Safe and Sound is a well-established Derby-based charity supporting vulnerable children and young people affected by exploitation and risk across the city and county. For over two decades, we have worked to prevent, support and help rebuild lives to a point where we are no longer needed, no matter how long that takes. We do this work by working in engaging local communities to deliver education, intervention and recovery services that change lives.
Safe and Sound has built strong foundations over recent years, with a stable financial position, strengthened governance and a committed team delivering meaningful outcomes for vulnerable young people across Derby. Following a period of development and investment, the organisation is now entering a phase of consolidation, focused on sustaining impact and ensuring long‑term resilience.
About the role
We are seeking a Chief Executive who can lead Safe and Sound through its next phase with confidence, creativity and purpose.
This is a broad and visible leadership role, combining strategic oversight with hands‑on engagement. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will take overall responsibility for the organisation’s leadership, performance and long‑term sustainability.
You will ensure the continued delivery of high‑quality, outcomes‑focused services that make a meaningful difference to children, young people and families. At the same time, you will lead on income generation, developing sustainable funding streams and building strong relationships with key funders, partners and supporters to secure the charity’s future.
As Chief Executive, you will act as the public face of Safe and Sound, representing the organisation across Derby and Derbyshire’s business, public and voluntary sectors. Building strong local relationships and networks will be central to strengthening the charity’s profile, influence and impact.
Internally, you will lead and support a committed staff team, fostering a positive, inclusive and high‑performing culture where people feel valued, supported and empowered to deliver their best work.
We are proud of the culture we have built. Recent staff survey results highlight a highly engaged and supported team, with 100% of staff saying they are proud to work for Safe and Sound and strong scores across trust in leadership, wellbeing and inclusion.
You will also ensure the organisation remains responsive and resilient in a changing environment, maintaining strong oversight of risk, safeguarding and governance, while adapting to the evolving challenges facing young people.
The voices of young people and parents are important to us and drive change for partner organisations and us. This is a role that requires both strategic thinking and visible leadership, offering the opportunity to shape the future of a well‑established charity and deliver lasting impact across Derby.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for a values‑led leader who can combine strong operational leadership with a confident and credible external presence.
You may already be a chief executive or a senior leader ready to step into your first CEO role. What matters most is your ability to lead with purpose, build trust and deliver impact in a complex, people‑focused environment.
We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:
* The ability to lead and inspire teams, creating a positive, high‑performing and supportive culture.
* Experience in securing income and developing sustainable funding models.
* Strong relationship‑building skills, with the confidence to represent an organisation publicly and act as an effective ambassador.
* A sound understanding of governance, safeguarding, financial management and organisational risk.
Alongside this, you will bring resilience, emotional intelligence and a collaborative leadership style, with the ability to navigate challenge and support others through change.
A strong connection to Derbyshire, or the ability to quickly build credibility and networks locally, will be important. This is not a remote role; the successful candidate will need to be visible, present and embedded within the community.
Applications close at 9 a.m. on Friday, 22nd May. Please visit our website for more details.
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