Role description
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Department: Senior Leadership Team
Reporting to: Board of Trustees
Salary: £70,000 - £75,000 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Contract type: Full time, permanent
Location: Home-based (frequent travel required), but close to either Birmingham, Liverpool, London or Manchester.
Role purpose
The CEO will lead LTSB in fulfilling its mission and achieving its strategic goals. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the dedicated LTSB team, the CEO will provide hands-on leadership across all operational, financial, and programmatic areas of the charity. This role requires a strategic, adaptable, and collaborative leader who understands the challenges faced by small charities and can balance growth ambitions with sustainability.
Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Organisational Development
Provide line management to the Senior Leadership Team, comprising the Deputy CEO, Director of Employment and Opportunities, Director of Income Generation, Director of Programmes, and Finance Director.
Oversee the implementation of LTSB’s 2023-2028 strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the charity’s mission and long-term goals, and lead the development of future strategies beyond this period.
Work closely with the Board to establish organisational priorities, goals, and policies, providing regular updates on progress, challenges, and achievements.
Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous improvement within the team, encouraging innovative approaches to achieve LTSB’s objectives.
Maintain a visible, hands-on presence within the organisation, supporting team members and actively engaging in LTSB’s work at all levels.
Financial and Governance Oversight
Oversee the financial management of LTSB, including budgeting, financial reporting, and cash flow management, ensuring sustainability and alignment with strategic goals.
Ensure effective governance practices are in place, working with the Board and Finance Director to maintain financial accountability and compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Present LTSB’s progress and performance at quarterly Board meetings, ensuring transparency and providing data-driven updates on strategic initiatives.
Support and oversee the effective functioning of Board subcommittees, ensuring they have the necessary information and resources to meet their objectives.
Secure and manage resources, including grant funding, donations, and partnerships, to ensure long-term financial health and sustainability.
Fundraising and Partnership Development
Lead LTSB’s fundraising strategy, developing relationships with funders, corporate partners, and donors to secure sustainable income streams.
Identify and develop partnerships that enhance programme delivery and support LTSB’s mission, including partnerships with corporations, educational institutions, and other charities.
Represent LTSB to external audiences, including funders, corporate partners, and government stakeholders, positioning the charity as a valued and impactful organisation in the social mobility sector.
Programme Management and Impact
Ensure the design, delivery, and evaluation of LTSB’s programmes meet the needs of young people and provide measurable, lasting impact.
Champion continuous improvement in programme delivery, adapting and refining our approach to maximise reach and effectiveness.
Work with the team to further establish metrics and impact measurement frameworks, using data to communicate LTSB’s successes and areas for improvement to the Board and external stakeholders.
Oversee the ongoing delivery and growth of our newly launched Schools Programme, ensuring its long-term success and sustainability. Collaborate with key stakeholders, including Local Authorities and Trusts & Foundations, to secure funding and strengthen partnerships that support its impact.
Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy
Act as the primary spokesperson for LTSB, advocating for social mobility and promoting the value of diverse talent within the workplace.
Engage with a range of stakeholders, including young people, families, employers, policymakers, and community organisations, to strengthen LTSB’s presence and influence.
Build and nurture relationships with the Board of Trustees, providing timely information to support effective governance and strategic decision-making.
Team Leadership and People Management
Manage, inspire, and support LTSB’s remote-based team, creating a positive working environment and fostering professional growth and development.
Oversee recruitment, retention, and staff well-being, ensuring LTSB attracts and retains passionate and skilled team members.
Promote a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture, empowering staff to contribute their expertise and work together to achieve LTSB’s mission.
Person specification
Experience and Knowledge
Proven experience in a senior leadership role within a charity or small to medium sized organisation, ideally in the social mobility, youth, or education sectors.
Demonstrated experience in financial management and oversight, with an understanding of charity governance and compliance requirements.
Track record of successful fundraising, partnership development, and income generation, ideally including grant funding and corporate partnerships.
Strong understanding of programme design, delivery, and impact measurement in a charitable setting.
Passion for social mobility, equality, and supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Skills and Abilities
Strong strategic planning and organisational skills, with the ability to translate vision into action.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and networking skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders.
Proven financial and budget management skills, with a sound understanding of charity financial practices.
Strong problem-solving skills and a solutions-focused mindset, with the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Inspirational and hands-on leader with the ability to engage, motivate, and support a dedicated team.
This job description is intended to summarise the main duties and responsibilities of the post and is not intended to be a full and exhaustive list of tasks. All LTSB staff members are expected to demonstrate flexibility and willingness to perform appropriate tasks when the need arises.
This role is predominantly home-based, with regular in-person meetings required. Ideally, candidates will be based near Birmingham, Liverpool, London, or Manchester to facilitate travel to meetings and events. Flexibility to travel nationally as needed is essential.
Benefits
35 days of annual leave, including bank holidays (pro-rated for part time staff)
3-day end of year shutdown (pro-rated for part time staff, discretionary)
Openness to flexible working
Workplace pension scheme (5% employee contribution, 4% after tax relief)
Employee Assistance Programme
Life Assurance Scheme
Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay (dependent on length of service)
Training and development opportunities
