Jobs in Aberdeenshire

Lead a respected charity - Change lives - Create a Legacy

Advocacy North East (ANE) is an independent charity dedicated to ensuring that individuals who may be disadvantaged or at risk of exclusion have a voice in decisions that affect their lives.

For over 25 years we have supported people (and their carers) affected by mental illness, learning disability and problematic substance use to understand their rights, make informed choices and have their views heard in matters relating to their health and care.

As our leader prepares to retire, we are seeking an exceptional individual to become our Executive Manager and lead the organisation into its next chapter.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a highly respected advocacy organisation with a strong reputation for independence, professionalism and person-centred support.

About the Role

This post is deemed to be a Regulated Role with Vulnerable Adults and Children and therefore recruitment is subject to satisfactory PVG Scheme Membership and references.

Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Manager will provide strategic and operational leadership across the organisation.

You will be responsible for:

• Delivering the organisation's strategic vision and objectives
• Leading and developing a skilled and committed staff team
• Ensuring the highest standards of advocacy practice, service quality and safeguarding
• Maintaining strong governance, risk management and regulatory compliance
• Managing budgets, contracts and organisational resources effectively
• Developing sustainable funding and income opportunities
• Building productive relationships with commissioners, partners, funders and stakeholders
• Acting as an ambassador for Advocacy North East locally and nationally
• Promoting a positive culture based on inclusion, collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement

You will work closely with the Board to ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable, strategically focused and responsive to the changing needs of the communities we serve.

About You

We are looking for a values-driven leader who combines strategic vision with practical management experience. You will be:

• An effective strategic thinker who can balance operational delivery with long-term organisational sustainability.
• A collaborative leader who can build strong relationships with staff, volunteers, the Board, commissioners, stakeholders and the community we serve.
• A confident decision-maker who demonstrates integrity, accountability and sound judgement.
• An individual with a genuine passion for empowering people to have their voices heard.

You should have a strong track record in organisational management, strategic development, financial management and people leadership.

Experience within the advocacy, third sector, health, social care or community sectors would be advantageous but is not essential.

Why Join Advocacy North East?

This is far more than a management role. It is an opportunity to:

• Lead an organisation that changes lives every day
• Influence the future development of independent advocacy services across Scotland
• Build meaningful partnerships that improve outcomes for marginalised people
• Create a lasting legacy within a respected and trusted charity

If you are an inspiring leader who shares our commitment to independence, empowerment, inclusion and respect, we would love to hear from you.

South West Aberdeenshire Citizens Advice Bureau (SWACAB), based in Westhill, Aberdeenshire, is an independent and innovative advice organisation providing holistic advice and support to local people.

The postholder will be responsible for the quality of advice, standard of service provided for debt advice, including multiple debts, income maximisation through the benefit system and other means and debt remedies/legal routes to debt resolution.

Ideally, you will have previous Citizens Advice Bureau experience and qualifications (MATRICS) in debt advice and have worked to National Standards (Scottish Legal Aid Board accredited). We are looking for someone with prior case management experience and who can operate to Financial Conduct Authority standards. Training will be available for the successful candidate.

Employee benefits

SWACAB offers excellent terms and conditions, including a total of 31 days leave (pro rata) and a pension scheme with an 5% employer contribution. SWACAB is an inclusive employer considering flexible working arrangements where appropriate. For more details of some of the other benefits on offer to our employees, please contact enquiries@swacab.org.uk