Chief Executive in Bath, Somerset
Second Step Bath About the role
Second Step believes in a world where everyone affected by mental health problems can create a positive future. For almost 40 years, we have been a pioneer in community mental health and multiple disadvantage support across the South West. Today, we are the leading voluntary sector provider in Bristol and the West of England, working alongside people experiencing severe and enduring mental health needs, homelessness and multiple disadvantage. Our approach is trauma-informed, recovery-focused and shaped by lived experience and co-production.
Following a period of significant growth under our longstanding Chief Executive, we are seeking an exceptional leader to guide Second Step into its next chapter. This is an opportunity to lead an organisation with deep roots in its communities, strong partnerships across the NHS, commissioners, local government and voluntary sector, and a clear ambition to influence systems and improve outcomes for some of the most vulnerable people in society.
We are looking for a leader who combines strategic vision with operational rigour and compassionate leadership. You will bring substantial senior leadership experience, ideally gained across the voluntary, health or local authority sectors, alongside a track record of leading change, building partnerships and delivering organisational performance and growth. Experience of working within complex, place-based systems and a commitment to equity, inclusion and lived experience are essential.
Above all, you will share our values of hope, courage, trust, diversity and continuous learning and believe, as we do, that everyone affected by mental health challenges deserves the opportunity to build a positive future.
For more information and to apply, please visit: Closing date: Friday 17th July 2026.
Your tasks
Lead a pioneering mental health organisation and drive positive change in communities.
Your profile
Extensive senior leadership experience and a passion for equity and inclusion.
What's also included
Competitive salary, impactful work, and the chance to make a real difference.
Tech stack & ways of working
Chief Executive in Bath, Somerset employer: Second Step
Second Step is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises the well-being of both clients and staff. Located in the heart of the Southwest, we offer our employees comprehensive benefits, including generous annual leave and extensive training opportunities, ensuring personal and professional growth in the rewarding field of mental health support.
Your perspectives
Shape the future of mental health support and empower vulnerable individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Get Involved Locally
Dive into local volunteer opportunities or social initiatives. This not only beefs up your CV but also connects you with like-minded folks in nonprofits. Plus, it shows your passion for social impact, which is key for getting noticed by Second Step.
Tap into Professional Networks
Join networks like the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) or local charities to meet professionals in the sector. Attend events and workshops to build relationships and learn about potential openings at organisations like Second Step.
Showcase Your Commitment
When prepping for interviews, be ready to speak about your personal connection to social issues. Dive into specific examples of how you’ve contributed to community projects – this will resonate with the mission-driven vibe at Second Step.
Utilise Online Platforms
We’re all about making connections, so use platforms like Idealist and CharityJob to hunt for full-time roles. And of course, you should keep an eye on our website for exciting opportunities at Second Step. Apply directly through us to stand out!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause
In the nonprofit sector, it's super important to demonstrate genuine passion for the mission of Second Step. Use your cover letter to showcase any personal experiences or volunteer work that connects you to their social impact initiatives. This emotional connection can really help your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience
When crafting your CV, be sure to include any relevant projects or roles that showcase your skills in social impact. Whether it's community organising, fundraising, or advocacy, highlight what you've done and the difference it's made. Don’t just list tasks; quantify your achievements and the outcomes of your efforts.
Tailor Your Documents to the Role
For a full-time role like Chief Executive, ensure your CV and cover letter specifically address the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use their language to describe your skills and experience, making it easy for the hiring team to see how you fit into their vision.
Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
Nonprofits thrive on teamwork, so make sure to emphasise your collaborative experiences. Whether you've worked in a team setting, partnered with community organisations, or facilitated group projects, highlight these experiences in your application. Show them you understand the importance of working alongside diverse individuals to achieve shared goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Second Step
Show Your Passion for Social Change
When we’re prepping for interviews in the nonprofit space, it's vital to demonstrate our genuine passion for social impact. Be ready to discuss not just your skills and experiences but also why you care about the mission of Second Step. Sharing personal stories or insights can really make us stand out.
Highlight Project Experience
We should focus on specific projects we've worked on that align with the goals of social impact. Whether that’s a community initiative, volunteering, or a class project, having solid examples that showcase our role and the outcomes will resonate well with the interviewers.
Familiarity with Relevant Tools and Practices
Let’s brush up on tools and methodologies commonly used in the nonprofit sector, like project management software or outcome measurement frameworks. Being able to speak fluently about these will show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable and ready to hit the ground running.
Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that evaluate our problem-solving skills in real-world social issues. Think about how we’d handle challenges in the nonprofit environment and prepare stories that demonstrate our critical thinking and adaptability. Role-playing with a friend could help us feel more confident!
Locations
- Bath
- Somerset
