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Join the Soil Association's mission to transform food systems as a Local Programme Manager for an impactful public health programme
Overview
Salary
£34254 - £36000
Location
Home based in or close to West Northamptonshire
Expires
Expires at anytime
The Soil Association is a pioneering charity that champions organic farming, healthy food, and sustainable living. Since 1946, we've been at the forefront of advocating for a holistic approach to wellbeing, encompassing human health, environmental protection, and animal welfare. As a dedicated change-maker, we support innovative farming practices, community-based healthy eating initiatives, and are committed to expanding the organic market and safeguarding forests. This is a chance to contribute to meaningful change where it matters most.
- Lead a key public health programme focused on integrating the Food for Life approach in schools and nurseries.
- Manage the programme's delivery, support educational institutions, and act as a local FFL spokesperson.
- Enjoy a 12-month maternity cover role with the potential to drive significant health, economic, and environmental outcomes in West Northamptonshire.
- Demonstrated experience in leading and driving change initiatives.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships effectively.
- Substantial project management experience, including meeting targets, risk management, budget adherence, and team coordination.
- A passion for food and a commitment to promoting informed choices for the benefit of people and the planet.
To apply, click the 'apply now' button and follow the submission process. We evaluate applications upon receipt and may close the vacancy early, so don't delay. If you don't receive a confirmation email after applying, check your spam folder. Successful applicants will be notified about the interview stage. Direct queries and applications to [email removed - click apply for more details], but note that CVs or Cover Letters are not accepted.
About our organisation
The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation.
We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.
About the opportunity
West Northamptonshire’s Public Health department has commissioned Soil Association Food for Life (FFL) to deliver a three-year programme from May 2023 - April 2026. The programme works with schools and nurseries to embed the Food for Life approach to good food and drive positive outcomes for public health, the local economy and the environment. Food for Life aims to change the food environment and food culture of schools and nurseries, with the goal of driving positive dietary change and maximising the health and wellbeing benefits of food. We are looking for a Local Programme Manager to lead the programme delivery for a 12 month period of maternity cover. You will be responsible for managing the programme and directly supporting schools and nurseries as well as being the local spokesperson for FFL with local networks, partners and the Council.
About you
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience of leading and inspiring change
- Is approachable with excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills
- Has substantial project/programme management experience, including: delivering to targets; risk management and adaptation; managing the contribution of others to your project; adhering to budgets and deadlines
- Is passionate about food with a desire to share that passion with other people so they can make informed choices that benefit themselves, the local economy and the planet.
If this sounds like you, we want to hear from you! See the Job Description for full details about the role.
Commitment to Safeguarding
The Soil Association and FFL are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults that we work with. In accordance with this commitment we ensure that we follow a thorough and safe recruitment and selection process for all roles that work with children. This includes checking against the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) where appropriate. Please note that if you are successful in your application to the role any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
Our Benefits
We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including:
- 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
- Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service
- Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce
- Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives
- Family friendly policies and flexible working
- Cycle to work scheme
- Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce
Hours
30 hours per week
12 month Fixed term contract (maternity cover)
Location
Home based in or close to West Northamptonshire
