Deputy Director - Employment and Skills (Project Development)

Groundwork; Wigan; On-site; GBP 43,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading social enterprise in Wigan is seeking a dynamic Deputy Director to lead transformative employment and skills projects. You will drive innovation, secure funding, and represent the organization at influential levels. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership and project development skills, alongside a passion for social impact. Enjoy flexible working and a supportive culture. This role is full-time and offers a salary of £43,874 to £48,451 per year.

Benefits

25 days annual leave + 1 extra day for Christmas closure

8 public holidays

Flexible working arrangements

Enhanced employer pension contribution

Employee Assistance Programme

Ongoing training and development

Death in Service Benefit

Cycle to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Visionary leader with a passion for social impact.
• Experience in employment support and training initiatives.
• Ability to engage diverse communities and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of transformative employment projects.
• Secure funding and develop sustainable income streams.
• Represent Groundwork at influential levels.

Skills

Leadership

Project development

Community engagement

Bid development

Partnership building

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Deputy Director - Employment and Skills (Project Development)

CAPTION: Job details

• Posting date: 01 October 2025
• Salary: £43,874 to £48,451 per year
• Hours: Full time
• Closing date: 22 October 2025
• Location: Wigan, Greater Manchester
• Remote working: On-site only
• Company: Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire & Merseyside
• Job type: Permanent

Summary

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.

What We Offer

• 25 days annual leave + 1 extra day for Christmas closure
• 8 public holidays
• Flexible working arrangements
• Enhanced employer pension contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Ongoing training and development
• Death in Service Benefit
• Cycle to Work Scheme

How To Apply

For full details including full job description and person specification and information on how to apply for this role, please visit:

Alternatively, please contact us by calling 01942 821444.