At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a trauma-informed charity, shaping strategy and driving meaningful impact for families affected by addiction.
- Company: ESCAPE Family Support, an award-winning charity with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, 28 days leave, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Join a values-driven team and enjoy exceptional organisational culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while leading with purpose and flexibility.
- Qualifications: Experienced senior leader with a commitment to trauma-informed, person-centred practice.
Lead with purpose. Work with flexibility. Make a lasting difference. ESCAPE Family Support is seeking an inspirational Chief Executive to lead an award-winning, highly respected, trauma-informed charity, supporting families and children affected by a loved one's addiction and making a real difference in Northumberland. This is a rare opportunity to shape strategy, influence services, and drive meaningful impact for families affected by addiction within a values-led, collaborative organisation. As one of the very few charities of our size to hold Investors in People Platinum accreditation, we offer an exceptional working culture built on trust, empowerment and strong relationships.
You will work with a committed team and board and engage with partners at local, regional and national level to shape the future of our services. This role offers the chance to lead with purpose, influence change and leave a lasting legacy. This is a rare opportunity to step into a CEO role that offers genuine flexibility, meaningful impact and an outstanding organisational culture.
ABOUT ESCAPE
Founded from lived experience, ESCAPE is the only organisation in Northumberland dedicated to supporting families affected by addiction. Our work changes lives - every day. We are:
- Trauma informed and evidence-based
- An AIM registered training centre
- A trusted partner across statutory and voluntary sectors
- Proud holders of Investor in People Platinum
- An accredited Living Wage Employer
About the role
As Chief Executive you will:
- Provide strategic leadership and direction
- Work closely with a committed Board of Trustees
- Lead an experienced and values-driven team
- Develop partnerships throughout Northumberland and across the region
- Ensure high quality, sustainable services for families
You will play a central role in shaping the future of the organisation and strengthening its impact.
Why join ESCAPE?
- Flexible leadership role
- Full or part-time from 0.6 FTE minimum
- Flexible trust-based working
- Opportunity to shape how you lead
- Exceptional Culture
- Investor in People Platinum accredited
- Reflective supervision and leadership support
- Collaborative, values-driven environment
- Meaningful impact
- Direct influence on services supporting families in crisis
- Opportunity to build on a strong legacy
- Visible and tangible difference in the community
Who we are looking for
- An experienced senior leader (charity, public or related sector)
- Strategically minded with strong operational awareness
- Skilled in building partnerships and relationships
- Committed to trauma-informed, person-centred practice
- Values-led, emotionally intelligent, and authentic
This role could suit:
- An existing CEO seeking greater balance and purpose
- A senior leader ready for their first CEO role
What we offer
- £48,000 - £55,000 salary (pro rata) depending on skills and experience
- Full time or Part-time (from 0.6 FTE minimum)
- Permanent
- 28 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays (pro rata)
- 6% employer pension contribution
- Simply Health package (including eye care)
- Family-friendly policies
- Reflective supervision and practice
- Flexible, trust-based working
For further information and details on how to apply, please visit ESCAPE's website for application form and full recruitment pack. Closing date for applications: 26th June 2026 at 17.00.
Chief Executive Officer in Ashington employer: ESCAPE Family Support
ESCAPE Family Support is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a trauma-informed charity dedicated to making a meaningful impact in Northumberland. With a strong emphasis on flexibility, collaboration, and a values-driven culture, employees benefit from a supportive environment that fosters personal and professional growth. As a holder of the Investors in People Platinum accreditation, ESCAPE provides a platform for leaders to shape strategy and influence change while enjoying competitive benefits and a commitment to work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer in Ashington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector, especially those who have experience with trauma-informed practices. A personal introduction can make all the difference when you're aiming for a leadership role.
✨Tip Number 2
Research ESCAPE Family Support thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in making a meaningful impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by thinking about how your past experiences align with the role. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams, built partnerships, and made a difference in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining a values-led organisation like ESCAPE.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in Ashington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see your passion for making a difference and how your values align with ours at ESCAPE. Don’t be afraid to share your personal experiences that have shaped your leadership style!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the CEO role. Highlight your strategic leadership experience and how you've successfully built partnerships in the past. This shows us you understand what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Impact:We love to see tangible examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to lead teams, influence change, and create meaningful impact, especially in trauma-informed settings.
Follow Our Application Process:To make things easier for both of us, please apply through our website. You'll find all the necessary forms and details there. Remember, the closing date is 26th June 2026 at 17.00, so don’t leave it to the last minute!
How to prepare for a job interview at ESCAPE Family Support
✨Understand the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to really understand ESCAPE's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their trauma-informed approach and how they support families affected by addiction. This will not only help you align your answers with their goals but also show your genuine interest in making a meaningful impact.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential CEO, it's crucial to articulate your leadership style clearly. Think about examples from your past where you've led teams or initiatives successfully. Be ready to discuss how you would foster a collaborative and values-driven environment at ESCAPE, highlighting your commitment to emotional intelligence and person-centred practice.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and operational awareness. Prepare to discuss how you would shape the future of ESCAPE, influence services, and develop partnerships. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your ability to drive meaningful change and ensure high-quality services.
✨Engage with the Board's Vision
Since you'll be working closely with the Board of Trustees, it's important to understand their vision for the organisation. Research their current initiatives and think about how your skills can complement their goals. During the interview, engage them in a conversation about their vision and share your ideas on how to enhance ESCAPE's impact in the community.
