Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Root Connections CIC; Radstock; On-site; GBP 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A non-profit organization in the UK is seeking a passionate Chief Executive Officer to lead its mission to end rural homelessness. The role involves strategic leadership, operational oversight, and development of community partnerships. Candidates should have experience in the charity sector and a strong commitment to social justice. This is a permanent role with a salary of £40,000 pro rata, part-time hours, and opportunities for personal growth.

Benefits

Pension

Flexible part-time hours

28 days pro rata holiday

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading organisations within charity or social enterprise.
• Ability to translate strategic ideas into actionable plans.
• Experience managing budgets and grant-funded projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development in collaboration with the Board.
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
• Oversee delivery of funded projects and manage risks.

Skills

Leadership in charity sector

Strategic thinking

Team management

Strong communication

Financial literacy

Education

Senior leadership experience in charity or social enterprise sector

Job description

Root Connections is entering an exciting new chapter of growth, thanks to funding from the Big Lottery. We’re on a mission to end rural homelessness and build stronger, more connected communities — and we’re looking for passionate, purpose-driven people to help shape our future.

We are now looking for a visionary and values-ledChief Executive Officerto lead us through this exciting next phase. This is a unique opportunity for someone who thrives on building relationships, inspiring teams, and driving sustainable impact. You’ll be at the forefront of developing our strategic direction, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring our mission stays at the heart of everything we do.

If you’re a natural leader who believes in social justice, connection, and community, we want to hear from you.

For more information go to – Vacancies at Root Connections

www.rootconnections.co.uk

Job Title: CEO

Contract: Permanent – 30hrs per week
Reference:CEO-01
Salary:£40,000 pro rata
Location:Root Connections CIC, Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Somerset, BA3 4QF
Reports to:Lead Director and Board of Directors

Chief Executive Officer

Lead Root Connections into its Next Chapter

Root Connections CIC is entering a bold new phase of growth — and we’re looking for an exceptional, values-ledChief Executive Officerto lead us forward.

We’re a not-for-profit Community Interest Company on a mission to end rural homelessness and improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable adults. Based on a working organic farm and garden at Dairy House (a direct access homeless hostel), our social enterprise uses veg boxes, cut flowers and community engagement to create meaningful change. Every element of our work — from therapeutic horticulture to accredited training and community building — is designed to help people move from surviving to thriving.

With fresh Big Lottery funding and a committed team, this is an exciting time to join Root Connections. We’re not just sustaining what we’ve built — we’re developing new projects, partnerships and potential. The CEO will play a central role in shaping this future, providing the strategic direction and operational leadership needed to grow our impact, strengthen our foundations, and champion our mission.

Purpose of the Role

To provide visionary leadership and robust operational oversight to Root Connections, ensuring that we deliver our mission with integrity, sustainability, and innovation. You’ll steer strategic development, build strong internal and external relationships, and lead a passionate team working to create lasting social change.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Organisational Leadership

• Lead on the development and delivery of Root Connections’ long-term strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Ensure the day-to-day operations run smoothly, efficiently, and in line with our values.
• Embed a culture of learning, reflection, and continuous improvement across the organisation.
• Provide timely insights, recommendations and reporting to the Board and funders.

Team Leadership & People Development

• Line manage the Head Gardener, Administrator, Marketing and Fundraising Lead, and Community Hub Coordinator.
• Foster a positive, collaborative team culture that encourages growth, creativity and accountability.
• Support the wellbeing, professional development and supervision of staff and volunteers.

Project & Grant Management

• Oversee the delivery and evaluation of funded projects, including The Hub, in line with grant requirements.
• Monitor progress and manage risks across all active services.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting to funders, working closely with staff and delivery partners.

Financial Oversight

• Work with the Board to plan and manage budgets aligned with strategic goals.
• Ensure financial processes are transparent, well-governed and meet CIC responsibilities.
• Explore income-generating opportunities, partnerships and business model sustainability.

Governance, Compliance & Safeguarding

• Maintain robust governance, risk management, and safeguarding procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal, ethical, and regulatory standards.
• Uphold the mission and values of Root Connections across all activity.

External Relations & Representation

• Act as a compelling ambassador for Root Connections with funders, partners, networks and the wider community.
• Build and maintain strong relationships that support collaboration, funding and influence.
• Represent the organisation in public, media, and stakeholder settings with credibility and integrity.

Person Specification

Essential

• Proven senior leadership experience in the charity, CIC, or social enterprise sector.
• Strategic thinker with experience turning ideas into deliverable action.
• Strong people manager with experience leading small, cross-functional teams.
• Skilled communicator with the ability to build trust across a range of stakeholders.
• Experience managing grant-funded projects and reporting against targets and KPIs.
• Good financial literacy and experience managing organisational budgets.
• Deep understanding of the challenges facing vulnerable adults, particularly around homelessness, mental health, and social exclusion.

Desirable

• Knowledge of therapeutic horticulture, food sustainability or social enterprise models.
• Familiarity with CIC governance and Board relations.
• Experience scaling a grassroots organisation or managing growth.
• Passion for systemic change in homelessness prevention, inclusion, and wellbeing.

Additional Information

• This is a fixed-term, part-time position (21 hours per week) with flexible working considered.
• Some evening or weekend work may be required for events and community engagement.
• Enhanced DBS check will be required prior to appointment.

What We Offer

• A warm and welcoming work environment rooted in purpose
• Pension
• Flexible, part-time working hours to suit work-life balance
• Opportunities for personal growth and training
• A chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives
• 28 days pro rata + an additional discretionary Christmas week off.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your application form to [e-mail]

Deadline for applications: 21th August
Interviews will be held from the 29th August

C1EO