CEO

Charity People; Greater London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity organization is seeking a Chief Executive to lead the Future Youth Zone in Barking & Dagenham. You'll drive innovation and community impact, leading a team committed to empowering young people. Ideal candidates will have proven leadership in complex organisations and strong fundraising experience. This role offers a salary of £65,000 – £70,000 and significant benefits including 33 days of annual leave.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Gym access

Professional development via OnSide

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in complex organisations (charity, youth, community, or beyond).
• Strong fundraising experience across corporate, philanthropic, and public sectors.
• Operational and financial acumen including managing £1.5m+ budgets.

Responsibilities

• Lead a £1.5m+ organisation with a mission to empower young people.
• Drive financial sustainability, programme innovation, and strategic partnerships.
• Champion youth voice and inclusion.

Skills

Leadership in complex organisations

Fundraising experience

Operational and financial acumen

Experience with Boards

Passion for young people

Local knowledge

Job description

Lead the Future : Become the Chief Executive of Future Youth Zone, Barking & Dagenham

Location : Barking & Dagenham, East London

Salary : £65,000 – £70,000 (depending on experience)

Benefits : 33 days annual leave, gym access, professional development via OnSide

Application Deadline : 5pm Monday 30th June

Are you a bold, inclusive leader ready to shape the future for young people in one of London’s most dynamic boroughs?

Future Youth Zone is seeking a new Chief Executive to lead its next chapter. With a strong foundation in place and a passionate, values‑led team behind you, this is your opportunity to drive innovation, deepen community impact, and ensure every young person in Barking & Dagenham has the opportunity to thrive.

About the Role

As CEO, you will :

• Lead a £1.5m+ organisation with a mission to empower young people through opportunity and support.
• Be a visible, community‑facing leader – present in the Youth Zone and across the borough.
• Drive financial sustainability, programme innovation, and strategic partnerships.
• Champion youth voice and inclusion at every level of the organisation.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome candidates from all sectors who bring :

• Proven leadership in complex organisations (charity, youth, community, or beyond)
• Strong fundraising experience across corporate, philanthropic, and public sectors
• Operational and financial acumen (including managing £1.5m+ budgets)
• Experience working with Boards and multidisciplinary teams
• A deep passion for young people and community engagement
• Lived experience and local knowledge are highly valued. We especially encourage applications from women and racially diverse candidates under‑represented in charity leadership

What You’ll Lead

• A high‑energy, mission‑driven team committed to continuous improvement
• Strategic priorities including youth employment, mental health, and inclusion
• Expansion of our reach to underserved young people
• A refresh of our strategic plan beyond 2025

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a national movement through the OnSide Youth Zones network
• Shape the future of youth services in Barking & Dagenham
• Access to a supportive Board and national peer network
• Lead with purpose, visibility, and impact