Location: Liverpool / Hybrid Working Available
Contract: Permanent
Make a meaningful difference in mental health
Compass is a small, values-led mental health charity.
We have been providing accessible counselling & psychotherapy, in the Mersey Region since 1978.
We are an approved and regulated provider of counselling training
We are committed to improving mental health and wellbeing, and ensuring people can access the support they need.
We are now seeking an inspiring Chief Executive Officer to lead our next chapter. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader who combines strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery and is passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives.
The Role
As CEO, you will provide overall leadership and management of the charity, working closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, funders, and community partners. You will be responsible for delivering our strategy, ensuring financial sustainability, and maintaining high-quality services that meet local need.
You will lead a small, committed team and maintain a strong, inclusive culture where people thrive.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide strategic leadership and vision for the charity
* Work with Trustees to develop and deliver organisational strategy
* Ensure sound financial management, budgeting, and long‑term sustainability
* Lead income generation through fundraising, grants, partnerships, and contracts
* Oversee safe, effective, and person‑centred service delivery
* Build relationships with stakeholders, commissioners, funders, and supporters
* Ensure compliance with charity law, governance, safeguarding, and regulation
* Lead, support, and develop staff and volunteers
* Represent the charity publicly and act as a passionate advocate for mental health
About You
You will have a diploma or degree in counselling or related field, who can lead with empathy, credibility, and compassion. You may already be a CEO, Director, Head of Service, or senior leader ready for your first chief executive role.
You will bring:
* Senior leadership experience in the charity, health, public, or related sector
* A track record of managing budgets and organisational resources
* Experience of income generation, fundraising, or securing contracts/grants
* Strong people leadership and team development skills
* Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities
* Understanding of governance and working with Boards/Trustees
* Commitment to equality, inclusion, and mental health advocacy
* Resilience, sound judgement, and a practical, hands‑on approach
Why Join Us?
* Opportunity to shape the future of a respected charity
* Meaningful work with visible community impact
* Supportive Board and dedicated team
* Flexible working arrangements
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you are interested in the role and how your experience matches the person specification to our Chair, Phil Shackell
phil.shackell@compass-counselling.org.uk
Informal enquiries and visits to the service are encouraged
Closing Date: 28th May 2026
Interviews: 2 weeks from closing date
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented communities, and those who share our commitment to inclusion.
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