Head Of Education, Skills And Diversity in City of London

The Royal Aeronautical Society is a professional body dedicated to aerospace, aviation, and space communities. It exists to further the advancement of aeronautical art, science, and engineering around the world. The Head of Education, Skills and Diversity will oversee the delivery of the RAeS Education, STEM/Aerospace Outreach, Skills and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategies. They will work closely with Society members, employers, academia, relevant government departments and key stakeholders, young people, and training providers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the Education & Skills and ED&I teams in creating a more diverse and inclusive culture across the Royal Aeronautical Society and wider aviation, aerospace, and space sectors.
• Lead the development and delivery of impartial career services and inspiration initiatives, including the RAeS flagship primary and secondary schools programmes.
• Lead on RAeS policy and consultation responses on STEM, skills, employability and ED&I matters, representing the RAeS on external employer and industry groups.
• Apply and promote ED&I initiatives, sharing best practice with RAeS Committees, Branches, Specialist Groups and internal staff teams, providing regular guidance and support.
• Manage all RAeS volunteer Committees, Groups and networks relating to Education, Skills and Diversity.
• Support various education, skills and ED&I partnerships with external organisations and key stakeholders, convening and closely collaborating with strategically aligned organisations.
• Lead on current and future funding bids for the education, skills and STEM outreach initiatives, writing bid applications, progress reports and liaising with new and potential funding partners.
• Oversee the scholarship and bursaries programmes, supporting greater inclusion for under‑represented groups seeking careers in the sector.
• Develop and promote the RAeS’ careers and employability digital offering and identify opportunities to enhance the Society’s provision of careers and ED&I information, support and guidance.
• Develop and promote the RAeS ED&I calendar, enhancing key campaigns, events and dates of celebration.
• Produce and implement an annual Education, Skills and Diversity communications plan, promoting events, activities and initiatives.
• Conduct comprehensive data analysis and evaluate research findings to produce detailed reports and papers as required, including the annual impact report for the Charity Commission on RAeS activities for young people.
• Manage budgets, including restricted funds, sponsorship and donations, including monthly forecasts and reports for FC and Board of Trustees as required, budget planning and attendance of budget meetings with senior executive team.
• Oversee and develop the RAeS Safeguarding Policy and procedures.
• Manage and develop staff, including review and appraisals of direct reports.

About You:

• Educated to degree level, completed an approved Level 6 apprenticeship or equivalent.
• Professional experience in a relevant field, such as careers/employability, education, STEM outreach, and ED&I.
• Related experience in a charity, professional body, business, or education environment either at voluntary or professional level.
• Ability to build and develop business‑education relationships with key stakeholders internally and externally.
• Experience of working collaboratively with Boards, Committees & Volunteers.
• Confident communicator on all levels with experience of presenting to and networking with a variety of audiences.
• Experience with Website Content Management Systems (CMS) & Customer Relationship Management systems (CRM).
• Programme and event management experience.
• Experience of budgets and financial management.
• Availability to work outside of usual working hours and able to commit to regular UK travel for events and exhibitions.
• Experience of the Aerospace/Aviation sector knowledge (desirable).

This role is also subject to an Enhanced DBS Check.

Our Culture: At the Royal Aeronautical Society, we play an important role in the Society’s vision of leading & providing knowledge to the Aerospace, Aviation and Space Professional community. You’ll join a team that is making a difference, and that will welcome and encourage your talent, skills and expertise and support your development.

Salary: £50,000

Location: London/Hybrid

Hours: Mon‑Fri 9am to 5pm (with some evening/weekend events)

Holiday: 33 days, including bank holidays

Other Benefits: Life Insurance, 8% Pension, Healthcare Scheme, Training & Development & Staff Socials