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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic youth charity, inspiring change and driving fundraising efforts.
- Company: Ambitious youth charity with a strong community impact in Manchester.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, generous holiday allowance, pension contribution, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a values-driven organisation committed to diversity and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership and fundraising experience in the charity sector.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a CEO who is inspiring, values-driven, and a confident fundraiser to lead the next exciting chapter for one of Manchester’s most ambitious youth charities. This is an exciting time to join an organisation with an established youth work provision, strong reputation in private, public and voluntary sectors, and a successful track record of grants and trusts which includes a capital expenditure investment of £1.4M.
Position: CEO
Location: Manchester/Hybrid
Salary: Up to £80,000 per annum (dependent upon experience)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
Benefits: Hybrid working, 5% pension contribution, 33 days inclusive of bank holidays (pro-rata), extra day off for your birthday, learning & development opportunities, access to EAP, onsite gym, sports, arts and music facilities and subsidised food from our canteen
Closing Date: 21st May 2026
About the Role
As Chief Executive, you will combine inspirational leadership with a strong, hands-on approach to fundraising and commercial direction. Acting as a visible ambassador for the Youth Zone, you will build trust with partners across the city, influence at a regional and national level, and lead with integrity, creativity and purpose to ensure lasting impact for young people and the communities we serve. Alongside fundraising leadership, you will provide strategic direction, financial clarity and cultural leadership to a values-driven organisation focused relentlessly on young people. You will empower a talented Senior Leadership Team and wider workforce to deliver high-quality, inclusive youth work, while ensuring strong safeguarding, and a safe, inspiring facility that remains fit for purpose. You will report to the Chair of the Board, through a high support and high challenge relationship, managing an annual budget of approx. £1.2-£1.5m p.a. ensuring the Youth Zone delivers a high-quality offer to local young people.
Key areas of responsibility include:
- Strategy & Governance
- Fundraising & Financial Sustainability
- Leadership & Culture
- Partnerships, Profile & Influence
- Youth Work Quality & Safeguarding
- Building and Facilities
About You
We are looking for a proven leader with significant fundraising experience who can demonstrate success in building long-term relationships with major donors (£25k+), corporate partners, trusts and statutory funders, and who can confidently translate ambition into a diverse, resilient income pipeline that secures the future of the organisation. You will have experience of:
- Successful senior leadership experience within a charity or similar complex organisation.
- Experience of hands-on fundraising, such as securing and stewarding major donors (£25k+), corporates, trusts and statutory funding.
- Developing and delivering organisational strategies and business plans.
- Leading financially sustainable organisations with strong governance and controls.
- Developing and overseeing high-quality youth-focused services or programmes.
- Working within multi-agency environments, particularly around safeguarding.
To apply, please submit a CV and Cover Letter (of not more than one page), explaining clearly why you are interested in the role.
About the Organisation
The Youth Zone is a limited charity that has been delivering high quality youth provision for 12 years. Originally commissioned with MyPlace funding, the organisation has become a community hub in Harpurhey, North Manchester – one of the poorest wards in England with 94% of youth members come from 1st/ 2nd indices on the national poverty index scale, where cost of living increases impacted hard and caused further adversity and inequality. As an equal opportunities’ employer, we welcome applications from under-represented groups; in particular from Black, Asian, Mixed Race & other ethnically diverse individuals, people with disabilities, and members of LGBTQ+ communities. The charity is committed to the safeguarding of young people. In accordance with their Child Protection and Safeguarding procedures, this position requires an enhanced DBS check.
CEO in Manchester employer: Manchester Youth Zone
Contact Detail:
Manchester Youth Zone Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CEO in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the charity sector. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential mentors or peers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for youth work shine through. Share your vision and how you can make a difference. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can inspire others!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in leading their team.
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace CEO in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic: When writing your cover letter, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you and understand what drives your passion for youth work and fundraising. Don’t be afraid to share your story and how it aligns with our mission.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in leadership and fundraising. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've built relationships with major donors and led successful initiatives. Show us how your background makes you the perfect fit!
Keep It Concise: Remember, we’ve asked for a one-page cover letter, so keep it concise and to the point. Focus on the key reasons why you’re interested in the role and how your skills align with our needs. Less is more, so make every word count!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Youth Zone
✨Know Your Impact
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your past achievements in fundraising and leadership. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've built relationships with major donors and secured funding. This will show your potential employer that you understand the importance of financial sustainability for the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Vision
As a CEO, you'll need to inspire others with your vision. Prepare to discuss your strategic ideas for the Youth Zone and how you plan to lead the organisation towards its goals. Think about how you can align your vision with their mission to support young people and the community.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Leadership
Cultural leadership is key in this role. Be prepared to talk about how you've fostered a positive organisational culture in your previous roles. Share examples of how you've empowered teams and ensured high-quality services, especially in youth-focused environments.
✨Engage with Their Values
Research the Youth Zone's values and mission thoroughly. During the interview, connect your personal values with theirs. Show that you are not just a fit for the role but also for the organisation's ethos, particularly around safeguarding and inclusivity.