Project Administrator, Headstart

What is Headstart?

Headstart is an ambitious, multi-partner programme transforming headwater restoration across England, developing a new approach to freshwater conservation which capitalises on the exceptional benefits of working with small waters. Co‑led by Anglian Water and Freshwater Habitats Trust the project is working with seven water companies, a range of conservation organisations, regulators, researchers, landowners and delivery partners. The programme is testing practical, large‑scale approaches to improving biodiversity, water quality, flow and wider ecosystem services across six demonstration catchments in England.

The central objective of the project is to create a new policy and regulatory environment which capitalises on the potential of working in headwater catchments. We anticipate having a significant influence on the evolving policy framework for the water environment, including through engagement with the Clean Water Bill and associated reforms. The project will also create the water sector’s first dedicated headwater decision‑support toolkit, helping organisations target upstream interventions where they can deliver the greatest environmental and value‑for‑money impact.

Headstart is designed to move headwater restoration from small‑scale pilots into mainstream planning and long‑term investments, making this a rare opportunity to contribute to a nationally‑significant programme which will have lasting influence on the future of water management.

This role provides essential administrative and financial support to ensure the smooth running of the Headstart programme. You will support financial tracking, administration, governance and coordination across partners.

• Provide day‑to‑day administrative support to the Headstart programme, ensuring activities are well organised and delivered efficiently.
• Maintain programme documentation, meeting records, action logs and filing systems to ensure information is accurate, accessible and up to date.
• Support the coordination of meetings, workshops and events, including scheduling, preparation of materials and note‑taking.
• Assist with tracking programme milestones, deliverables and actions to support overall delivery.

• Support the monitoring of programme budgets, expenditure and financial records, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Process invoices, expenses and financial documentation in line with organisational procedures.
• Assist with maintaining clear records of financial commitments, procurement and contract spend.
• Support preparation of financial reports and updates for internal teams, partners and funders.
• Help maintain audit trails and ensure compliance with funding requirements and organisational processes.

• Assist with procurement activities, including obtaining quotes, preparing documentation and tracking approvals.
• Maintain records of contracts, agreements and supplier information.
• Support contract administration to ensure documentation remains complete and up to date.

• Support programme governance processes by coordinating reporting schedules and preparing documentation for meetings.
• Assist in compiling progress reports, briefings and supporting materials for governance groups and partners.
• Help ensure that programme records, decisions and risks are clearly documented and accessible.

• Act as a point of contact for administrative queries from partners and stakeholders.
• Support effective communication across the programme by ensuring timely sharing of information and updates.
• Assist in maintaining positive working relationships across a wide range of partners and collaborators.

• Develop a strong understanding of FHT’s strategy for freshwater biodiversity conservation and reflect the organisation’s priorities and values in your work.
• Maintain and build your knowledge of relevant conservation practice and evidence, with a particular focus on fresh waters and associated habitats.
• Take responsibility for your own health and safety and contribute to safe working practices…