At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and oversee strategic, operational, and financial functions of EACS.
- Company: EACS, a vital voluntary sector provider of low-cost counselling in Ealing.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, generous holiday allowance, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to operational excellence and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health while leading a compassionate organisation.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health and management within the charity sector preferred.
EACS is an established voluntary sector provider of 1:1 low-cost counselling and psychotherapy to people living in Ealing. EACS serves a very diverse local population whose mental health needs often fall outside of NHS talking therapy; or where people may want a different space from the statutory services. We often support people who bring complex histories, needing more in-depth support over a longer period.
The role requires a broad skillset and brings a balance of engaging with internal day-to-day functions; and external collaboration borne out of a thorough grasp of all aspects of service-delivery and the culture of EACS. An understanding of the voluntary sector is important. The role will bring a particular focus on long-term sustainability, financial resilience and increasing our visibility and reach, while continuing to maintain operational excellence and high-quality, compassionate service-delivery.
You will be joining a hard-working, collaborative staff team that has flourished within a supportive, non-hierarchical structure but where lines of responsibility are clear.
Key components of the role:- Provide overall leadership and strategic direction while maintaining a strong operational ‘grip’
- Lead on income generation, securing key funding for long term financial stability
- Strong relationship-building skills, leading with integrity, emotional intelligence and sound judgement
- Engage with mental health commissioners and represent EACS in meetings / collaborations with key partners in the public and voluntary sectors, and the wider community
- Sound understanding of governance, safeguarding and organisational risk
- Excellent report-writing skills with data and financial acumen; communicate well.
Our ideal candidate will have a strong interest and experience working in mental health; and current or previous management experience within the charity sector or other mission-driven organisation. Those with a background in the commercial sector who would value the opportunity to work within the voluntary sector, and who can demonstrate they have the skillset, qualities, attitude and values which underpin the role are also very welcome to apply. A qualified psychotherapist or counsellor would be highly desirable but is not essential.
If you are a thoughtful, values-led leader and are motivated by the opportunity to lead an organisation where the work is both professional and deeply human, we would love to hear from you.
Location: Routinely office-based at EACS, Montpelier Avenue, W5 2XP with some flexibility
Reports to: Chair of Management Committee
Employment: Permanent
Holiday: EACS office is normally closed for 2 weeks during: Christmas/New Year; Easter; late August/ early September; and May bank holidays. There is some flexibility in these timings. A further 3 weeks per annum can be taken during term time.
Please refer to the candidate pack for full details. If you wish to apply, in the first instance please provide your current CV & supporting statement, outlining why you are interested in applying for the post of Director of EACS at this time; and also outline how you meet the requirements of the Person Specification with reference to your Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Values demonstrated in your working life. Please address your application to: The Chair of the Management Committee.
Director employer: Ealing Abbey Counselling Service
EACS is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team in providing vital mental health support within the Ealing community. With a strong focus on employee well-being, a collaborative work culture, and opportunities for professional growth, EACS fosters an environment where compassionate service delivery thrives. The role of Director not only allows for strategic influence but also offers the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve, all while enjoying flexible working arrangements and generous holiday provisions.
Contact Detail:
Ealing Abbey Counselling Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health and voluntary sectors. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet people who might know about opportunities at EACS or similar organisations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching EACS thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and the community they serve. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss your approach to managing teams and projects. Use examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to lead with integrity and emotional intelligence.
✨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 EACS team and contributing to their important work.
We think you need these skills to ace Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director role at EACS. Highlight your relevant experience in mental health and the voluntary sector, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Explain why you're interested in this role and how your skills align with our mission. Be genuine and let your passion for mental health and community service come through.
Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills:Since the role involves engaging with various stakeholders, make sure to highlight your relationship-building skills. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, as this is key for us at EACS.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to engage with our digital platforms!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ealing Abbey Counselling Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand EACS's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to mental health support and the unique challenges they face in the voluntary sector. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your previous management experiences and how you've successfully led teams in the past. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to engage with staff, build relationships, and maintain operational excellence.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Since the role involves income generation and financial stability, brush up on your financial acumen. Be ready to discuss strategies you've implemented in the past to secure funding or manage budgets effectively. This will show that you can contribute to EACS's long-term sustainability.
✨Engage with Emotional Intelligence
EACS values emotional intelligence and integrity. During the interview, demonstrate your understanding of these qualities by sharing experiences where you've navigated complex interpersonal situations. This will illustrate your capability to lead with compassion and sound judgement in a mental health context.
