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- Tasks: Design and manage impactful funding programmes while amplifying young voices.
- Company: Dynamic Foundation focused on education and youth empowerment.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on continuous learning and improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of funding and storytelling in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme design and stakeholder engagement.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This role sits at the heart of what the Foundation does, responsible for both the strategic design of what we fund and the operational management of how we fund it. This is a rare role that combines both the strategic design of what we fund and the operational management of how we fund it, and the person joining will have the opportunity to shape what that looks like from the start. That makes the job more demanding and considerably more interesting.
You will need to be as comfortable designing coherent programmes across our three strands as you are managing the grant relationships that deliver them. Central to our grants approach is a commitment to storytelling - we embed funding for storytelling into every grant, amplifying the voices of the organisations we support and contributing to a louder, better heard conversation about FE and the young people within it.
The role carries significant breadth of stakeholder engagement, working closely with trustees, Santander, FE colleges, practitioners, sector partners and young people, with relationships built at different speeds and requiring different kinds of care.
This role is designed to work in a closed loop with the wider team as it is built out: evaluations, research and sector intelligence will feed directly into how programmes are shaped and refined over time, while insights from grantees and the field will inform what the Foundation commissions and learns from next. What we fund, what we learn and what we do next should always be in conversation with each other, and this role is the engine of that conversation.
Application Deadline: 5/20/2026
Location: London
Working from: Hybrid
How to apply: With the subject line ‘Head of Programmes Application’, please send the following to: applytosantanderukfoundation@gmail.com
- Your CV
- A covering letter (max 2 pages) or video/audio (max 5 minutes) telling us:
- Why this role interests you
- How your experience and skills relate to the Foundation and the strategy
- What you would bring to the Foundation
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Head of Programmes employer: ACF
Contact Detail:
ACF Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programmes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sector, especially those connected to the Foundation. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for storytelling! When you get the chance to speak with anyone from the Foundation, share your ideas on how storytelling can enhance their programmes. It’ll show you’re not just interested in the role, but also in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by thinking about the strategic design and operational management aspects of the role. Have examples ready that demonstrate your experience in both areas, as they’re key to what the Foundation is looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programmes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why this role excites you and how your experience aligns with our mission. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to see the real you!
Showcase Your Skills: When detailing your skills, be specific about how they relate to both the strategic design and operational management aspects of the role. We’re looking for clear examples that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Emphasise Storytelling: Since storytelling is central to our approach, don’t forget to highlight any relevant experiences you have in this area. Share how you’ve used storytelling to amplify voices or engage stakeholders in your previous roles.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow the application instructions carefully! Use the subject line ‘Head of Programmes Application’ and include all required documents. We want to see your attention to detail right from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at ACF
✨Know the Foundation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the Foundation's mission, values, and recent projects. Understanding their approach to funding and storytelling will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to design coherent programmes and manage grant relationships. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully balanced strategic design with operational management in previous roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about your past experiences working with diverse stakeholders. Be prepared to share specific instances where you built relationships and navigated different engagement speeds, as this role requires a nuanced approach to stakeholder management.
✨Emphasise Continuous Learning
Demonstrate your commitment to learning and adapting by discussing how you've used evaluations and feedback to refine programmes in the past. This shows that you understand the importance of a closed-loop system in programme development.