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: Flexible working, competitive salary, generous 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 strong operational awareness and partnership-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 55000 £ per year.
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 levels to shape the future of our services. This role offers the chance to lead with purpose, influence change and leave a lasting legacy.
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 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, trust-based working, and a collaborative culture, employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises personal and professional growth. As a holder of Investors in People Platinum accreditation, ESCAPE fosters a values-driven atmosphere where leaders can truly shape the future of services for families affected by addiction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, attend events, and connect with others on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their mission and how you can contribute to it. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your experience aligns with their needs. Keep it concise and impactful – you want to leave them wanting to know more!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer
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 influenced change in previous positions. We love seeing how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Impact:Use your application to demonstrate the tangible impact you've made in your previous roles. Whether it's through partnerships you've built or services you've improved, we want to know how you've made a difference and how you plan to do the same at ESCAPE.
Follow the Application Process:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Make sure to check out the full recruitment pack for all the details you need to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at ESCAPE Family Support
✨Know Your Purpose
As a potential CEO, it's crucial to articulate your vision and purpose clearly. Reflect on how your values align with ESCAPE's mission to support families affected by addiction. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led with purpose in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare to discuss your strategic leadership experience. Think about how you've shaped organisational strategies in the past and be ready to present ideas on how you would influence services at ESCAPE. Use data or case studies to back up your points.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
This role requires a values-led and emotionally intelligent leader. Be prepared to discuss how you've built strong relationships and partnerships in your previous roles. Share stories that highlight your ability to connect with diverse stakeholders and lead a committed team.
✨Engage with Flexibility
ESCAPE values flexibility in leadership. Think about how you can adapt your leadership style to meet the needs of your team and the families you serve. Be ready to discuss how you would create a collaborative environment that empowers others while maintaining high-quality services.
