Arun Community Transport (ACT) exists for one simple but powerful reason: without accessible transport, people become isolated. ACT has a crucial role in helping improve the lives of residents across 24 Towns and Parishes that make up the Arun District.
Since 2018, we have provided a vital network of volunteer drivers across 24 Towns and Parishes in the Arun District, from Ferring in the east to Selsey in the west and north to Arundel. We support elderly and less able residents to attend hospital and GP appointments, as well as social journeys such as shopping and hair appointments. For many of our passengers, our drivers are more than transport, they are a lifeline.
Transport exclusion affects older people, disabled residents, rural communities and those on lower incomes. Without reliable options, individuals can miss medical appointments, become socially isolated and lose independence.
We are now seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the next phase of our development.
We are looking for an entrepreneurial, dynamic and empathetic leader with a strong track record of delivery. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to shape the future of an organisation that makes a tangible difference every single day.
As CEO, you will provide the strategic leadership, operational oversight and commercial drive needed to ensure Arun Community Transport remains sustainable, impactful and responsive to community needs.
● Provide clear vision and direction, continuously developing and strengthening the organisation
● Generate income and secure funding to sustain and grow the charity
● Promote ACT's work and raise public awareness across the district
● Lead day-to-day operations while planning confidently for the future
● Build strong relationships with commissioners, partners, town and parish councils, funders and the wider community
● Act as the public face of the charity
● Work closely with the Board of Trustees
● Ensure strong governance, compliance and risk management
● Directly manage staff and volunteers, creating a supportive and high-performing culture
● Develop and implement a volunteer recruitment strategy
● Oversee quality, performance monitoring and reporting to funders and statutory bodies
This is a hands-on leadership role in a small but ambitious organisation. You will need to be both strategic and operational. This role will be for an initial a 12-month fixed terms period however there may be an option to extend subject to the successful application and granting of funding.
Under your leadership, ACT will:
● Strengthen and sustain its core service
● Develop new initiatives such as social and shopping trips
● Recruit and retain more volunteer staff
● Deepen partnerships across towns and parishes
● Secure funding for core costs, growth and vehicle maintenance
● Help more residents remain independent, connected and supported
You will be directly contributing to improved health, wellbeing and social inclusion across the Arun District.
We are looking for an entrepreneurial, dynamic and empathetic leader with a strong track record of delivery.
Essential experience and skills:
● Significant senior leadership experience within the voluntary sector or at a comparable level in the public or private sector
● Proven success in income generation and fundraising
● Strong contract management experience
● Experience preparing and managing budgets, grants and funding applications
● Excellent relationship-building, networking and communication skills
● Strong organisational and negotiation skills
● Experience developing digital media and communications
● Coaching and mentoring capability
● Ability to ensure robust governance and compliance
Desirable:
● Understanding of issues affecting vulnerable adults
● Knowledge of statutory reporting requirements (Charity Commission, Companies House)
● Familiarity with financial systems such as QuickBooks
● Awareness of data protection and safeguarding requirements
● Own transport (mileage allowance provided)
Above all, you will demonstrate genuine empathy for our beneficiaries and a commitment to improving health and wellbeing in our communities.
How to Apply
For further information and an informal conversation about this role, please contact Mrs Alex Palethorpe (Interim Chair) or Chris Fuller (General Manager) by email
Closing date: Sunday 22nd March 2026 (this may close earlier if sufficient applications received)
Interviews: April 2026, to be arranged at an appropriate time with applicants
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Expected hours: 18.5 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
Education:
* GCSE or equivalent (required)
Experience:
* Voluntary Sector: 3 years (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in West Sussex BN17 5JG