Deputy Director – Employment and Skills (Project Development)

UKundwork London; Liverpool City Region, Lancashire; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading social enterprise in the UK is seeking a Deputy Director – Employment and Skills to lead transformative projects across the North West. This role involves developing innovative employment and training programs, engaging with communities, and securing funding. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader ready to make a difference. The position offers a competitive salary and hybrid working options.

Benefits

Flexible working

Generous leave

Supportive culture

Qualifications

• Visionary leader passionate about employment and skills innovation.
• Experience in developing transformative projects.
• Ability to collaborate with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development of transformative projects.
• Lead high-impact bid development and secure sustainable income.
• Engage with diverse communities and represent Groundwork.

Skills

Leadership

Project Development

Bid Development

Community Engagement

Partnership Building

Job description

• Deputy Director – Employment and Skills (Project Development)

Salary: £43,874 – £48,451 per year
Full Time: 36.25 hours per week
Pattern of Work: Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm (includes 45 mins unpaid lunch break)
Based: Wigan Office – 74-80 Hallgate, Wigan, WN1 1HP (Hybrid working available)
Permanent Contract (Subject to funding and performance)

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for driving social impact through employment and skills innovation?

Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside is seeking a dynamic Deputy Director to spearhead the development of transformative projects across the North West. This is your chance to shape the future of personal development, employment support, and training initiatives — while unlocking new funding streams and forging powerful partnerships.

As a strategic force behind our Employment & Skills team, you’ll lead high-impact bid development, secure sustainable income, and mobilize projects that change lives. You’ll work alongside passionate teams, engage with diverse communities, and represent Groundwork at the highest levels of influence.

Why this role stands out:

• Lead regional growth in one of the UK’s most respected social enterprises
• Drive innovation in employment and training programmes
• Collaborate with VCFSEs, education providers, and local authorities
• Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive culture

This isn’t just a job — it’s a platform for purpose-driven leadership. If you’re ready to make a lasting difference, we’d like to hear from you.

Groundwork CLM is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk. This role is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check.

Apply Today

Join our passionate team, and together, let’s make a difference. Discover everything you need to know about this role in our recruitment pack — download it below.

Please download and complete the above Application Form in full and email it to [e-mail] or send by post to Groundwork, 74-80 Hallgate, Wigan, WN1 1HP by the closing date.

Closing date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025
Interviews: 5th / 7th November 2025

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