We're looking for our next Managing Director. This is a rare opportunity to lead an award-winning international children's charity through its next chapter of growth.
Small Steps Project works alongside children and families living on landfill communities around the world, providing education, healthcare, nutrition and opportunities that help transform lives.
We're looking for an inspiring leader who can combine strategic thinking with practical action, build meaningful partnerships and lead a passionate team with empathy, ambition and purpose.
This is a 12-month fixed-term contract, with genuine potential for the role to become permanent.
A different kind of leadership opportunity. At Small Steps Project, we don't believe great leadership is measured by the number of hours spent behind a desk. We believe it's measured by impact.
That's why we've intentionally designed this as a flexible part-time executive role, enabling an exceptional leader to make a meaningful difference whilst balancing other professional or personal commitments.
Our founder has successfully led the charity whilst raising a family, and many of our Trustees also balance senior careers with family life. We understand that exceptional leaders don't all follow the same career path, and we're committed to creating a culture where talented people can thrive.
Whether you're looking for a three-day week, four shorter days or another flexible arrangement, we'd love to have that conversation.
What you'll be doing: You'll work closely with our Chair and Board of Trustees to lead the charity through its next phase of growth, providing strategic leadership across fundraising, partnerships, programme delivery, governance and organisational development.
You’ll inspire a passionate team, build meaningful relationships with supporters and partners, and help shape a future where even more children and families can take their own small steps towards brighter futures.
What we’re looking for we’re looking for someone who can:
- Lead with purpose, empathy and integrity.
- Build strong partnerships and secure sustainable income.
- Inspire and develop a small, passionate team.
- Think strategically whilst remaining hands‑on when needed.
- Represent the charity with confidence and credibility.
- Share our commitment to creating lasting change for children and families living in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
Whether you’re an experienced charity leader, a senior leader ready to step into your first executive role, or someone returning to leadership looking for greater flexibility, we’d love to hear from you.
What we’re offering:
- Part‑time executive leadership role (approximately 24–30 hours per week).
- Flexibility around how those hours are worked.
- Hybrid working.
- A supportive and engaged Board of Trustees.
- The opportunity to shape the future of an ambitious international charity.
- A passionate team committed to making a genuine difference.
- Genuine potential for the role to become permanent.
If you’re excited by the opportunity to lead with purpose, build meaningful partnerships and help create brighter futures for children who need it most, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply, please send your CV together with your responses to the following three questions:
- Why would you like to join Small Steps Project?
- What experience would you bring to this role?
- What excites you most about leading Small Steps Project through its next chapter?
Together, every small step creates lasting change.
Managing Director employer: Thewild
The Association for Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Disorders (AMEND) is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful opportunity to lead a dedicated charity focused on improving the lives of families affected by rare diseases. With a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, employees benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and the chance to make a significant impact in health policy and patient education. Located in Tonbridge, Kent, AMEND provides a unique environment for professional growth while advocating for those in need.
