This is a practical, hands-on leadership role at the heart of Richmond CVS s work with local charities and community groups. The postholder will lead our support to voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across the borough helping them to grow stronger and more sustainable.
The main focus of the role is to strengthen the fundraising skills and income generation of local organisations, alongside providing high-quality advice on governance, planning and strategy. The role requires curiosity, creativity and strong problem-solving skills to help organisations find practical solutions to real-world challenges.
Richmond CVS already works with a range of experienced consultants and trainers and has an established suite of training resources. The postholder is not expected to be an expert in every aspect of charity management. A key part of the role is to coordinate and facilitate this support, drawing on specialist expertise where needed, while providing direct advice particularly in relation to fundraising and the fundamentals of good governance.
Working with a small, passionate team, you will deliver support, facilitate learning and manage projects that make a real difference to grassroots groups.
Key Responsibilities
Organisational Support
Provide practical tailored advice and support to VCSE organisations on governance, fundraising, income generation, and strategic planning.
Help groups to identify funding opportunities and develop strong, realistic funding applications
Support organisations to become more sustainable and resilient
Develop clear resources, toolkits and guidance
Ensure all support is inclusive and accessible
Training & Events
Oversee and coordinate a high-quality programme of training and learning opportunities
Work with an established network of external trainers and consultants to deliver specialist training
Facilitate meetings, workshops and network events where appropriate
Develop new learning opportunities based on emerging needs
Maintain and develop existing Richmond CVS training materials and resources
Promote peer learning and collaboration across the sector
Project & Programme Management
Lead and manage capacity building projects from start to finish
Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to agreed outcomes
Monitor and evaluate impact and produce reports for funders
Oversee external consultants and specialist support ensuring quality and consistency
Identify opportunities for new funded projects
Leadership & Team Management
Lead and support a small, committed team
Coordinate workplans and priorities
Provide supervision, support and development for staff
Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
Build strong working relationships with Richmond Council, the NHS and other partners
Represent Richmond CVS at meetings and networks
Facilitate networking and collaboration across the VCSE sector
Encourage digital skills and innovation across the sector
Income Generation & Operations
Lead on income generation for capacity building work
Contribute to funding bids and proposals
Support budget planning and financial monitoring
Ensure compliance with organisational policies and procedures
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Criteria
Experience & Knowledge
Significant experience of working within the VCSE sector
Strong practical experience of fundraising and bid writing
Experience of helping organisations improve income generation and sustainability
Experience of managing or supervising staff or volunteers
Experience of developing, coordinating or facilitating training and learning opportunities
Good understanding of the principles of charity governance and good management practice
Confidence in using digital tools to support organisations
Skills & Abilities
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Strong problem-solving skills and a solutions-focused approach
Curiosity and a genuine interest in understanding organisational needs
Ability to build positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
Ability to recognise when specialist expertise is needed and work effectively with external trainers and consultants
Strong organisational and time management skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
Desirable Criteria
Knowledge of the Richmond upon Thames VCSE sector
Experience of working with local authorities or the NHS
Experience of grant assessment or management
Understanding of charity law
Experience of hybrid working environments and flexible team management
Relevant qualification in fundraising, charity or project management
Personal Qualities
Curious and keen to learn
Resourceful and solution-focused
Approachable and supportive
Passionate about the VCSE sector
Flexible and willing to get involved where needed