Job Introduction
About YMCA St Paul’s Group:
YMCA St Paul’s Group is the largest YMCA in Europe and a leading provider of supported housing, youth and community services. The Youth Project is a registered charity and subsidiary of YMCA St Paul’s Group, delivering innovative youth services and programmes that support young people.
Together, we create inclusive places where young people, families and communities can be safe, healthy, connected and confident. Our work empowers individuals to develop their potential, strengthen their wellbeing and make positive contributions to their communities.
By joining us, you will become an important part of a supportive and values-driven organisation that is committed to making a lasting difference. We offer learning and development opportunities.
Being part of YMCA St Paul’s Group means not only working for a great London-based charity that has supported young people and communities for over 150 years, but also being part of a national association and global movement.
We are one of the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces™ 2026 and have also been recognised as one of the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces for Development™ 2026.
About the Role:
Lead youth work that changes lives!
YMCA St Paul’s Youth Project is looking for an ambitious, values-led Youth Work Development Manager to lead, grow and energise youth services for young people aged 11–25.
This is a brilliant opportunity for an experienced youth work leader who can bring people together, turn ideas into action, and build safe, inclusive and high-impact services for young people, especially those facing disadvantage.
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Lead YMCA St Paul’s Youth Project services across multiple sites.
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Develop new youth services and funded projects from idea to delivery.
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Support, coach and motivate staff and volunteers.
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Manage budgets, performance, quality and impact reporting.
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Build strong partnerships with funders, local agencies and communities.
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Ensure a high level of quality and impact whilst adhering to budgetary limitations and business processes.
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Keep safeguarding, inclusion and young people's wellbeing at the centre of everything we do.
About You
We are looking for a passionate, organised, and aspirational leader, who is looking to enhance, sustain and develop what we offer to young people living in London.
You must have at least 3 years’ experience managing youth services across multiple sites. You will also hold a minimum level 3 qualification in youth-related studies.
You will also have a proven track record of setting up and delivering funded projects from beginning to end ensuring the best outcomes are achieved for young people.
This is a crucial role within the Youth team and is ideal for people who are looking to develop their career in the sector. We are looking for an inspirational and dedicated individual who has a genuine desire to transform lives.
What we offer:
At YMCA St Paul's Group, we prioritise improving diversity and inclusion in the workplace and our services. We value your authenticity and unique voice and encourage you to share your opinions. You will have the opportunity to be a catalyst for change by actively participating in our Employee Resource Groups.
You can learn, grow, and reach your full potential as a team member. We are committed to your development and will support your personal growth journey. Our comprehensive learning and development programme includes training, qualifications, and on-the-job experience, ensuring that you have the skills necessary for your role while offering continuous development and advancement opportunities.
In addition, you will have access to a range of benefits which will support you in mind, body, and spirit, which include:
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Free gym access across our sites.
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Discounts from major retailers and supermarkets.
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Free access to well-being and counselling services.
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The ability to work from a range of outer London work locations.
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Career development programmes to help you thrive.
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Family-friendly policies to help you balance work-life, including enhanced maternity pay.
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Life Assurance (permanent contracts only).
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For a complete list of our staff benefits, please click here.
Please note:
We are unable to provide visa sponsorship and can only accept applications from individuals who already have the right to work in the UK.
As this role involves working with vulnerable members of society including regulated activity, a Basic, Standard or Enhanced Criminal Disclosure will be required following a conditional offer. We are making people aware of this because with Enhanced disclosures, spent convictions may appear. However, if you were appointed, we will consider all circumstances before making a final decision.
Previous applications: If you have applied for a similar role within the last six months and were unsuccessful, we encourage you to consider whether your experience has developed further before reapplying.
Accessibility & adjustments: We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Please let us know in advance if you require any support to participate fully.
At YMCA St Paul’s Group, we actively promote equality of opportunity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, communities, and industries, and value the diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives that make our workforce stronger.
The successful candidate will be expected to uphold and work in accordance with the Christian ethos and values of the YMCA.
Interview dates: 16th and 17th of September
