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- Tasks: Lead and guide a charity focused on empowering young people through digital training.
- Company: Digital Advantage is a not-for-profit charity dedicated to inclusive digital education for youth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working days, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role until mid-2026, based in Manchester City Centre.
- Why this job: Shape the future of digital education while fostering an inclusive culture and strong governance.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in a charity or mission-driven organisation is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Manchester City Centre (On-site only)
Contract Type: Fixed Term (Until July or August 2026)
Working Pattern: 3 days per week
Salary: £60,000 (pro-rata)
Start Date: As soon as possible
About Digital Advantage
Digital Advantage (DA) is a not-for-profit charity delivering industry-led digital training to young people, with a particular focus on inclusivity and those with additional needs. DISC is a specialist college within the charity, offering supported digital education and work-based learning. Together, they empower learners to thrive in the digital economy by equipping them with the skills, confidence, and ambition needed for a successful and independent future.
Role Purpose
The Interim CEO will provide visionary leadership and stability while embedding strong governance practices, supporting board development, and guiding the organisation through the recruitment of a permanent CEO. The role also includes strategic collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team and delivery partners to develop a refreshed constitution, strengthen internal culture, and create a comprehensive 3-year strategy.
Key Priorities
1. Resolve governance structures, improve board objectivity, and redevelop the organisational constitution.
2. Lead the creation of a robust, values-driven recruitment process for appointing a new permanent CEO by 2026.
3. Build a sustainable, healthy organisational culture aligned with our mission and inclusive values.
Key Responsibilities
Governance & Leadership
- Review and strengthen current governance, compliance, and accountability mechanisms.
- Work with Trustees to ensure objectivity, diversity, and effectiveness at board level.
- Ensure all policies, procedures, and the scheme of delegation are both reflective of our values and actively adhered to.
- Submit a monthly CEO report to the Board of Trustees.
- Lead a comprehensive review and redevelopment of the organisation’s constitution with external legal or governance advisors.
- Maintain a strong relationship with the Board, acting as the primary liaison.
Strategic Development
- Collaborate with the COO, CFO, and SLT to co-create and launch a 3-year strategic plan encompassing operations, finance, fundraising, and programme delivery.
- Ensure strategic decisions are informed by stakeholder consultation (staff, young people, funders).
- Identify and develop new income generation opportunities to support the sustainability of the organisation.
Culture & People
- Promote and embed a healthy, inclusive, and values-led workplace culture.
- Provide direct line management to members of the Senior Leadership Team.
- Work alongside our new HR Advisor to shape a resilient and supportive working environment.
Partnership Management
- Strengthen collaboration with our connected delivery partner, SENDCode (Digital Agency).
- Negotiate and agree effective ways of working, shared goals, and accountability frameworks.
CEO Transition Planning
- Lead the full process to recruit and onboard a permanent CEO, including designing the recruitment framework, timelines, and handover plan.
- Work with Trustees and the HR Advisor to ensure a transparent and equitable process.
Person Specification
Essential
- Substantial senior leadership experience, ideally as a CEO or equivalent, in a charity, social enterprise, or mission-driven organisation.
- Deep understanding of good governance, board development, and regulatory compliance.
- Proven ability to manage organisational change and embed strong culture.
- Strong financial and strategic planning capabilities.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently with internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience working with or managing delivery partnerships.
- Commitment to inclusion, social impact, and youth empowerment.
Desirable
- Experience in education, digital skills development, or SEND-related sectors.
- Familiarity with the governance framework of a CIO.
Interim Chief Executive Officer employer: Digital Advantage
Contact Detail:
Digital Advantage Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Chief Executive Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the charity and education sectors, especially those who have experience in governance and leadership roles. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential referees or mentors who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Digital Advantage's mission and values by engaging with their online content and social media. This will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their goals during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing organisational change and developing governance structures. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led similar initiatives, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends in digital training and inclusivity within the education sector. Being knowledgeable about these topics will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations with stakeholders and show your commitment to the organisation's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief Executive Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Organisation: Before applying, take the time to understand Digital Advantage's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their focus on inclusivity and digital training for young people, as this will help you tailor your application to align with their goals.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your senior leadership experience, particularly in charity or mission-driven organisations. Provide specific examples of how you've managed organisational change, governance, and strategic planning.
Showcase Your Vision: As the role requires visionary leadership, articulate your vision for the organisation in your application. Discuss how you would approach the key priorities outlined in the job description, such as governance structures and organisational culture.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your application is tailored specifically for this role. Address the key responsibilities and person specification directly in your cover letter, demonstrating how your skills and experiences make you the ideal candidate for the Interim CEO position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Advantage
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As an Interim CEO, your leadership experience is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or organisations, particularly in a charity or mission-driven context. Highlight any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage change and foster a positive culture.
✨Understand Governance and Compliance
Given the emphasis on governance in this role, make sure you have a solid understanding of good governance practices. Familiarise yourself with the organisation's current governance structures and be ready to suggest improvements. This will show your commitment to transparency and accountability.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Values
Digital Advantage prioritises inclusivity and values-driven culture. Prepare to discuss how you have promoted these principles in your previous roles. Share examples of how you've engaged diverse stakeholders and created an inclusive environment, as this aligns with the organisation's mission.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
The role involves strategic planning and collaboration with senior leaders. Be ready to discuss your approach to developing long-term strategies and how you would engage with various stakeholders. Think about potential income generation opportunities and how you would align them with the organisation's goals.