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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.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working days, and the chance to make a real impact.
- 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.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role until mid-2026, based in Manchester City Centre.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ 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 collaborators and gain insights into the current challenges and opportunities in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Digital Advantage's mission and values by engaging with their online content and social media. Understanding their approach to inclusivity and digital training will help you align your vision with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in governance and organisational change management. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams through transitions and improved organisational culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the current trends in digital education and youth empowerment, particularly focusing on inclusivity and SEND-related initiatives. This knowledge will not only enhance your conversations but also demonstrate your commitment to the organisation's goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief Executive Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Organisation: Familiarise yourself with Digital Advantage's mission, values, and the specific challenges they face. This will help you tailor your application to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your senior leadership experience, particularly in charity or mission-driven organisations. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed governance, organisational change, and strategic planning.
Showcase Your Vision: Articulate a clear vision for the role of Interim CEO. Discuss how you would approach governance improvements, culture building, and the recruitment process for a permanent CEO, reflecting on your understanding of the organisation's needs.
Tailor Your Application Documents: Ensure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored to this role. Use keywords from the job description and person specification to highlight your suitability and commitment to inclusion and youth empowerment.
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 discuss how you would enhance them. This shows your commitment to accountability and transparency.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Values
Digital Advantage prioritises inclusivity and values-driven culture. Prepare to articulate how you would promote these principles within the organisation. Share your experiences related to diversity and inclusion, and how they can positively impact organisational culture and performance.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
The role involves strategic planning and collaboration with senior leaders. Be ready to discuss your approach to developing a comprehensive 3-year strategy. Think about how you would engage stakeholders in this process and identify new income generation opportunities to ensure sustainability.
