic Leadership - Proven experience in a management role where focus was on strategic outcomes.
* Financial Acumen - Experience in budget management, financial forecasting, and successful income generation (grants/contracts).
* Change Management - Ability to implement a "Theory of Change" and lead a team through organisational transitions.
* Digital Proficiency - Strong ability to use technology and AI tools to increase organisational efficiency and report on impact.
* Communication - Exceptional stakeholder management skills with the ability to represent DRI to external partners and funders.
Deadline to send CV and a Cover Letter to training@driorg.com is the 18 th May 2026.
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