Shape the operational backbone that powers Act Build Change's social impact, developing systems and processes that enable our team to make positive change at scale.

About the role

This hands-on leadership role combines operational excellence with strong interpersonal skills. Reporting to the Director of Design and Technology, you'll manage a team of Project Managers whilst working closely with senior leadership to oversee project delivery, financial planning, organisational systems and growth.

You'll implement best practices for data management, risk management, and compliance in a collaborative way that supports our mission-driven work.

About us

Act Build Change is a transformative organising school that makes community organising and collective care methods accessible to everyone who wants to end injustice.

Since 2019, we've supported over 150 collectives and organisations across the UK and Ireland, working with those with disabilities, migrants and refugees, young people, carers, working class communities, LGBTQ+ collectives, those living in poverty and the intersections across those identities.

Our work includes delivering training and resources, supporting communities to navigate difference and change, and providing coaching for organisers and movement leaders.

Key responsibilities

Project management

Oversee project delivery across our organisation, ensuring quality and efficiency:

• Develop frameworks for project tracking and reporting.
• Manage and develop a team of project managers, providing resources and support.
• Monitor budgets and timelines across internal and external projects.

Financial management

Ensure financial sustainability and responsible resource management:

• Support financial planning and reporting with our board and senior leadership team.
• Oversee invoices, expenses and budget adherence.
• Assess financial risks and manage potential challenges.

Systems and processes

Build and maintain operational infrastructure that enables our effectiveness:

• Develop strategies, policies and procedures with our senior leadership team.
• Maintain and oversee our systems for efficient project tracking.
• Ensure agreed standards are met across our team and resolve operational issues.

Organisational growth

Drive strategic growth and development:

• Develop business strategies for growth across products, services and recruitment.
• Analyse our data to support strategic goals and tracking.
• Support our recruitment efforts and staff policy development.

What we’re looking for

Essential experience and skills:

• Proven operations leadership experience, including managing teams and complex projects.
• Strong project management and delivery track record across multiple initiatives.
• Financial management expertise including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation.
• Experience with recruitment, performance management, and policy development.
• Experience with data management, reporting, and operational systems.
• Comfortable learning and adopting new technologies and processes quickly.
• Excellent communication skills, including ability to navigate difficult conversations professionally.
• High attention to detail and meticulous approach to operational standards.
• Ability to work remotely and manage diverse responsibilities with autonomy.

What we’d love to see:

• Experience across different organisation types and sizes.
• Flexibility to work with different methodologies and systems.
• Risk management and compliance background.
• Comfortable representing the organisation to external stakeholders.
• Track record of implementing operational improvements and efficiencies.

Personal qualities:

• You approach challenges with patience and understanding, able to communicate directly when needed whilst maintaining positive relationships.
• You're confident in your expertise but remain open to different perspectives and collaborative problem-solving.
• You take personal accountability seriously and help build a culture where others take ownership of their work.
• You enjoy working in a collaborative team environment and building positive relationships across the organisation.
• You're aligned with our mission and values and are motivated by creating positive social change.

What we offer

Salary and benefits:

• £49,500 - £62,000 salary, depending on experience.
• Permanent contract with option for 4 or 5 days per week (salary and benefits will be pro-rated).
• Over 30 days of leave, including 25 days of annual leave, one day off for your birthday, one week off in August for learning and rest, plus Christmas close.
• Pension scheme and enhanced parental leave and sick pay.

Working arrangements:

• Fully remote working (must be within 4 hours of central London).
• Access to office space in London when needed.
• Co-working space expenses available for those based outside London.
• Occasional travel to London may be required (up to twice a month), with expenses covered.
• Team away days around the UK (up to four times a year), with expenses covered.
• Full equipment and tech support provided.

Growth and impact:

• Direct contribution to building people's power and making positive social change.
• Collaborative, mission-driven work environment with impact across the UK.
• Professional development opportunities including training and events (assessed on an individual basis).
• Clear growth pathway in an expanding team.

How to apply

Please note: this role is for UK-based candidates who have the right to work in the UK.

What to send:

• Your CV (max. two pages).
• A supporting statement answering the questions below (max. two pages).
• Both documents as PDFs attached to your email.

Questions to address:

• Describe a time you led operational improvements in a complex organisation. What was your approach and what were the results?
• How would you approach building operational systems for an organisation that values collaboration and accessibility?
• What attracts you to this role at Act Build Change specifically?

Next steps:

• Submit your application by Fri 11 Jul 2025.
• First round interviews will begin from the week of 28 Jul 2025.
• The role will start from Oct/Nov 2025.

We are a neurodiverse and intersectional team. We’re committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone of all backgrounds. If there is anything you need us to do to support you in the application process please let us know as soon as possible.