Riverside Counselling Service is a BACP-accredited charity providing high-quality, affordable and accessible counselling and therapeutic services to adults and young people across South Oxfordshire.
Established in Henley-on-Thames in 1989, we now support more than 300 local people each year through one-to-one counselling, therapeutic groups and brief-intervention services.
About the role
We are seeking an inspiring, compassionate and entrepreneurial Chief Executive Officer to lead Riverside into the next phase of its development.
Working closely with our Board of Trustees, management team, clinical team, counsellors and volunteers, the CEO will provide strategic and organisational leadership while strengthening Riverside's long-term sustainability, resilience and impact.
A central priority will be growing and diversifying Riverside's income through fundraising, partnerships and new opportunities for service development.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic and organisational leadership
- Developing and delivering a sustainable fundraising and income-generation strategy
- Working with the Board to translate Riverside's vision into clear priorities and plans
- Leading and supporting our small management team
- Maintaining oversight of finances, governance, risk and regulatory compliance
- Supporting high standards of clinical governance, safeguarding and service quality
- Building relationships with funders, donors, partners and local organisations
- Acting as an ambassador for Riverside across South Oxfordshire
- Identifying opportunities for partnerships, growth and service development
About you
We are looking for someone with:
- Proven leadership experience within a small charity, voluntary-sector or public-sector organisation
- Experience of developing strategies that strengthen financial sustainability and generate income
- Strong financial, organisational and relationship-building skills
- An understanding of mental health services and the contribution of counselling and talking therapies
- A collaborative, inclusive and empowering leadership style
- The ability to work strategically, prioritise effectively and make sound decisions within a part-time senior role
Previous charity CEO experience is welcomed but is not essential. We know that brilliant candidates come from a wide range of backgrounds.
- Location: Home-based, with regular attendance at Riverside locations and meetings across South Oxfordshire
- Shortlisting: Week commencing 5 October 2026
- First-stage interviews: Week commencing 12 October 2026
Riverside actively encourages applications from all sections of the community and is committed to ensuring that its recruitment practices are accessible, fair and inclusive
Chief Executive Officer in Henley on Thames employer: Riverside Counselling Service
Riverside Counselling Service is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and clients. As a BACP-accredited charity based in the picturesque South Oxfordshire, we provide meaningful opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly for those passionate about mental health services. Join us in making a tangible impact in the community while enjoying the flexibility of a home-based role with regular engagement across our local locations.
Contact Details:
Riverside Counselling Service Recruitment Team
