Job Description
Chief Executive Officer ADHD Foundation Liverpool
Location: Liverpool (Hybrid working available)
Salary: £65,000–£70,000 per annum
Contract: Full-time
Are you an inspiring leader with strong governance and financial skills, ready to influence at a national level the Neurodiversity agenda?
The ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity is seeking a strategic, emotionally intelligent CEO to lead us into our next phase of growth. Following a period of change, we're looking for someone who can stabilise and strengthen our team, champion neurodiversity, and ensure our long-term sustainability.
You’ll bring proven experience of senior leadership—ideally in the charity or public sector—a solid understanding of governance, financial oversight, and a passion for transforming lives. This is a unique opportunity to shape national discourse on ADHD and neurodiversity, influence policy, and lead innovative programmes with measurable impact.
Join us to lead one of the UK’s most dynamic and influential neurodiversity charities.
Closing date: 08/07/2025
Please forward your CV and covering letter to lesley@privilegehr.co.uk
For a full recruitment pack email lesley@privilegehr.co.uk
Chief Executive Officer
Responsible to: Board of Trustees
Hours: Full Time with flexibility to meet the demands of the role
Salary: £65,000–£70,000 per annum, based on experience and qualifications
Office location: 54 St James Street, Liverpool
Key Role & Purpose
The CEO will provide strategic, financial, and operational leadership for the ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity, guiding its mission to transform lives through greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. This role demands a proven leader with extensive senior management experience, ideally within the charity or nonprofit sector, and a strong grasp of governance, organisational development, and financial stewardship. Following a period of internal change, the CEO will play a critical role in rebuilding stability, nurturing a cohesive team culture, and ensuring robust, accountable governance.
The successful candidate will also be responsible for shaping and executing the Foundation’s strategy, strengthening financial sustainability, and increasing the organisation’s national influence and impact.
Strategic Leadership & External Focus
* Lead the organisation with a clear vision aligned to long-term strategic goals and values.
* Stabilise the team to create a positive, supportive working culture.
* Act as the national voice for ADHD and neurodiversity through media, policy, and parliamentary channels.
* Cultivate strong partnerships with key stakeholders including government, education, healthcare, and private sectors.
* Ensure the Foundation’s positioning as a thought leader in neurodiversity innovation and policy.
Financial Sustainability & Governance
* Ensure effective governance structures and regulatory compliance, working closely with the Board of Trustees to uphold best practice.
* Provide clear, accurate financial oversight, including budget management, forecasting, risk mitigation, and reporting.
* Drive financial sustainability through diversified income streams including grants, commercial activity, and philanthropy.
* Develop and implement innovative funding models to support long-term growth.
* Ensure full transparency and accountability in financial operations and organisational reporting.
Leadership & Organisational Culture
* Lead and stabilise the senior leadership team, ensuring clarity of roles and strong internal communication.
* Foster a values-led, inclusive culture that supports neurodivergent staff and reflects the mission of the Foundation.
* Prioritise team wellbeing and development, embedding professional development and succession planning.
* Champion the Foundation's strength-based, person-centred approach to neurodiversity both internally and externally.
Operational Oversight
* Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure quality, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.
* Implement effective systems, policies and key performance indicators aligned to the strategic plan.
* Monitor organisational risk and ensure mitigation strategies are in place.
* Uphold service delivery standards and maintain a focus on measurable impact.
Brand, Innovation & Impact
* Amplify the Foundation’s national profile through thought leadership, media engagement, and partnerships.
* Oversee the continued development of flagship programmes including the Neurodiversity Umbrella Project.
* Promote innovation in service design and advocacy, ensuring measurable, mission-driven impact.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Proven experience in CEO or equivalent senior leadership role, ideally in a charitable or nonprofit context.
* Strong governance experience with a solid understanding of regulatory requirements and board engagement.
* Demonstrated financial acumen including budget management, financial planning, and strategic oversight.
* Track record of stabilising and leading teams through change with emotional intelligence and resilience.
* Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills at a national level.
* Deep commitment to equity, inclusion and the values underpinning neurodiversity advocacy.
* Strong understanding of strategic planning and operational execution in complex organisations.
Desirable:
* Lived or professional experience relating to neurodiversity, ADHD or allied sectors (health, education, social care).
* Experience influencing policy and working with government or parliamentary groups.
* Advanced degree or professional qualification in leadership, finance, management or a related field.