At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and HR for a vibrant youth charity, making a real impact on young lives.
- Company: Exciting new youth charity focused on empowering young people in Tilbury.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days holiday, free gym access, and bespoke training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a community-focused organisation committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of youth services and inspire a dedicated team.
- 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.
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 OnSide’s 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.
You may have experience in areas such as Operations, People, People and Operations, HR, Human Resources, Personnel, HR and Operations, Head of Operations, Head of People, Head of People and Operations, Head of HR, Head of Human Resources, Head of Personnel, Head of HR and Operations.
Head of Operations and People in Tilbury employer: Thames Gateway Youth Zone
Join a vibrant and community-focused youth charity in Tilbury, where your leadership will directly impact the lives of young people. With a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, we offer a supportive work culture that values personal growth through our Talent Academy and generous benefits, including 33 days of holiday and free gym access once the Youth Zone opens. This is not just a job; it's an opportunity to inspire change and create a safe, empowering environment for youth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations and People in Tilbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research their values, mission, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s all about making connections!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your leadership skills and ability to manage multiple teams. Practice answering common questions so you can shine when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations and People in Tilbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for working with young people and how your experiences have shaped you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in operations and HR management. Use examples that show how you've tackled challenges and made a difference in previous roles – we love a good story!
Show Your Leadership Skills:As a potential Head of Operations and People, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Share specific instances where you’ve led teams or projects successfully, and how you’ve inspired others to achieve their best.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the role early if we get a lot of applications, so hop onto our website and apply as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Gateway Youth Zone
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the Youth Zone and its mission. Understand their values, the community they serve, and the impact they aim to have on young people. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Operations and People, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing teams, supporting staff development, and ensuring a positive work environment. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully led teams and tackled challenges.
✨Prepare for HR and Compliance Questions
Given the focus on HR management and compliance in this role, brush up on relevant policies and procedures. Be ready to discuss your experience with recruitment, staff wellbeing, and compliance legislation. Highlight any specific initiatives you've implemented that improved HR functions or team dynamics.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Youth Work
This role is all about making a difference in the lives of young people. Share your passion for youth work and any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment. Whether it's volunteering, mentoring, or previous roles in similar environments, let your enthusiasm shine through!
