At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic direction and campaigning for the Civil Service Pensioners’ Alliance.
- Company: Join a respected, independent organisation representing retired Civil Servants across the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days annual leave, pension scheme, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career growth opportunities and a collaborative team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on issues affecting older people and protect Civil Service pensions.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and strong communication skills; knowledge of the age sector is a plus.
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.
The role: 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.
About us: 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.
About you: 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 offer: 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. 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 in Slough 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 in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that General Secretary role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching CSPA and understanding their mission. Be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their campaigns. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a General Secretary, you’ll need to convey ideas clearly and effectively. Try mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your pitch and get comfortable discussing your experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the CSPA team and making a difference for pensioners.
We think you need these skills to ace General Secretary/CEO in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Leadership Skills: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. We want to see how you've successfully led teams and influenced change in previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to build a positive culture and support your team.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges of the age sector and Civil Service Pensions. Make sure to tailor your application to reflect your knowledge and passion for these areas, showing us why you’re the perfect fit for CSPA.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clear communication, so keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us understand your message quickly and effectively, which is crucial for a role that involves representing our members.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it shows us that you’re keen on joining our team at CSPA!
How to prepare for a job interview at CSPA (Civil Service Pensioners' Alliance)
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the CSPA's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their campaigns and current issues affecting pensioners. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a General Secretary, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully led teams or initiatives. Highlight your approach to building relationships and fostering a positive work environment.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on relevant topics like State Pension, taxation, and digital inclusion. Be ready to discuss how these issues impact the CSPA's members and share your thoughts on potential strategies to address them. This shows you're proactive and informed.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the CSPA's future direction, challenges they face, and how you can contribute. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.