Chief Operating Officer

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When a child loses someone important, the right support can make a life-changing difference.

For 25 years, Simon Says has been helping bereaved children and young people across Hampshire find understanding, friendship and hope after bereavement. Through our support groups, helpline, activities and work with schools, we help children and families through some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

We are now looking for an exceptional leader to guide the charity through its next stage of development.

Although the title is Chief Operating Officer,
this is the senior executive role in the charity
, reporting directly to the Board of Trustees through its Chair. You will have the opportunity to shape our future, lead a committed team of staff and volunteers, and ensure that more children and families benefit from our work.

What you will do

• Lead and inspire
  our staff and volunteers, building a supportive and effective organisation.
• Shape our future
  , working with trustees to develop and deliver our strategy.
• Ensure excellent services
  , maintaining high standards of care, safeguarding and measurable impact.
• Build our reputation and partnerships
  , strengthening relationships with supporters, funders, schools and other organisations.
• Run a sound organisation
  , with responsibility for financial management, governance, people and day-to-day operations.

Who we are looking for

You will be an experienced leader who combines sound judgement and organisational skills with warmth, empathy and a willingness to get involved.

You will be comfortable thinking strategically and dealing with practical challenges. You will know how to develop people, manage resources and build strong relationships.

Experience in the charity sector would be valuable but is not essential. We are equally interested in people who have led teams or organisations in other sectors and want to put their experience to work for an important cause.

Above all, you will share our determination that no child in Hampshire should have to face bereavement without the support they need.

Why join Simon Says?

This is a rare opportunity to lead an established, respected local charity. You will have genuine responsibility, the support of an engaged Board and the satisfaction of seeing the difference your leadership makes.