At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead advocacy and external affairs to promote employee ownership across the UK.
- Company: Join a dynamic network dedicated to transforming the economy through employee ownership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: High-profile role with the chance to make a real difference in the community.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping a fairer, more resilient UK economy.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in advocacy, strong leadership skills, and commercial insight.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Employee ownership in the UK is at a critical moment. The sector has more than doubled since 2020. Awareness is rising. Evidence is compelling. Businesses, communities, and policymakers are increasingly recognising that a people-powered approach can unlock fairness, resilience, and productivity.
We believe the UK can reach 10,000 employee owned businesses within the decade, transforming succession, broadening ownership, and reshaping the economic landscape. But achieving this relies on bold, strategic, values-led leadership across our community.
The eoa exists to build and connect that community: a network of more than 800 member businesses, thousands of employee owners, specialist advisors, policymakers, and partners committed to powering fairer livelihoods and stronger businesses through employee ownership.
As Director of External Affairs and Growth, you’ll be the driving force behind the eoa’s external influence and reach. You’ll lead our advocacy and external affairs strategy, build meaningful partnerships, and deliver powerful events programmes that accelerate adoption of Great EO. You’ll also shape the narrative—ensuring our insights, policy recommendations and thought leadership land with impact.
This is a high-profile, senior leadership role at a pivotal time for the EO community. It calls for someone with a track record in advocacy or external affairs, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. It also needs a big-picture thinker—someone who can champion EO, influence change, and help us build a more inclusive, resilient economy.
If you are energised by the opportunity to help shape a fairer, more resilient UK economy, and to support a community capable of real impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Director of External Affairs and Growth in Manchester employer: eoa
The Employee Ownership Association is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers its employees to drive meaningful change in the economy. With a strong focus on professional development, team members are encouraged to grow their skills and take on leadership roles while working in a vibrant environment that values innovation and advocacy. Located in the heart of the UK, the association offers unique opportunities to engage with influential stakeholders and make a tangible impact on the future of employee ownership.
