For over 200 years, Right There has been at the forefront of supporting people and communities across Scotland. Each year, we work alongside almost 4,000 children, families and individuals affected by poverty, homelessness, addiction and fractured relationships.

We believe everyone deserves an equal chance to create a safe and supportive place to call home, not just a roof, but somewhere they feel protected, accepted and able to rebuild their lives. Every journey is different, so we tailor our response to the individual, challenge stereotypes and work without judgement.

As we respond to a national housing emergency and enter our next strategic planning cycle, we are seeking an exceptional Chair of the Board of Trustees to help shape the organisation’s next chapter. This is a pivotal leadership role, providing clear direction to the Board, strengthening governance, and supporting the Chief Executive to deliver Right There’s charitable and strategic objectives.

You will be a senior strategic leader with a strong track record in growth, transformation and governance, able to build trusted relationships, influence effectively, and provide constructive challenge. Whilst previous board experience is preferable, we also welcome candidates with senior leadership or executive board experience who are seeking a trustee role for the first time,

Right There is a unique organisation, full of committed people inspired by our values and the mission to create positive change. As Chair, you will play a central role in supporting a highly motivated and passionate Board of Trustees and senior leadership team to safeguard the organisation’s vision, strengthen its impact, and ensure it thrives for the future.

We help young people to build life-long belief in themselves, supporting them to take on their own challenges, follow their own passions and discover talents they never knew they had. Because when you prove yourself that you’re ready for anything nothing can hold you back.

Do you want to be part of that?

The Operations Manager is responsible for managing a team of geographically dispersed Operations Officers to support the operational delivery and development of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) across Scotland.

Operations Officers directly support a variety of Licensed Organisations (LOs) comprising mainly of schools, but they also work with other organisations including colleges, local authorities, charities, pupil referral units, youth groups and young offender institutions. The Operations Manager role involves managing, coaching, and supporting Operations Officers to undertake their role and building strong partnerships to increase DofE’s engagement across communities in Scotland.

As a DofE country team, our focus is on building capacity within our licensed organisations to support more young people to engage with DofE and on identifying and stewarding strong partnerships within local communities to increase engagement with DofE, particularly within those communities who face barriers to participation. Line managed by the Senior Operations Manager, the Operations Manager is an active and engaged member of the Scotland Team, which is chaired by the Scotland Director. The Operations Management team is responsible for delivering on the Scotland business plan and strategic goals in line with UK wide national strategy.

The role will be field-based and when not attending meetings, employees will work from home. You will need to have an appropriate home office set up and live within or near the portfolio area.

What we are looking for:

We are looking to recruit a dynamic, proactive, and effective team player with extensive people management experience to join the Scotland team. You will report to the Senior Operations Manager and will be responsible for the day-to-day management of your Operations team and delivery of the DofE Scotland business plan. The role will also involve contributing to national working groups to support our charity wide strategic goals.

You will be a passionate advocate for the work of the DofE and be driven to realise the charity’s strategic ambition.

Benefits

We offer excellent staff benefits including a generous pension contribution, an employee assistance programme, healthcare cash plan and volunteer leave. Also, 25 days holiday, plus Bank Holidays and an additional 3 days paid leave between Christmas and the New Year. Buy additional annual leave, benefits discount website, death in service benefit 4 x salary, incapacity benefit, generous family leave and sick leave.

The DofE are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. All successful applicants will be required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. (e.g. DBS/PVG or similar), including references covering any gaps of employment/education, confirm eligibility to work in the UK and complete a health check.

**The geographical allowance is based on a member of staff having a home or office-based postcode within 30 miles (as the crow flies) from Charing Cross, WC2N 5HS. The allowance is 7% capped at £4,000 per annum.

About The Duke of Edinburgh's Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a renowned charity that empowers young people by offering life-changing programs. With a vision of Youth Without Limits, their aim is to provide over a million young individuals, particularly those facing marginalisation, the opportunity to participate in their transformative initiatives within the next five years. By supporting young people in acquiring new skills, overcoming obstacles, and building confidence and resilience, they promote personal growth and development.

The organisation operates by licensing and supporting various institutions like schools, colleges, youth groups, and hospitals to run their programs. They prioritise the safety of participants and have taken necessary measures to ensure it. Additionally, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award has an Executive Leadership Team that works together to expand their provision and a team of Trustees who set the strategic direction for the charity.

With an international reach in over 130 countries and territories, the DofE is part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, which aims to provide opportunities to young people globally. The history of the DofE traces back to 1956 when it was initially launched for boys. Over the years, it has evolved and now offers programs for young people aged 14 to 24, focusing on four key sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition. The impact of the DofE has been astounding, with millions of young people benefiting from the program. Even during challenging times like the coronavirus pandemic, the dedication and contributions of DofE participants have been remarkable.

As the UK recovers, the DofE continues to support and empower young people, playing a vital role in the national effort. With a rich history and a commitment to youth development, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award remains a beacon of opportunity and growth for young individuals across the globe.