Chief Executive Officer
First Step Opportunity Group
Location: Hornchurch, London Borough of Havering (On-Site)
Registered Charity Number: 1106002
Post Salary: £57,402 - 67,575
Contract: Full time – 40 hours per week with some evening and weekend working, as reasonably necessary to perform their duties
Permanent Contract
Reporting to: Board of Trustees
Job Description
We are seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to guide First Step into its next chapter, following the announcement of the planned retirement of our current CEO after 11 years of dedicated service.
You join us at an exciting and transformative time. We are actively driving the organisation forward, focusing on long-term sustainability while ensuring we never lose sight of the families who rely on us. We are looking for a CEO who shares our values, inspires others and can lead with vision, compassion and determination.
This is a hands-on, outward-facing role, leading from the front, championing First Step’s profile within the community and igniting the interest of existing and potential supporters and donors. You will need to:
- Inspire, energise and direct the First Step team of staff and volunteers, to consistently deliver outstanding support for families of children with special needs and or disabilities
- Foster a positive and proactive culture that embodies excellence and compassion at every level
- Shape and communicate a strong strategy and vision, ensuring that every aspect of our work aligns seamlessly with First Step’s objectives and values
- Actively seek out and embrace new possibilities to expand and enhance services, driving innovation to ensure the organisation continues to make a meaningful difference to the community.
Key Information
Closing Date: Sunday 5th July 2026 at 23:30, although early application is advised as it could close earlier if we receive a high level of interest.
How to Apply:
If you are inspired to lead our remarkable team and guide First Step into its next
transformative chapter, we would love to hear from you.
Your Application should include:
- A fully completed Application Form including a Personal statement of up to 3 sides of A4, detailing how your experience, skills and values demonstrate your suitability for the CEO Role (A supplementary CV. can also be provided for additional information but not in place of a fully completed Application Form)
How To Apply:
The full job description and application form is on our website: www.firststep.org.uk/recruitment/jobs/
Please submit your formal application via email to
[email protected]
At First Step, safeguarding children and vulnerable adults is at the core of everything we do. Working closely with children, parents, staff, volunteers, and the wider community, we are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive. Our team is vigilant and proactive to identify and address any concerns, and to follow our robust procedures whenever there is a belief that a child or vulnerable adult may be at risk of harm.
We are equally passionate about championing equality and diversity in our employment practices and the services we provide. First Step embraces inclusion, celebrating the unique perspectives and talents that each individual brings to our organisation. We actively encourage people from all backgrounds – regardless of race, gender, disability, age, marital status, sexuality, religion, background, or personality – to play a key role in building vibrant, sustainable communities. Our commitment is rooted in recognising and valuing the strengths diversity brings to our team and our wider community.
Please note: You will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, ensuring we maintain the highest standards of safety and trust.
Pay: £57,402.00-£67,575.00 per year
Benefits:
Application question(s):
- Do you have the right to work in the UK?
Experience:
- leadership and strategic management: 3 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
