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- Tasks: Lead the CSPA, shaping strategy and campaigning for Civil Service Pensioners.
- Company: Join a respected organisation dedicated to supporting retired Civil Servants across the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days annual leave, pension scheme, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to influence policy at the highest levels.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pensioners while leading impactful campaigns.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for advocacy.
The predicted salary is between 68663 - 73212 £ per year.
We are seeking a new General Secretary to take up this pivotal, lead role in our organisation in Summer/Autumn 2026. You will be an experienced leader with the ability to consolidate and build the culture, reputation and influence of CSPA with a view to sustaining and growing the membership base.
This is a senior leadership position and as General Secretary, you will lead the organisation’s strategic direction, campaigning activity and day-to-day operations, ensuring we continue to effectively represent and support our members. You will work closely with the elected Executive Council and play a leading role in shaping and delivering campaigns agreed by members. You will represent CSPA at the highest levels, engaging with the Cabinet Office, pension administrators, MPs and sector partners to influence policy and protect the value of Civil Service Pensions.
Key aspects of the role include:
- Campaign on matters of interest to older people such as the State Pension, Pensioner Taxation, Digital and Social Exclusion and access to Public Transport.
- Act as the principal representative of CSPA in meetings with government, policymakers and partner organisations.
- Support and advise the Executive Council and its committees.
- Manage and develop the team of 10 head office staff.
- Monitor and respond to policy and legislative developments affecting pensioners.
CSPA is uniquely recognised by the Cabinet Office as a stakeholder representing those in receipt of a Civil Service Pension. You will lead negotiations with Scheme Managers at regular Cabinet Office meetings to ensure members’ interests are protected. You will also play a key role in responding to emerging challenges, including ongoing issues affecting Civil Service Pension administration, and contributing to the organisation’s future development.
The Civil Service Pensioners’ Alliance (CSPA) is a respected, independent and non-political membership organisation representing retired Civil Servants across the UK. We have existed for over 70 years to protect the value of Civil Service Pensions and to campaign on issues that matter to our members and older people more widely, ranging from the State Pension and taxation to health, social care, and digital inclusion.
This is a key position within the CSPA and we’re looking for a leader who is team orientated and approachable. You’re someone who can build strong working relationships and a positive work environment at our Head Office, across the CSPA, and with other partner organisations in the Age Sector. You’ll have prior management and leadership experience ideally gained within a membership or similar organisation and a strong track record in successful volunteer engagement would be an advantage. A strong communicator, you will be comfortable in using a range of methods and media to keep members, prospective members, external partners and others informed of the work of CSPA in a clear and concise manner. Prior knowledge of the age sector, the political environment, Civil Service and State Pension issues would be an advantage, however they are not essential.
The position is full-time and the current salary offered is £68,663 per annum on entry, rising to £73,212 after completion of one year’s satisfactory service. We offer 30 days of annual leave, plus Bank Holidays and the Christmas closure, as well as a contributory pension scheme.
Please contact CSPA HQ for further information and an application pack by emailing Nadeene.Morris@cspa.co.uk. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 1 June 2026. Interviews will take place, in person, during the week commencing 15 June 2026, in London.
General Secretary/CEO employer: CSPA (Civil Service Pensioners' Alliance)
Contact Detail:
CSPA (Civil Service Pensioners' Alliance) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Secretary/CEO
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the civil service and age sector. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that General Secretary role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching CSPA inside out. Understand their campaigns, values, and recent developments. This will not only impress the interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their mission effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss your past experiences in managing teams and engaging volunteers. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've built positive work environments and achieved results in similar organisations.
✨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 CSPA team and making a difference for our members.
We think you need these skills to ace General Secretary/CEO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the General Secretary role. Highlight your leadership experience and how it relates to building culture and influence within an organisation like CSPA.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a strong communicator, it's essential to demonstrate this in your written application. Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas, and don’t shy away from sharing examples of how you've effectively engaged with members or stakeholders in the past.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on your previous management roles and any experience you have in the age sector or with pension-related issues. This will show us that you understand the challenges and opportunities within the field, making you a more attractive candidate.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application reaches us directly and is considered promptly. Don’t forget to check the closing date!
How to prepare for a job interview at CSPA (Civil Service Pensioners' Alliance)
✨Know Your Organisation Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly research CSPA. Understand its mission, values, and recent campaigns. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role and organisation.
✨Prepare for Leadership Questions
As a General Secretary, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership skills. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or initiatives. Think about challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as these stories will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on current issues affecting pensioners and the age sector. Be ready to discuss your views on topics like State Pension and pensioner taxation. This shows that you're not only knowledgeable but also passionate about advocating for the members' interests.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a strong communicator, you’ll need to convey complex information clearly. Practice articulating your thoughts on key issues succinctly. Consider how you would explain CSPA's work to different audiences, as this will be crucial in your role representing the organisation.