At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and HR to support a vibrant youth charity.
- Company: Exciting new youth charity focused on empowering young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days holiday, free gym access, and bespoke training.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management and HR, with strong leadership skills.
Are you a dynamic and organised leader, ready to inspire and support a dedicated team of staff and volunteers? Energetic, yet calm and composed at a senior level? If you’re excited about using your professional experience to make a difference to young people, this could be the perfect role for you! This is an exciting opportunity to take on a senior leadership role, where no two days are ever the same!
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.
Position: Head of Operations and People
Location: Tilbury, Essex (Until the youth zone is completed and fully operational you will be based at the temporary offices space at Tilbury Community Association)
Salary: £40,000 to £45,500 (dependent upon experience) with 33 days
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Benefits: 33 days Holiday (inclusive of bank holidays), Workplace pension, Free gym access (once the youth zone opens), Access to the organisations Talent Academy; bespoke training and mentoring
Closing Date: 12 noon on 5th June 2026. We may close this role early if we receive a high volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
First Stage Interviews: Online – 16th July 2026
Second Stage Interviews: 23rd July 2026 at a location local to Tilbury
About the Role
During the pre-opening phase, the role will focus on developing the youth zones back-office functions, undertaking all necessary tasks, planning and preparations to ensure we are fully operational at opening. This will include setting up the HR function ahead of recruiting the wider team and supporting staff wellbeing, development, and compliance. The Head of Operations and People role is a key position at the youth zone. When open, as part of the Senior Management team, you’ll lead and manage the back-office functions, ensuring the team deliver the best possible service to the thousands of young people who rely on the organisation.
We’re looking for an experienced and professional operational manager who can manage multiple teams and be the go-to person for ensuring the environment is safe, welcoming, and efficient, so the frontline teams can focus on delivering life-changing experiences for young people. In this role, you’ll also serve as the secretariat for the Board of Trustees and oversee monthly payroll administration. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the Youth Zone and make a real impact!
Key responsibilities include:
- Day to day operations
- Recruitment and HR management
- Compliance and legislation
- Financial and support function management
- Management and staff development
- Leadership and networking
- Safeguarding
About You
We’re looking for someone who can juggle multiple roles, tackle new challenges daily, and make a real impact on the lives of young people and the community. You will have experience of:
- Working in senior administrative and operational management roles within a busy office environment, including line management responsibility for large and varied staff teams.
- HR functions, including HR practices, procedures and policies.
- Basic finance administration processes, including payroll, accounts work and budget management.
- Providing high-level support to Boards, Chief Executives and external stakeholders, including partnership working, contracts, and service agreements and commissioning.
You will have proficient IT skills with an understanding of Office 365 and relevant support systems. If you have a passion for young people and genuine enthusiasm for working in a youth environment, then we would love to hear from you!
About the Organisation
Join a brand-new locally run youth charity, set to provide thousands of young people with the opportunity to have fun, make new friends, try something new and feel safe. With community centric values and located in the heart of Tilbury, it will be an inspiring place for young people aged 8 – 18, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, to feel empowered and try new experiences. The building is due to be completed in 2027. This is passionate, properly funded youth provision, with no ifs or buts. It’s about giving young people a chance to shine in an environment where they can be themselves. It’s about opportunity.
Our dedicated Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Group, with support from the Senior Leadership Team, is actively promoting and advancing diversity and inclusion, ensuring a culture where everyone can be themselves and thrive.
Head of Operations and People in Tilbury employer: Not For Profit People
Join a passionate and community-focused youth charity in Tilbury, where you will have the opportunity to lead operations and people management in a dynamic environment dedicated to empowering young individuals. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, we offer a supportive work culture, generous benefits including 33 days of holiday and access to bespoke training through our Talent Academy, ensuring your professional growth while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations and People in Tilbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues 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 those interviews like a pro! Research the organisation, understand their values, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Practise common interview questions and be ready to share examples of your leadership and operational skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the role! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. Share why you care about making a difference in their lives and how you plan to contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations and People in Tilbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and skills required for the Head of Operations and People role.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! We want to see how your experience aligns with our needs. Highlight relevant roles and achievements that showcase your operational management and HR expertise, especially in a youth-focused environment.
Show Your Passion for Youth Work:We’re all about making a difference in young people's lives. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working in a youth environment and how your values align with ours. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to this cause.
Apply Early Through Our Website:Don’t wait until the last minute! We might close the application process early if we get a lot of interest. Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Not For Profit People
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the organisation's mission and values. Understand their focus on youth empowerment and community engagement. This will help you align your answers with what they truly care about.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and operations in the past. Highlight your experience in HR management and compliance, as these are crucial for the Head of Operations and People role.
✨Be Ready to Juggle
Since this role involves managing multiple responsibilities, think of scenarios where you've effectively handled various tasks at once. Share how you prioritised and ensured everything ran smoothly, especially in a busy environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Inquire about their plans for the youth zone or how they envision the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
