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: Competitive salary, flexible working, and employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and supportive environment.
- 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.
The predicted salary is between 44088 - 44088 £ per year.
Warwickshire & Solihull Community and Voluntary Action is recruiting for the Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull) position. The role offers a salary of £44,088 per annum pro rata for 30 hours per week on a permanent basis, subject to funding. This is a hybrid/office role based at The Core, Solihull, with 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 believe you fit the criteria for this exciting role, please view the job opportunity on our website and submit your CV along with a covering letter outlining your interest in the position and what you could contribute. Letters should be no more than 3 sides and typed in 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.
Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull) employer: Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action
Warwickshire & Solihull Community and Voluntary Action (CAVA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that empowers employees to make a meaningful impact in 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. Located in Solihull, employees enjoy a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while engaging with local partners to drive social change.
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. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for community work! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and ideas on how to reduce inequality. Let them see your commitment to making a difference in Solihull and beyond.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching CAVA’s projects and values. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their mission. This shows you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨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 the role and want to be part of the CAVA family.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Programme and Development Manager (Solihull)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Area Programme and Development Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in programme leadership and management, especially within the VCFSE sector. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
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 you can contribute to CAVA's mission. Keep it focused on the criteria in the job description and make it personal – we love to see your passion!
Be Concise and Clear:When writing your application, keep it concise and clear. Stick to the 3-page limit for your cover letter and use a readable font size (at least 11). We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the point!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application reaches us directly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at CAVA. We can't wait to hear from you!
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 to Collaborate
CAVA values collaboration across various sectors. Think of instances where you've worked with different stakeholders, especially in community settings. Be prepared to discuss how you can foster partnerships and represent the voice of the VCFSE sector effectively.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful 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.
