Programme Networks Manager (The OWL Collaboration & OPEN)

We are seeking a passionate and organised Programme Networks Manager to lead two exciting national outdoor learning initiatives.

Position: Programme Networks Manager (The OWL Collaboration & OPEN)

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Salary: £31,000 – £34,000

Location: Quenington, Gloucestershire (Hybrid working considered)

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: Wednesday 27 August 2025, 11:59pm

Interview Dates: First stage – Thursday 4 September (online); Second stage – Friday 19 September (Quenington)

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to lead and grow two key programmes:

• The OWL Collaboration, a residential outdoor learning programme supporting children and young people facing the greatest challenges
• OPEN, the Outdoor Practitioners Education Network, a growing professional learning network for the Outdoor Learning sector

You’ll drive the design, delivery, and impact of both, ensuring they are visible, connected, and underpinned by strong partnerships and evaluation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing delivery of OWL programme and Nest School partnerships
• Coordinating grants, onboarding, logistics, evaluation, and reporting
• Leading and growing OPEN’s network of members and professional learning opportunities
• Delivering network events, newsletters, and collaborative communications
• Building strategic partnerships and representing the charity externally
• Embedding youth voice and championing outdoor education across the sector
• Managing data systems, budget tracking, and reporting to key stakeholders

About You

We’re looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and brings a combination of strategic thinking, practical delivery, and a passion for equity in education and the outdoors.

You will have:

• Experience managing programmes or professional networks, ideally in education or outdoor learning
• Strong relationship-building skills with schools, practitioners, and sector bodies
• Excellent communication skills – written, verbal, and facilitative
• Confidence managing budgets, data, grants, and logistics
• A proactive, organised, and adaptable approach
• A genuine belief in the power of outdoor learning and inclusive practice

About the Organisation

You will be working for an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading funders and providers of Outdoor Learning. Their mission is to improve life chances through nature-based education. They work in partnership with schools, funders, and outdoor centres across the country, underpinned by values that champion connection, innovation, and progressive stewardship of the natural world.

Why join

You will be part of a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive team committed to real impact. Benefits include:

• 10% employer pension contribution
• 27 days annual leave (plus public holidays and office closure over Christmas)
• Life assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to training and personal development budget
• Recently refurbished head office with a creative, flexible working environment

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Programme Manager, Education Network Manager, Outdoor Learning Coordinator, Learning & Engagement Manager, Community Partnerships Lead, Strategic Projects Manager, Youth Programmes Lead.

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