Head of Community

As Head of Community you will drive the development and expansion of community services. You will lead innovative projects that support autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities, ensuring our services remain inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking.

Key responsibilities include:
 

• Leading the development and growth of community-based services, including life skills, befriending and mentoring, and employment support.
• Identifying new opportunities and innovative solutions to enhance service delivery.
• Building strategic partnerships with organisations that align with the organisation’s mission.
• Securing funding through grants, commissioning, and alternative revenue streams.
• Managing and developing a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth.
• Overseeing budget and resource management to ensure maximum impact.
• Engaging with service users, families, and stakeholders to co-produce and improve services.
• Representing the organisation at sector events, forums, and key stakeholder meetings.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference by shaping and leading community-based services that enable individuals to thrive.

About You:

We are looking for a strategic and dynamic leader with a passion for community development and inclusion.

Essential skills and experience include:

• Strong knowledge of the needs and experiences of autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities.
• Proven experience in designing and delivering community-based projects.
• Success in securing and managing diverse funding streams, including grants and contracts.
• Experience in scaling and expanding services within the charity sector.
• Strong leadership skills, with a background in line management and staff development.
• Excellent budget management and financial planning abilities.
• A strategic thinker, able to identify new opportunities and drive change.
• High-level communication and influencing skills to engage stakeholders and partners.
• A valid driver’s licence and access to a vehicle (required for travel across Essex).

About the Organisation

The charity is redefining care for a better future. Hamelin supports autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities to live their best lives and cultivate compassionate, equitable communities where they can achieve their aspirations.

Their work is guided by three core values:

• We are community – fostering belonging and inclusivity.
• We enhance lives – empowering individuals to thrive.
• We think differently – innovating and challenging traditional approaches.

You will be offered a flexible and supportive working environment, alongside benefits such as a Blue Light Card, Employee Assistance Programme, pension scheme, and training opportunities.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Community Services Manager, Head of Inclusion, Programme Manager – Social Care, Director of Community Engagement, or Service Development Lead, community Service Manager, area Service Manager, Care Manager, Community Inclusion Lead, etc.