At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage community programmes to reduce inequality and support local organisations.
- Company: Join CAVA, a dynamic organisation dedicated to community and social enterprise support.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and an employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and a passion for equality and community engagement.
Warwickshire & Solihull Community and Voluntary Action is recruiting for the Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull) at £44,088 per annum pro rata for 30 hours per week. This is a permanent position subject to funding, with a hybrid/office location at The Core, Solihull, and regular travel across Solihull and occasionally Warwickshire and Birmingham.
About CAVA: CAVA provides infrastructure support to the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise sector across Warwickshire and Solihull. CAVA works in partnership with organisations in Birmingham and Coventry, collaborating to reduce inequality. CAVA operates as a Volunteer Centre and delivers projects that support social and community action through local engagement.
The Area Programme and Development Manager will work as part of the Management Team and be a key ambassador for the organisation and the wider VCFSE. They will provide leadership and accountability for CAVA's work, overseeing and growing its position and portfolio as the VCFSE Infrastructure organisation for both Solihull and Warwickshire. The manager will also work in partnership with the Board of Trustees on strategy and governance matters.
The Opportunity: The Area Programme and Development Manager will manage CAVA’s Solihull portfolio, which is evolving and integrating across the Borough. They will lead and shape CAVA’s presence in Solihull, working strategically alongside the Board and Management Team to guide the organisation into its next era of growth and delivery. The manager will represent voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise groups, providing a strong voice for the sector while collaborating with partners from the Public, NHS, and the wider Integrated Care System (ICS).
Summary of Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership and Management of the Solihull programme portfolio and CAVA Strategy
- Line Management of a small, focused team
- Strategy, Planning and Control in line with need, compliance, and business planning
- Financial Management including setting and managing budgets and risk
- External Representation and Partnership Working
- Income Generation and Growth through writing tenders and funding applications
- Office Management in line with regulatory policies and procedures
- Corporate Support and Team Participation in wider CAVA activities
What We're Looking For: We seek a dynamic and self-motivated individual with evidence of:
- Strong programme leadership and management experience
- A strong analytical eye for detail supporting contract management
- Ideally, a background in the VCFSE sector
- Confident communication skills at all levels
- Collaborative skills as part of a supportive Senior Management Team
- A commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and reducing inequality
- A ‘can do’ approach and problem-solving skills
- Experience in writing tenders and funding applications
Values: All employees are expected to demonstrate CAVA’s values by working positively as part of a team, delivering high-quality services, and promoting an ethos that values and encourages equality and diversity.
To apply for this role, you must hold a driving licence and have access to a car for work purposes. Flexibility to undertake occasional work outside contracted hours is essential. A competitive salary and benefits package is offered, including enrolment in an employee assistance programme.
If you think you fit the brief for this exciting role, please view the job opportunity on our website and submit your CV, accompanied by a covering letter outlining your interest in the job and what you could contribute, focusing on the criteria detailed in the job description and person specification. Letters should be no more than 3 sides and if typed, no smaller than size 11 font.
Closing Date: Monday 29th June 2026 at 10am
Interviews: Monday 13th July 2026
No agencies please. WCAVA is an equal opportunities employer ‘Putting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion into Practice’.
Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull) employer: Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action
CAVA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Solihull that empowers employees to make a meaningful impact within the community. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, CAVA provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development, alongside a competitive salary and benefits package, including access to an employee assistance programme. Join us in shaping the future of the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise sector while working closely with passionate individuals dedicated to reducing inequality.
Contact Details:
Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the VCFSE sector. Attend local events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at CAVA. A friendly chat can open doors!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research CAVA’s projects and values so you can show how your experience aligns with their mission. Think of examples from your past that demonstrate your leadership and management skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for community work! When you get the chance to speak, let your enthusiasm for reducing inequality and supporting the VCFSE sector shine through. It’s all about making a genuine connection.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at CAVA and contributing to their important work.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure you thoroughly understand what we're looking for. The job description is your best friend here, so take notes on key responsibilities and required skills to tailor your application.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this role and how your experience aligns with our needs. Keep it focused and engaging, and remember to highlight your passion for the VCFSE sector.
Tailor Your CV:Don't just send out the same CV for every job. Make sure to tweak it to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Area Programme and Development Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any work in the VCFSE sector.
Follow Our Application Guidelines:We’ve got some specific guidelines for applications, like keeping your cover letter to three sides and using a readable font size. Stick to these rules to show us you can follow instructions and pay attention to detail!
How to prepare for a job interview at Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into CAVA's mission and values. Understand their role in the VCFSE sector and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your background to their needs.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As an Area Programme and Development Manager, you'll need strong leadership skills. Prepare examples from your past where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight your ability to manage budgets and contracts, as these are key responsibilities for the role.
✨Be Ready for Collaboration Questions
Expect questions about your collaborative skills. Think of instances where you've worked with diverse teams or stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you can effectively represent the voice of the VCFSE sector while working alongside public and private partners.
✨Prepare Your Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about CAVA’s future projects, their approach to reducing inequality, and how they measure success. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.
