At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a youth music charity, shaping strategy and driving social change through creativity.
- Company: Ambitious youth music charity transforming young lives across Sussex.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join at a pivotal moment for growth and influence in the creative sector.
- Why this job: Be a voice for young people and lead meaningful change in their lives.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and a passion for youth and music.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Lead change through music. Shape young lives.
Location: Sussex (Brighton & Worthing base, with regional travel)
Salary: c. £65,000
Contract: Full-time, permanent
About the organisation
They are an ambitious youth music charity using creativity to transform young people's lives. Working across Sussex, they support young people - particularly those facing disadvantage - to build confidence, find their voice and progress into education, employment and the creative industries. With strong local roots and growing national recognition, the charity combines youth work, music culture and evidence-led practice to create lasting social impact.
The Opportunity
They are seeking a new Chief Executive to lead the organisation into its next phase of impact and growth. Reporting to the Board, you will set strategic direction, strengthen financial sustainability and lead a values-driven organisation through a period of transition and opportunity. This is a high-impact role combining strategy, cultural leadership, external influence and hands-on organisational leadership.
What You'll Do
- Set direction - lead and deliver a clear, ambitious strategy
- Lead people and culture - foster an inclusive, high-performing and youth-centred organisation
- Drive sustainability - develop income, partnerships and long-term resilience
- Champion safeguarding and inclusion - ensure young people remain safe, heard and at the heart of decisions
- Be our voice - represent the charity with funders, partners and across the sector
- Deliver impact - strengthen evidence, learning and outcomes for young people
About You
You are a values-led, emotionally intelligent leader with the credibility and judgement to lead a mission-driven organisation. You will bring:
- Senior leadership experience with strategic and operational responsibility
- A track record of leading change, growth or organisational development
- Experience of fundraising, business development or income generation
- Strong financial and governance oversight
- The ability to build partnerships and influence at a senior level
- A deep commitment to young people, inclusion and safeguarding
A connection to music, youth or creative sectors is highly valued.
Why Join
- Lead a respected, high-impact organisation at a pivotal moment
- Shape strategy and growth with real autonomy
- Work at the intersection of youth, culture and social change
- Make a tangible difference to young people's lives
Recruitment Timeline:
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold AudioActive's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Outgoing CEO. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Tuesday 2nd June 6-7pm and we will send you a link.
Application Deadline: 5pm, Monday 15th June 2026
First Interviews: w/c 6th July 2026
Final Interviews: w/c 13th July
How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to the charity on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to and request a candidate pack in the first instance. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala on or Tiku van Houtem on or send an email to.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment
Any offer of employment will be made subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and, where relevant, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy. The charity operates within robust safeguarding standards and procedures. We are fully committed to creating a safe environment for the children, young people and communities we work with. As such, we carry out comprehensive checks on all potential new staff to deter individuals with harmful intentions and reduce the likelihood of unsafe practice. All staff who work directly with children, young people, or have access to confidential information will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check. In line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, applicants are required to disclose any unspent criminal convictions. Certain roles, particularly those involving work with children and vulnerable people, are exempt from the Act and may require disclosure of all convictions, including those that are spent.
CEO in Heathfield employer: Charity People
Join a dynamic youth music charity in Sussex that is dedicated to transforming young lives through creativity and music. As a values-driven organisation, we foster an inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development, offering you the autonomy to shape impactful strategies while making a tangible difference in the community. With strong local roots and a commitment to social change, this is an exceptional opportunity to lead a respected charity at a pivotal moment in its journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CEO in Heathfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the music and youth sectors, attend events, and connect with potential collaborators. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or be able to put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, let your enthusiasm for youth music and social change shine through. Share your vision and how you can make a difference – it’ll leave a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation’s impact and recent projects. Bring ideas to the table that align with their mission. This shows you’re not just interested in the title but genuinely care about their work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re here to support you throughout the process, so reach out if you need any help or advice.
We think you need these skills to ace CEO in Heathfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the role of Chief Executive. Highlight your leadership experience, especially in youth-focused or creative sectors, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about leading a youth music charity and how your values align with ours. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your past roles, focus on the impact you've made. Use specific examples of how you've led change or growth in previous positions, especially those that benefited young people or involved community engagement.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you have all the latest info about the role and the organisation. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Charity People
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, dive deep into the charity's mission and values. Understand how they use music to transform young lives and be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their goals. This shows genuine interest and commitment.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead change and drive growth. Highlight your experience in fundraising and building partnerships, as these are crucial for the CEO role. Use metrics to illustrate your impact.
✨Engage with Their Culture
Familiarise yourself with the local music scene and youth culture in Sussex. Be prepared to discuss how you can connect with young people and foster an inclusive environment. This will show that you’re not just a leader but also a community advocate.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the organisation’s future direction and challenges. This demonstrates your strategic thinking and genuine interest in the role. It’s also a great way to assess if the organisation aligns with your values.
