Charity Business Manager
Releasing Potential is a values-driven charity dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people through innovative education, alternative provision, and community-based programmes. We believe every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we're looking for an experienced Charity Business Manager to help us achieve that vision.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a key leadership role within a growing organisation, combining strategic thinking with hands-on operational management. You'll work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to strengthen our financial sustainability, improve operational performance, develop new opportunities, and ensure we continue delivering high-quality services that make a lasting difference.
The Role
As Charity Business Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across the organisation, ensuring our systems, finances, governance, and partnerships support the effective delivery of our education and alternative provision services.
You'll oversee financial planning, support business development, strengthen governance and compliance, and help create an environment where our people and programmes can flourish.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Operations
- Support the development and delivery of the organisation's strategic plan.
- Oversee operational systems and processes to ensure effective service delivery.
- Identify opportunities for organisational growth, service development, and partnership working.
- Monitor organisational performance and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
Financial Management
- Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning across multiple programmes and funding streams.
- Ensure compliance with charity finance regulations and funder requirements.
- Produce financial and operational reports for the Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees.
- Work with external accountants and auditors.
- Oversee statutory submissions, including Charity Commission and Companies House requirements.
- Drive financial sustainability through effective cost management and income optimisation.
Business Development & Partnerships
- Support the development of new income streams, including grants, commissioned services, and contracts.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, local authorities, funders, and other partners.
- Lead or contribute to funding bids, grant applications, and tender submissions.
People & Culture
- Support, motivate, and develop staff.
- Promote a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture.
- Contribute to workforce planning and organisational resilience.
Governance, Compliance & Safeguarding
- Ensure compliance with Charity Commission regulations and organisational policies.
- Support governance processes and reporting to the CEO and Board of Trustees.
- Maintain effective organisational risk management.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental legislation.
- Champion safeguarding and promote the welfare of children and young people at all times.
Sustainability
- Promote environmentally responsible working practices.
- Support initiatives to reduce waste and improve energy efficiency across the organisation.
About You
We're looking for an experienced and proactive leader who enjoys balancing strategic planning with operational delivery. You'll be comfortable working across multiple priorities, building strong relationships, and helping an ambitious charity continue to grow its impact.
- Significant experience in business, operations, or senior management.
- Experience within the charity, education, alternative provision, or not-for-profit sectors.
- Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
- Experience working with public sector partners and multiple stakeholders.
- A successful track record of developing funding bids, tenders, or grant applications.
- Knowledge of safeguarding, governance, and regulatory frameworks within education or charity settings.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
- A collaborative leadership style and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Qualifications
We welcome applicants who have:
- An ILM Level 5 qualification (or equivalent) in leadership and management, or significant professional experience at this level.
- Evidence of continuing professional development in leadership, management, finance, or related disciplines.
Why Join Us?
At Releasing Potential, you'll be joining a passionate team committed to creating positive change for children and young people. You'll have the opportunity to influence the future direction of the charity while working in a supportive environment that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
If you're an experienced leader who combines commercial awareness with a strong commitment to social impact, we'd love to hear from you.
Benefits
- Opportunity to support life-changing work with young people
- Varied and hands-on role combining office, site, and outdoor work
- Supportive and mission-driven team
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
- Generous pension scheme
- Access to staff support
- Investment in relevant training
Safeguarding
Releasing Potential is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to appropriate safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Pay: £36,177.00-£40,701.00 per year
Work Location: In person
