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For Companies At a Glance
- 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 pattern, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven organisation that champions inclusivity and youth empowerment.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in a charity or mission-driven organisation is essential.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role based in Manchester City Centre, working 3 days a week.
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 involved in digital training and inclusivity. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential collaborators and stakeholders who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Digital Advantage's mission and values by exploring their website and social media channels. Understanding their current projects and challenges will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with governance and board development in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully implemented changes or improvements in these areas, as this will be crucial for the Interim CEO role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider how you would approach building a healthy organisational culture. Be ready to share strategies you've used in the past to foster inclusivity and engagement among staff, as this is a key priority for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief Executive Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Interim Chief Executive Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and person specification to tailor your application accordingly.
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 and improved governance.
Showcase Your Vision: Articulate your vision for the role in your application. Discuss how you would approach the key priorities outlined in the job description, such as strengthening governance and building an inclusive culture.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your documents are well-structured and professional.
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 your ability to manage change and foster a positive organisational culture.
✨Demonstrate Governance Knowledge
Understanding governance structures is key for this role. Familiarise yourself with good governance practices and be ready to discuss how you would strengthen board effectiveness and compliance. Mention any relevant experiences where you've improved governance in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Strategic Planning Skills
The role requires strong strategic planning capabilities. Prepare to talk about your experience in developing and implementing strategic plans, especially in collaboration with senior leadership teams. Share examples of how your strategic decisions have positively impacted an organisation.
✨Highlight Commitment to Inclusion
Digital Advantage values inclusivity and social impact. Be sure to express your commitment to these principles during the interview. Discuss any initiatives you've led or been part of that promote inclusivity, particularly in education or youth empowerment.
