Job Title
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Location
London (hybrid working considered)
Salary
£100,000 – £110,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Contract
Full-time, permanent
Reports to
Board of Trustees
Organisation Overview
Our client is a respected London-based professional membership organisation and registered charity, with an annual turnover of approximately £5m. They exist to advance professional standards, support our members, and deliver public benefit through advocacy, education, and thought leadership.
They are a small but influential organisation with a strong reputation in our sector, a committed membership base, and an engaged Board. They are now seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into its next phase of development.
Role Purpose
The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational performance of the organisation. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will ensure the organisation delivers against its charitable objectives, provides excellent value to members, and operates in a financially sustainable, well-governed, and values-led manner.
This is a hands-on leadership role, suited to someone comfortable leading a small team while also representing the organisation externally at a senior level.
Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership
* Lead the development and delivery of the organisation’s strategy, ensuring alignment with charitable objectives and member needs
* Provide clear, confident leadership to the staff team, fostering a positive, high-performing and inclusive culture
* Act as principal adviser to the Board, supporting effective governance and informed decision-making
Operational Management
* Oversee the day-to-day management of the organisation, ensuring efficient and effective operations
* Lead and develop the senior management team and wider staff, setting clear objectives and accountability
* Ensure policies, systems, and processes are fit for purpose and proportionate to the size of the organisation
Financial Stewardship
* Take overall responsibility for financial performance, budgeting, and long-term sustainability
* Work with the Finance function and Trustees to ensure robust financial controls, risk management, and reporting
* Identify and develop income opportunities, including membership growth, partnerships, and other revenue streams
Membership & Stakeholder Engagement
* Champion the needs and interests of members, ensuring a strong and compelling membership offer
* Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, partners, regulators, and funders
* Act as the public face of the organisation, representing it with credibility and authority
Governance & Compliance
* Ensure the organisation meets all legal, regulatory, and charitable obligations
* Support the Board and its committees, including preparation of papers, implementation of decisions, and reporting on performance and risk
* Uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability
Person SpecificationEssential Experience
* Proven senior leadership experience, ideally as a CEO, Director, or equivalent in a membership organisation, charity, professional body, or similar environment
* Experience leading and motivating small teams
* Strong financial acumen, with experience managing budgets and ensuring organisational sustainability
* Demonstrable experience working with a Board or Trustees
Skills & Attributes
* Strategic thinker with the ability to translate strategy into practical delivery
* Credible and confident communicator, able to engage a wide range of stakeholders
* Collaborative, inclusive leadership style with strong people management skills
* Commercially aware while strongly aligned with charitable values and purpose
* Comfortable balancing strategic leadership with hands-on operational involvement
Desirable
* Experience within a professional, regulatory, or membership-based organisation
* Understanding of charity governance and regulatory requirements
* Experience of advocacy, policy, or sector representation
Values
The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to the organisation’s mission and values, and to delivering public benefit through professionalism, integrity, and service to members.