Overview
Join to apply for the Head of Operations role at Upbeat Communities.
Post: Head of Operations (Maternity Cover)
RESPONSIBLE TO: Chief Executive
RESPONSIBLE FOR: Operations Staff & Contractors
HOURS: 30 hours per week (worked flexibly)
SALARY: £41,159 – 50,077 FTE (dependent on experience)
CONTRACT: 12 months
Deadline for applications: end of Tuesday 4th November 2025.
Responsibilities and duties
Leadership
* Provides strategic leadership across the organisation, working with the Chief Executive and trustees to embed the charity’s ethos and values.
* Leads on performance, quality assurance, risk management, and impact evaluation across programmes and social enterprises.
* Inspires and develops managers, providing coaching, supervision, and professional development.
* Champions wellbeing, fostering a culture of care and HR best practice across delivery teams.
* Active member of the senior leadership team, shaping organisational development, mentoring colleagues, and supporting board papers.
* Leads on continuous improvement of operational functions, embedding efficiency, compliance, and innovation across HR, IT, data, governance, and risk.
* Supports long-term strategy, budgeting, and business planning; mentors colleagues to strengthen effectiveness.
* Reviews contracts and service agreements to ensure value and alignment with priorities.
Business Management & Operations
* Provides leadership for organisational systems and processes, ensuring IT, data management, governance, health & safety, and premises are robust and effective.
* Oversees administration and internal operations, embedding policies and procedures for efficiency and compliance.
* Ensures premises provide safe, sustainable, fit-for-purpose environments for staff and volunteers.
* Champions environmental sustainability through policies and practices.
Human Resources
* Leads organisation-wide HR strategy; oversees recruitment, induction, and development to ensure fairness and compliance.
* Leads workforce planning and training to support growth and progression.
* Works with external HR advisors to ensure employment law compliance and best practice; embeds equality, diversity, and inclusion.
* Provides leadership for staff and contractors across operations with coaching, supervision, and regular appraisal.
Finance
* Works with Finance to ensure effective financial management and procurement processes.
* Oversees governance, GDPR compliance, and risk management frameworks.
* Provides timely information and analysis to enable governance and decision-making.
Networking & Partnerships
* Builds relationships with external advisors, contractors, and service providers; promotes best practice and resilience.
* Represents operations in wider networks and contributes to cross-organisational initiatives.
* Leads safeguarding culture across operations and oversees risk management and DBS/safeguarding compliance.
Person specification
Foundational Values
* Excels in emotional intelligence and mentoring.
* Embodies compassion and care; fosters a culture of impact.
* Drives learning, excellence, and empowerment.
Core Competencies
* Strong workload management and task prioritisation; calm under pressure.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office; supports others in its use.
* Knowledge of refugee and asylum seeker needs; supports wellbeing and empowerment.
* Adaptable in dynamic settings; leads through change; mentors others.
* Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and proactive leadership.
* Excellent interpersonal skills and ethical behaviour; champions inclusion.
* Experience in leadership, strategic planning, and risk management.
* Experience in stakeholder management and building professional relationships.
* Oversees IT strategy, data management, and governance; ensures robust security and reporting.
* Ensures operational governance across risk, health & safety, contracts, and charity law compliance.
* Provides strategic oversight of premises and facilities and ensures a safe, sustainable environment.
What we’ll offer you in return
We care about the wellbeing and everyday needs of our team. Here’s what you’ll have access to:
* Your birthday off – paid day off to celebrate.
* 33 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays, pro rata for part-time roles).
* Free virtual GP appointments – quick medical advice when needed.
* Employee Assistance Programme – confidential support.
* Childcare savings – salary sacrifice options via Mintago and Yellownest.
* Cycle to Work scheme – save money and stay active.
* Retail discounts – exclusive offers via Mintago.
* Financial wellbeing support – webinars, pension guidance, and adviser consultations via Mintago.
* Wellbeing support – wellbeing initiatives and resources.
* Training and development opportunities – courses, workshops, coaching.
Application deadline: end of Tuesday 4th November 2025.
Seniority level
* Executive
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Management and Manufacturing
* Non-profit Organizations
Note: This description has been refined for clarity and formatting while preserving the original content.
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