At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a community-focused charitable trust and oversee impactful programmes.
- Company: Besson Street Trust, dedicated to creating an inclusive community in New Cross Gate.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to shape community development.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to expand services with a new community centre on the horizon.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and strong partnership development skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
About Besson Street Trust
Besson Street Trust (formerly The New Cross Gate Trust) has worked for more than 18 years to create a connected, inclusive and ambitious community in New Cross Gate. Based in the Besson Street Community Garden, we deliver a range of services supporting the health, wellbeing, and development of local residents. With a focus on collaboration and sustainability, we interact with more than 600 beneficiaries annually and support numerous community groups in the local area. Our activities are funded primarily by rental income from an endowment portfolio of residential and commercial properties, investments, and supplemented through fundraising.
This is a pivotal moment for the Trust; our long standing Centre Manager is stepping down after 21 years both serving the community of New Cross Gate. She has overseen the development of the vibrant oasis that is our Besson Street Community Garden and the services that we deliver to our local communities. We are growing and evolving. The neighbouring Besson Street development, part of which will deliver a community centre to be run by the Trust, provides a welcome opportunity to expand our support for the community.
About the Role
Managing Director (0.6 FTE) Besson Street Community Garden, Southeast London (Hybrid by arrangement) £36,000 (0.6 FTE)
The Besson Street Trust is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to become our Managing Director, leading our community-focused charitable trust delivering impactful programmes and overseeing the management of the residential and commercial property portfolio, income from which underpins our charitable activities. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of the Trust and its activities, including the anticipated opportunity for the development of a new community centre on a neighbouring site, and the expansion of our charitable activities.
You will work closely with the Board of Trustees to drive strategy, secure additional funding, and ensure strong governance, while leading a small, committed team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading strategy, business planning, and organisational development
- Managing senior staff and fostering a positive organisational culture
- Building partnerships with funders, local authorities, and community organisations
- Overseeing financial sustainability and asset strategy
- Leading fundraising and income diversification
We are looking for someone who:
- Has senior leadership experience in a relevant sector
- Is confident working with Boards and governance structures
- Has a strong track record in partnership and funding development
- Combines strategic thinking with hands-on leadership
Managing Director employer: The New Cross Gate Trust
Besson Street Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a connected and inclusive community in New Cross Gate. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, sustainability, and employee growth, we offer a supportive work culture where your leadership can make a tangible impact on local residents' health and wellbeing. Join us in this pivotal moment as we expand our services and develop new community initiatives, all while enjoying the unique benefits of working in a vibrant community garden setting in Southeast London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the community and industry. Attend local events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the role! When you get that interview, make sure to express why you’re excited about the Managing Director position at Besson Street Trust. Share your vision for the community and how you can contribute to its growth and sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities listed in the job description. Be ready to discuss your leadership style, fundraising successes, and how you’ve built partnerships in the past.
✨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 great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing, make sure you’ve read through the job description carefully. Understand what Besson Street Trust is all about and what they’re looking for in a Managing Director. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill.
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on relevant leadership roles and achievements that align with the Trust’s mission. Use specific examples to demonstrate your strategic thinking and hands-on leadership skills. We want to see how you can make an impact!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can connect with the community and lead with passion. Don’t be afraid to share your motivations and why you’re excited about this opportunity at Besson Street Trust.
Apply Through Our Website:Once you’ve polished your application, make sure to submit it through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Besson Street Trust!
How to prepare for a job interview at The New Cross Gate Trust
✨Know the Trust Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly research Besson Street Trust. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role and the community they serve.
✨Prepare Your Leadership Examples
As a Managing Director, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've led teams, managed change, or developed strategies in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Skills
Since fundraising is a key responsibility, be ready to discuss your past successes in securing funding. Highlight any innovative approaches you've taken and how you've built partnerships with funders or community organisations. This will illustrate your capability to drive financial sustainability.
✨Engage with the Board Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with how boards operate, especially in a charitable context. Be prepared to discuss how you would work with the Board of Trustees at Besson Street Trust. Show that you understand governance structures and can navigate them effectively while fostering a positive organisational culture.
