Chief Officer

Citizens Advice; Woking; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A local advice service organization in Woking is seeking a Chief Officer to lead the management and operations. The role involves representing the organization to stakeholders, ensuring high-quality service delivery, and managing funding and financial planning. The Chief Officer will collaborate with community funders and oversee external relationships while supporting staff and volunteers during transitions. Applications close on January 26, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable leadership and management experience.
• Ability to manage external relationships effectively.
• Experience in financial planning and management.

Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with funders and the Woking community.
• Collaborate with other Chief Officers to adapt to funding changes.
• Secure alternative premises and manage transitions smoothly.
• Support staff and volunteers during periods of disruption.

Job description

Reporting to the Chair of the Trustee Board, the Chief Officer is responsible to the Trustee Board for the management and leadership of Citizens Advice Woking.

Represents Citizens Advice Woking to funders, partners and stakeholders.

Ensures the delivery of a high quality, impartial and confidential service, utilising both paid staff and volunteers.

Is responsible for the continuing funding, planning and financial management of the service.

Represents the organisation in Woking and contributes to the overall provision of strategic advice services in the borough.

In particular, the priorities for the Chief Officer in 2026/27 will be to:

• Manage CAW’s external relationships with our funders and the Woking community generally, to ensure satisfaction with the delivery of current projects, and their continuation,
• Collaborate closely with the other Surrey LCA Chief Officers to respond to the changing funding landscape. In parallel, continue to identify and deliver local projects for local funders,
• Ensure that suitable alternative premises are secured, and the transition is managed as smoothly as possible,
• Ensure the staff and volunteers are enabled to work effectively, particularly during this period of disruption,

The Chief Officer has an important leadership role, working closely with the Operations Manager, who has line responsibility for the staff and, generally, the internal CAW operation. The volunteers are managing on a day-to-day basis by the Advice Session Supervisors, who are critical to ensuring the quality of advice to clients, and the smooth running of the office.

How to apply

To apply for the role of Chief Officer at CAW, please see the Job Pack, available on our website.

You will need to send us your CV and a maximum 2 page supporting statement. The supporting statement should demonstrate how you meet the criteria outlined in the person specification and outline why you are interested in becoming the CO of Citizens Advice Woking.

Closing date for applications: Monday 26th January 2026 at 5.30pm

Applications will be reviewed on receipt, and we reserve the right to close earlier if applications from sufficient suitably qualified candidates have been received.