At a Glance
- Tasks: Build trusted relationships and support community wealth building in York.
- Company: Joseph Rowntree Foundation, a key player in social justice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on long-term, meaningful change.
- Why this job: Be part of transformative change in your community and tackle inequality.
- Qualifications: Experience in civic, community, or policy work with a passion for justice.
The predicted salary is between 57000 - 57000 £ per year.
York is a city of contrasts: heritage and change, wealth and inequality, influence and marginalisation. This role asks what it means for JRF, in its home city, to live up to its founding memorandum today. This is relational, outward‑facing work that keeps asking “what would Joseph do?” of today’s challenges such as extreme wealth inequality, precarity and the climate emergency.
You will work alongside communities, civic partners and institutions to build trusted relationships, develop new approaches and contribute to change that is rooted, collective and built to last. As York Civic Partnerships Lead, you will deepen JRF’s role as an anchor institution, helping ensure that the resources we steward are used in service of our mission and of the city. You will be part of JRF’s Regional Programme within Emerging Futures, a long‑term, place‑based initiative backing people, organisations and coalitions who are building alternatives to extractive and exclusionary systems in the North East and York.
What you will do:
- Building trusted relationships with civic partners, community organisations, and local stakeholders
- Supporting community wealth building across the city, including work with the York and North Yorkshire Mayoral Commission
- Leading a flagship collaboration with the University of York and community partners to reimagine Seebohm Rowntree’s poverty mapping 125 years on
- Convening people and ideas that strengthen York’s ecosystem for just and regenerative change
- Contributing to shared learning, research, and programme development across the regional team
- Evolving JRF’s anchor practice in York so that our assets and influence are clearly in service of our mission
About you:
You work relationally and think systemically. You are comfortable with uncertainty, able to hold multiple perspectives, and skilled at building trust across different spaces. You are motivated by questions of power, wealth, and justice, and by how institutions like JRF can use their position to support deeper transitions rather than short‑term fixes. You might come from civic, community, research, policy, or cross‑sector work. What matters most is how you show up, with integrity, curiosity, and a commitment to working in service of transitions to support just and regenerative futures.
Contact Cadence Partners at jrf-ycpl@cadencepartners.co.uk if you need candidate materials in an alternative format or have questions not covered on the microsite. Closing date: 23:59, Sunday 21st June.
York Civic Partnerships Lead employer: Cadence Partners
At Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, deeply rooted in the vibrant city of York. Our commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture empowers employees to engage meaningfully with local communities, driving impactful change while supporting personal and professional growth. With a focus on social justice and sustainability, we offer unique opportunities to contribute to transformative initiatives that honour our legacy and address pressing societal challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land York Civic Partnerships Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to civic partnerships or community work. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential collaborators and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up authentically! When you’re in interviews or networking situations, be yourself. Share your passion for community work and how you can contribute to the mission of organisations like JRF.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you on their radar as they make decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace York Civic Partnerships Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Why:Before you start writing, take a moment to reflect on why you want this role. What excites you about working with communities and civic partners in York? We want to see your passion shine through!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description. We’re looking for those who can build trusted relationships and think systemically, so show us how you fit the bill!
Be Authentic:Let your personality come through in your writing. We value integrity and curiosity, so don’t be afraid to share your unique perspective and experiences that have shaped your approach to community work.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which we really appreciate. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cadence Partners
✨Know Your Legacy
Before the interview, dive deep into the history of JRF and its founding principles. Understand what it means to honour that legacy in today's context, especially in relation to issues like wealth inequality and community engagement. This will help you articulate how your values align with theirs.
✨Build Your Relationships
Since this role is all about building trusted relationships, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with diverse stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you approach relationship-building and what strategies you use to foster trust and cooperation.
✨Embrace Uncertainty
The job description mentions comfort with uncertainty and holding multiple perspectives. Prepare to share instances where you've navigated complex situations or made decisions without having all the answers. Highlight your adaptability and how you thrive in dynamic environments.
✨Show Your Commitment to Justice
Be prepared to discuss your motivations around power, wealth, and justice. Think about how institutions can drive meaningful change and be ready to share your vision for supporting just and regenerative futures. This will demonstrate your alignment with JRF's mission and values.
