Job Description We are looking for someone who is angry at injustice, who really believes in the ability of ordinary people to make change, who cares deeply about the institutions that are dotted across our neighbourhoods - the churches, mosques, schools, charities, youth groups, etc. - and who is motivated to share the craft of Broad-Based Organising with others. If that is you, we'd love you to join our growing team of organisers across the South-East of England and, more broadly, across the UK! We hope to work with you to build on already existing work in Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend and support the building of new work across Essex. Citizens UK Citizens UK is the UK's biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems. Citizens Essex is a relatively-young Chapter of Citizens UK, covering 3 main geographical areas: Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend. Our ideal candidate for the position of Senior Organiser has high emotional intelligence, is curious about other people, politically astute, and is fundamentally relational. They will have a track record of making things happen, be able to work with a high degree of independence, are comfortable with uncertainty, and able to think strategically as well as operationally. They will be interested in understanding and working with different sectors and types of organisations, as well as engaging with people from a wide range of faiths and cultures which are different to their own. They are an excellent communicator. They will learn and teach the craft of broad-based organising and be interested in receiving feedback to support their own development and growth. They will build and maintain relationships with a large number of leaders across the County and coach them to take action together on a common agenda. Our ideal candidate will have a strong track record in enabling leaders from schools/colleges/universities and faith institutions to deliver on issues of social justice. Community Organising Through our theory of social change, called community organising, we train thousands of everyday people to lead change in their communities, equipping them with the skills to hold politicians and other powerholders to account. We are made up of 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents' groups, health practices, charities, trade unions and other civil society organisations. Purpose At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. There are various project roles and operational, communication, finance and HR roles that support the organisation and project staff and organisers to deliver on this mission and work. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. Main Responsibilities A Senior Organiser is mastering the craft of community organising and taking increasing responsibility for developing major campaigns, managing budgets and managing staff. They operate with a high degree of independence and are significant contributors to CUK-wide functions such as training. Senior Organisers model the broad-based community organising methodology in their work including the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. You will bring communities together to drive change both locally, regionally, and nationally. This role will work closely with local civic institutions, such as churches, mosques, schools, universities, unions and other community groups to: develop the leadership of people within those organisations - our 'leaders' who lead the campaigns we work on help them identify the changes they want to see and create strategies to win those changes strengthen institutions' own abilities to achieve their missions. This includes listening to members of the community to find common issues, engaging local decision-makers through meetings, and planning in-person 'actions', where you might hold those in power to account. All of this work is underpinned by the knowledge that everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. This work will be rooted locally, but you will be a part of a bigger national drive to make change alongside diverse local alliances across the UK. In Essex, the work is currently focusing on the first Mayoral Election for the County but you will also work on other campaign priorities that are developed through the institutions you work with. Working as a Senior Organiser for Citizens UK, reporting to Sebastien Chapleau, Regional Supervisor for the South of England and Wales, your main responsibilities will include: Build relational power to further the goals of CUK: Develop a comprehensive power analysis for Essex, particularly as the County will elect its first Mayor in May 2028 Develop and grow strong working relationships with power players at a county-wide level or sector, including journalists; taking the initiative to establish new relationships as required Conduct one-to-one relational meetings in order to develop relationships with leaders; demonstrating timely and effective agitation to stimulate action Work effectively with local journalists and media outlets to further CUK's goals Develop a strategic plan to enhance people's participation in public life as well as enhance non-partisan political and democratic practices across Essex. Develop a strategy built on an acute sense of how communities and institutions behave within, and across, the cultures and contexts of Essex. Develop a plan that enables clear and impactful cross-institutional collaboration across Essex. Develop a clear strategy to address the shared interests between TELCO and Citizens Essex Leaders (eg around the Lower Thames Valley, overlaps between RC and CoE Dioceses in East London and Essex, etc.). Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good: Work with and learn from the best veteran leaders on key actions Play a central role in the development of primary leaders; creating plans with them that are carried out Nominate leaders for training on the core taster curriculum and for National Training Strengthen institutions and develop BBOs: Organise diverse alliances to work together locally but, most importantly, at chapter level Create/develop a leadership team of positional leaders and representatives from all institutions at chapter and local levels that are successful in combining action with growth. Work closely with the co-chairs to develop leader-led strategies. Design organising strategies that combine internal & external action Ensure that core teams are developed across all institutions across the broad-based alliance to ensure that organising - rather than servicing - remains the top priority. Support leaders through the Cycle of Action to create change: Take the staff lead on chapter-wide actions and campaigns; aiming to achieve significant wins at chapter/campaign level Facilitate Issues Workshops and Delegates Assemblies and, in the run up to May 2028, a Mayoral Accountability Assembly Develop strategies for significant impact; with comprehensive plans & tactics Support actions, ensuring publicity, and facilitating high level negotiations Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions Contribute to CUK's financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management: Recruit new dues paying institutions; negotiating annual membership dues and letters of understanding as required Recruit and work with large organisations; ensuring that they invest into the alliance and not solely internal delivery Contribute to fundraising by securing £75k-£90k per annum overall, at least half of which should be 'hard money' from retention and recruitment of member institutions and strategic partners. Contribute to effective teamwork: Line manage other Organisers in Essex Attract and help recruit new Organisers . click apply for full job details
Jun 13, 2026
Full time
Job Description We are looking for someone who is angry at injustice, who really believes in the ability of ordinary people to make change, who cares deeply about the institutions that are dotted across our neighbourhoods - the churches, mosques, schools, charities, youth groups, etc. - and who is motivated to share the craft of Broad-Based Organising with others. If that is you, we'd love you to join our growing team of organisers across the South-East of England and, more broadly, across the UK! We hope to work with you to build on already existing work in Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend and support the building of new work across Essex. Citizens UK Citizens UK is the UK's biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems. Citizens Essex is a relatively-young Chapter of Citizens UK, covering 3 main geographical areas: Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend. Our ideal candidate for the position of Senior Organiser has high emotional intelligence, is curious about other people, politically astute, and is fundamentally relational. They will have a track record of making things happen, be able to work with a high degree of independence, are comfortable with uncertainty, and able to think strategically as well as operationally. They will be interested in understanding and working with different sectors and types of organisations, as well as engaging with people from a wide range of faiths and cultures which are different to their own. They are an excellent communicator. They will learn and teach the craft of broad-based organising and be interested in receiving feedback to support their own development and growth. They will build and maintain relationships with a large number of leaders across the County and coach them to take action together on a common agenda. Our ideal candidate will have a strong track record in enabling leaders from schools/colleges/universities and faith institutions to deliver on issues of social justice. Community Organising Through our theory of social change, called community organising, we train thousands of everyday people to lead change in their communities, equipping them with the skills to hold politicians and other powerholders to account. We are made up of 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents' groups, health practices, charities, trade unions and other civil society organisations. Purpose At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. There are various project roles and operational, communication, finance and HR roles that support the organisation and project staff and organisers to deliver on this mission and work. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. Main Responsibilities A Senior Organiser is mastering the craft of community organising and taking increasing responsibility for developing major campaigns, managing budgets and managing staff. They operate with a high degree of independence and are significant contributors to CUK-wide functions such as training. Senior Organisers model the broad-based community organising methodology in their work including the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. You will bring communities together to drive change both locally, regionally, and nationally. This role will work closely with local civic institutions, such as churches, mosques, schools, universities, unions and other community groups to: develop the leadership of people within those organisations - our 'leaders' who lead the campaigns we work on help them identify the changes they want to see and create strategies to win those changes strengthen institutions' own abilities to achieve their missions. This includes listening to members of the community to find common issues, engaging local decision-makers through meetings, and planning in-person 'actions', where you might hold those in power to account. All of this work is underpinned by the knowledge that everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. This work will be rooted locally, but you will be a part of a bigger national drive to make change alongside diverse local alliances across the UK. In Essex, the work is currently focusing on the first Mayoral Election for the County but you will also work on other campaign priorities that are developed through the institutions you work with. Working as a Senior Organiser for Citizens UK, reporting to Sebastien Chapleau, Regional Supervisor for the South of England and Wales, your main responsibilities will include: Build relational power to further the goals of CUK: Develop a comprehensive power analysis for Essex, particularly as the County will elect its first Mayor in May 2028 Develop and grow strong working relationships with power players at a county-wide level or sector, including journalists; taking the initiative to establish new relationships as required Conduct one-to-one relational meetings in order to develop relationships with leaders; demonstrating timely and effective agitation to stimulate action Work effectively with local journalists and media outlets to further CUK's goals Develop a strategic plan to enhance people's participation in public life as well as enhance non-partisan political and democratic practices across Essex. Develop a strategy built on an acute sense of how communities and institutions behave within, and across, the cultures and contexts of Essex. Develop a plan that enables clear and impactful cross-institutional collaboration across Essex. Develop a clear strategy to address the shared interests between TELCO and Citizens Essex Leaders (eg around the Lower Thames Valley, overlaps between RC and CoE Dioceses in East London and Essex, etc.). Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good: Work with and learn from the best veteran leaders on key actions Play a central role in the development of primary leaders; creating plans with them that are carried out Nominate leaders for training on the core taster curriculum and for National Training Strengthen institutions and develop BBOs: Organise diverse alliances to work together locally but, most importantly, at chapter level Create/develop a leadership team of positional leaders and representatives from all institutions at chapter and local levels that are successful in combining action with growth. Work closely with the co-chairs to develop leader-led strategies. Design organising strategies that combine internal & external action Ensure that core teams are developed across all institutions across the broad-based alliance to ensure that organising - rather than servicing - remains the top priority. Support leaders through the Cycle of Action to create change: Take the staff lead on chapter-wide actions and campaigns; aiming to achieve significant wins at chapter/campaign level Facilitate Issues Workshops and Delegates Assemblies and, in the run up to May 2028, a Mayoral Accountability Assembly Develop strategies for significant impact; with comprehensive plans & tactics Support actions, ensuring publicity, and facilitating high level negotiations Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions Contribute to CUK's financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management: Recruit new dues paying institutions; negotiating annual membership dues and letters of understanding as required Recruit and work with large organisations; ensuring that they invest into the alliance and not solely internal delivery Contribute to fundraising by securing £75k-£90k per annum overall, at least half of which should be 'hard money' from retention and recruitment of member institutions and strategic partners. Contribute to effective teamwork: Line manage other Organisers in Essex Attract and help recruit new Organisers . click apply for full job details
We are looking for someone who is angry at injustice, who really believes in the ability of ordinary people to make change, and who is motivated to learn the craft of Broad-Based Organising. If that is you, we'd love you to join our growing team of 11 organisers in South London! We hope to work with you to build on already existing work in Greenwich and support the building of new work in Bexley and Bromley. Citizens UK Citizens UK is the UK's biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems. Community Organising We train thousands of people each year to lead change in their communities, through the craft of Broad-based Community Organising, equipping them and their institutions with the skills to hold powerholders to account. We organise with 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK, and in South London Citizens we organise in ten boroughs with almost 100 member organisations. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents' groups, health practices, charities, migrant hubs and other civil society organisations. Purpose At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. Main Responsibilities The principal responsibility of an Associate Organiser is their own development: learning the craft of Community Organising under the guidance of an experienced Community Organiser. You will work intensively with a small number of member organisations under close supervision, growing your experience, skill and responsibility incrementally. An Associate Organiser is working towards becoming a competent practitioner of the craft of broad-based community organising methodology, and focuses on the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. This role is particularly to organise with Be Well Organisations in Greenwich, Bexley and Bromley. Be Well Organisations may be faith, education, or community institutions, tackling isolation and poor mental health by: 1. Building relationships, 2. Signposting and offering practical support, and 3. Taking action on structural and systemic inequalities and injustices. But you may also work on other campaign priorities and responsibilities as needed across the team. We are looking for people who are angry about injustice, who believe ordinary people have the power to make change, and who are motivated to learn the craft of Broad-based Organising. The role is hugely varied, and involves working across the two boroughs, in different institutions and context, and with a lot of independence. Working as an Associate Organiser in South London Citizens, your main responsibilities will include: Build relational power to further the goals of CUK: Actively participate in the development of a comprehensive power analysis appropriate to the desired sphere of influence for each project/assignment Establish working relationships with identified leaders and demonstrate ability to move them into action, including as part of the wider alliance; taking the initiative to establish new relationships Conduct 15-20 weekly one-to-ones to develop relationships with leaders and understand their concerns. Tell a wide range of Community Organising stories effectively to influence others and achieve CUK's goals Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good: Identify and discern actual and potential leaders with the passion and ability to drive change Proactively create opportunities for leaders to develop, especially tertiary or new leaders; nominate for training on the core taster curriculum Successfully deliver training workshops in local institutions and on the core taster curriculum at a local level Strengthen institutions and develop Broad Based Organisations (networks of community organisations): Ensure good understanding of the basic interests and traditions of typical member institutions Organise several Be Well Organisations to participate more fully in the alliance Support pre-existing core teams and create/develop new core teams to provide leadership Support leaders through the Cycle of Action in order to create change: Support leaders in running listening campaigns Organise actions; demonstrating increasing independence in working without the need for close supervision Take the lead in supporting Be Well Organisations through the cycle of action Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions Contribute to CUK's financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management: Recruit new dues paying institutions; work together with a more senior Organiser to negotiate annual membership fees and letters of understanding Contribute substantively to fundraising to ensure the sustainability of the work Liaise with the Finance & Operations team to update the membership database and ensure timely invoicing and fee collection Contribute to effective teamwork: Be proactive concerning personal professional development and wellbeing; i.e. by reading widely, developing a healthy work-life balance and demonstrating ability to reflect on own organising craft & improve on self-identified weaknesses Demonstrate ability to work effectively with colleagues and participate in a team Produce all required reports and follow CUK's procedures on time and to the required standards Participate in the development of the craft of Community Organising and play a role in the Guild of COs: Schedule an average of at least three 1-2-1 relational meetings into your daily schedule as a core part of your professional practice Commit 10 working days pa (pro rata for part-time staff) to the preparation, delivery and evaluation of Citizens UK National Community Leadership Training or other local or regional trainings Participate in fortnightly learning sessions with the wider SLC team Personal Specification (D) Desirable, (E) Essential Experience: Previous campaign experience (D) Evidence of having acted in a leadership role with peers or in local community activities (e.g. organising a club or project, playing a role in a faith institution) (E) Experience of project management; evidence of having delivered work on time and to standard (D) Able to demonstrate previous experience of 'learning by doing' in a work or project environment; evidence of being open to feedback and comfortably coachable (E) Key skills and knowledge: Excellent interpersonal awareness - ability to listen well and appreciate a viewpoint or opinion that is different from one's own (E) Excellent concern for impact - ability to adapt own behaviour to address the needs or concerns of someone else (E) Good communication skills - able to speak with conviction and passion; and to make a logical argument (E) Personal qualities & values: A self-starter with ability to take initiative and work independently (E) A belief in the capacity of ordinary people to make change, and the ability to build relationships with people across divides (e.g. religious, racial, language, class, etc) (E) An anger at justice (E) A positive enthusiasm for working with faith congregations, trade unions, schools, and other community organisations (E) An interest in and experience of politics and public life (E) Able to work in a team (E) Willingness to work within accountable relationships (E) Self-motivated and adaptable (E) Our Organisers work closely with member institutions and will be expected to attend and lead events that take place in the evenings and weekends. We operate a Time Off in Lieu approach and have very flexible working arrangements to ensure a good work-life balance. The successful applicant will be required to undertake a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check. DBS checks are renewed on a 3-year cycle. About the application process . click apply for full job details
Jun 13, 2026
Seasonal
We are looking for someone who is angry at injustice, who really believes in the ability of ordinary people to make change, and who is motivated to learn the craft of Broad-Based Organising. If that is you, we'd love you to join our growing team of 11 organisers in South London! We hope to work with you to build on already existing work in Greenwich and support the building of new work in Bexley and Bromley. Citizens UK Citizens UK is the UK's biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems. Community Organising We train thousands of people each year to lead change in their communities, through the craft of Broad-based Community Organising, equipping them and their institutions with the skills to hold powerholders to account. We organise with 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK, and in South London Citizens we organise in ten boroughs with almost 100 member organisations. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents' groups, health practices, charities, migrant hubs and other civil society organisations. Purpose At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. Main Responsibilities The principal responsibility of an Associate Organiser is their own development: learning the craft of Community Organising under the guidance of an experienced Community Organiser. You will work intensively with a small number of member organisations under close supervision, growing your experience, skill and responsibility incrementally. An Associate Organiser is working towards becoming a competent practitioner of the craft of broad-based community organising methodology, and focuses on the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. This role is particularly to organise with Be Well Organisations in Greenwich, Bexley and Bromley. Be Well Organisations may be faith, education, or community institutions, tackling isolation and poor mental health by: 1. Building relationships, 2. Signposting and offering practical support, and 3. Taking action on structural and systemic inequalities and injustices. But you may also work on other campaign priorities and responsibilities as needed across the team. We are looking for people who are angry about injustice, who believe ordinary people have the power to make change, and who are motivated to learn the craft of Broad-based Organising. The role is hugely varied, and involves working across the two boroughs, in different institutions and context, and with a lot of independence. Working as an Associate Organiser in South London Citizens, your main responsibilities will include: Build relational power to further the goals of CUK: Actively participate in the development of a comprehensive power analysis appropriate to the desired sphere of influence for each project/assignment Establish working relationships with identified leaders and demonstrate ability to move them into action, including as part of the wider alliance; taking the initiative to establish new relationships Conduct 15-20 weekly one-to-ones to develop relationships with leaders and understand their concerns. Tell a wide range of Community Organising stories effectively to influence others and achieve CUK's goals Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good: Identify and discern actual and potential leaders with the passion and ability to drive change Proactively create opportunities for leaders to develop, especially tertiary or new leaders; nominate for training on the core taster curriculum Successfully deliver training workshops in local institutions and on the core taster curriculum at a local level Strengthen institutions and develop Broad Based Organisations (networks of community organisations): Ensure good understanding of the basic interests and traditions of typical member institutions Organise several Be Well Organisations to participate more fully in the alliance Support pre-existing core teams and create/develop new core teams to provide leadership Support leaders through the Cycle of Action in order to create change: Support leaders in running listening campaigns Organise actions; demonstrating increasing independence in working without the need for close supervision Take the lead in supporting Be Well Organisations through the cycle of action Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions Contribute to CUK's financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management: Recruit new dues paying institutions; work together with a more senior Organiser to negotiate annual membership fees and letters of understanding Contribute substantively to fundraising to ensure the sustainability of the work Liaise with the Finance & Operations team to update the membership database and ensure timely invoicing and fee collection Contribute to effective teamwork: Be proactive concerning personal professional development and wellbeing; i.e. by reading widely, developing a healthy work-life balance and demonstrating ability to reflect on own organising craft & improve on self-identified weaknesses Demonstrate ability to work effectively with colleagues and participate in a team Produce all required reports and follow CUK's procedures on time and to the required standards Participate in the development of the craft of Community Organising and play a role in the Guild of COs: Schedule an average of at least three 1-2-1 relational meetings into your daily schedule as a core part of your professional practice Commit 10 working days pa (pro rata for part-time staff) to the preparation, delivery and evaluation of Citizens UK National Community Leadership Training or other local or regional trainings Participate in fortnightly learning sessions with the wider SLC team Personal Specification (D) Desirable, (E) Essential Experience: Previous campaign experience (D) Evidence of having acted in a leadership role with peers or in local community activities (e.g. organising a club or project, playing a role in a faith institution) (E) Experience of project management; evidence of having delivered work on time and to standard (D) Able to demonstrate previous experience of 'learning by doing' in a work or project environment; evidence of being open to feedback and comfortably coachable (E) Key skills and knowledge: Excellent interpersonal awareness - ability to listen well and appreciate a viewpoint or opinion that is different from one's own (E) Excellent concern for impact - ability to adapt own behaviour to address the needs or concerns of someone else (E) Good communication skills - able to speak with conviction and passion; and to make a logical argument (E) Personal qualities & values: A self-starter with ability to take initiative and work independently (E) A belief in the capacity of ordinary people to make change, and the ability to build relationships with people across divides (e.g. religious, racial, language, class, etc) (E) An anger at justice (E) A positive enthusiasm for working with faith congregations, trade unions, schools, and other community organisations (E) An interest in and experience of politics and public life (E) Able to work in a team (E) Willingness to work within accountable relationships (E) Self-motivated and adaptable (E) Our Organisers work closely with member institutions and will be expected to attend and lead events that take place in the evenings and weekends. We operate a Time Off in Lieu approach and have very flexible working arrangements to ensure a good work-life balance. The successful applicant will be required to undertake a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check. DBS checks are renewed on a 3-year cycle. About the application process . click apply for full job details
Living Wage Places The Living Wage Places scheme is pioneering a collaborative, place-based approach to tackling in-work poverty. Local action groups made up of public and private sector Living Wage Employers, work together with charities, unions and civil society on a three-year action plan to tackle local in-work poverty and grow the number of employers committed to the Living Wage, Living Hours and Living Pensions. Since the scheme launched in 2019, we have recognised 20 cities, boroughs and city-regions for Making Living Wage Places. Living Wage Places taps into the power of place, recognising and developing local champions within our network and supporting them to engage and influence their community's employers. It feeds into broader local economic plans such as community wealth building and local anchor institution work. Living Wage Foundation The Living Wage movement began in 2001, after Citizens UK brought together communities in East London to discuss poverty and low pay. The campaign grew in momentum and soon required a mechanism to recognise employers who wanted to join the movement, which saw the establishment of the Living Wage Foundation in 2011. Still part of Citizens UK today, the Living Wage Foundation continues to work with community organisations to make sure the voices of both workers and businesses are part of the Living Wage movement. We now work with over 16,000 employers, benefitting over 475,000 people and winning over £3bn of better wages for people who need it most. Citizens UK works with a broad base of institutions across the political spectrum. At the Living Wage Foundation, we take the same deliberately broad-based approach and accredit all organisations who pay the real Living Wage to their directly and indirectly employed staff and are committed to tackling in work poverty. As a team we work across a range of industries and sectors to achieve this mission. We seek pragmatic coalitions in order to progress specific campaigns, and partnership around a particular issue such as Living Wage, does not imply an endorsement of broader purpose and policies. Main Responsibilities The Programme Manager for Living Wage Places plays a central role in delivering and growing a pioneering, place-based approach to tackling in-work poverty. The role is responsible for managing and developing the Living Wage Places programme, supporting local action groups to deliver ambitious action plans, and embedding wider standards including Living Hours and Living Pensions. They will be the first point of contact for regional leads seeking guidance in their work/regions. Working across a broad range of internal teams and external stakeholders, the Programme Manager will build strategic partnerships, strengthen regional networks, and ensure effective monitoring, evaluation and learning across the programme. The role combines strong project management with relationship building, strategic thinking and a commitment to increasing the scale and impact of the Living Wage movement. Working as the Programme Manager , reporting to the Senior Programme Manager for Living Wage Places, your main responsibilities will include: Contribute to CUK and Project strategic objectives: Support and grow the Living Wage Places project and ensure it is embedded in CUK's overall strategy Collate and share good practice across teams to ensure strong collaboration and that civil society remains at the heart of Living Wage Places Support strategy development around local and general elections, identifying pportunities to grow the scheme and influence stakeholders Build and manage projects and achieve work targets effectively: Monitor, evaluate and draw out learning from across the Living Wage Places project Lead the development of systems for monitoring and evaluating impact and progress Support action groups to design and deliver Action Plans including Living Hours and Living Pensions Facilitate roundtables, meetings, and milestone activities Identify opportunities to expand Living Wage Buildings and Zones Deliver project milestones and reporting Deliver additional projects aligned to team business plan Learning & Expertise: Develop expertise in local economic policy including community wealth building and devolution Support internal teams to understand Living Wage Places principles • Build knowledge of priority sectors and apply to strategy Lead internal learning sessions Provide guidance on Living Hours and Living Pensions Continue personal professional development Develop and manage external relationships: Build and manage relationships with regional stakeholders Support development of new partnerships Represent the organisation at meetings and events Co-deliver the Living Wage Places network Develop relationships that support long-term impact Communications: Support development and delivery of communications strategy Gather and share case studies Maintain communications channels Support local action groups with communications Develop and manage internal relationships: Build capacity of organisers and programme staff Lead delivery of learning strategy Support collaboration across teams Generate income and manage resources: Support development of funding proposals Collate evidence for funder reporting Contribute to budget development Support sustainable growth of programme Personal Specification (D) Desirable, (E) Essential Key skills and knowledge: Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage a wide range of competing demands (E) Outstanding communication skills, both verbally and written, combined with the ability to liaise with senior stakeholders (E) Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, lead, influence and motivate others (E) Ability to take in and interpret information and present in a succinct manner (E) Understanding of the policy and campaign landscape around inclusive local economic strategies and devolution deals (E) Ability to support monitoring and evaluation reports for external funders and internal impact monitoring (E) Strong IT skills to include MS Office and CRM software (E) Understanding of database and systems management (D) Personal qualities & values: A proactive approach to all areas of work with a 'can do' attitude and a flexible approach to work demands (E) Able to work within a team, responding to needs and achieving results collaboratively (E) Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and the mission of the Living Wage Foundation. (E) About the application process We work within diverse communities bringing people together. In line with our Inclusion value, we would love to see applications from LGBTQIA+ people, people from racialised communities, people living with disabilities and people of faith, all to better represent the communities we work in. We want our employees to have the working conditions that allows them to fully participate, be able to be their best authentic selves and thrive doing so, and we have employee networks to support staff. Even if you don't quite meet all the required criteria still consider applying, as we invest in our employees and support them to develop the skills and knowledge required to deliver their role. For questions and reasonable adjustments regarding your application including information in a different format, or our recruitment process, please email us.
Jun 12, 2026
Full time
Living Wage Places The Living Wage Places scheme is pioneering a collaborative, place-based approach to tackling in-work poverty. Local action groups made up of public and private sector Living Wage Employers, work together with charities, unions and civil society on a three-year action plan to tackle local in-work poverty and grow the number of employers committed to the Living Wage, Living Hours and Living Pensions. Since the scheme launched in 2019, we have recognised 20 cities, boroughs and city-regions for Making Living Wage Places. Living Wage Places taps into the power of place, recognising and developing local champions within our network and supporting them to engage and influence their community's employers. It feeds into broader local economic plans such as community wealth building and local anchor institution work. Living Wage Foundation The Living Wage movement began in 2001, after Citizens UK brought together communities in East London to discuss poverty and low pay. The campaign grew in momentum and soon required a mechanism to recognise employers who wanted to join the movement, which saw the establishment of the Living Wage Foundation in 2011. Still part of Citizens UK today, the Living Wage Foundation continues to work with community organisations to make sure the voices of both workers and businesses are part of the Living Wage movement. We now work with over 16,000 employers, benefitting over 475,000 people and winning over £3bn of better wages for people who need it most. Citizens UK works with a broad base of institutions across the political spectrum. At the Living Wage Foundation, we take the same deliberately broad-based approach and accredit all organisations who pay the real Living Wage to their directly and indirectly employed staff and are committed to tackling in work poverty. As a team we work across a range of industries and sectors to achieve this mission. We seek pragmatic coalitions in order to progress specific campaigns, and partnership around a particular issue such as Living Wage, does not imply an endorsement of broader purpose and policies. Main Responsibilities The Programme Manager for Living Wage Places plays a central role in delivering and growing a pioneering, place-based approach to tackling in-work poverty. The role is responsible for managing and developing the Living Wage Places programme, supporting local action groups to deliver ambitious action plans, and embedding wider standards including Living Hours and Living Pensions. They will be the first point of contact for regional leads seeking guidance in their work/regions. Working across a broad range of internal teams and external stakeholders, the Programme Manager will build strategic partnerships, strengthen regional networks, and ensure effective monitoring, evaluation and learning across the programme. The role combines strong project management with relationship building, strategic thinking and a commitment to increasing the scale and impact of the Living Wage movement. Working as the Programme Manager , reporting to the Senior Programme Manager for Living Wage Places, your main responsibilities will include: Contribute to CUK and Project strategic objectives: Support and grow the Living Wage Places project and ensure it is embedded in CUK's overall strategy Collate and share good practice across teams to ensure strong collaboration and that civil society remains at the heart of Living Wage Places Support strategy development around local and general elections, identifying pportunities to grow the scheme and influence stakeholders Build and manage projects and achieve work targets effectively: Monitor, evaluate and draw out learning from across the Living Wage Places project Lead the development of systems for monitoring and evaluating impact and progress Support action groups to design and deliver Action Plans including Living Hours and Living Pensions Facilitate roundtables, meetings, and milestone activities Identify opportunities to expand Living Wage Buildings and Zones Deliver project milestones and reporting Deliver additional projects aligned to team business plan Learning & Expertise: Develop expertise in local economic policy including community wealth building and devolution Support internal teams to understand Living Wage Places principles • Build knowledge of priority sectors and apply to strategy Lead internal learning sessions Provide guidance on Living Hours and Living Pensions Continue personal professional development Develop and manage external relationships: Build and manage relationships with regional stakeholders Support development of new partnerships Represent the organisation at meetings and events Co-deliver the Living Wage Places network Develop relationships that support long-term impact Communications: Support development and delivery of communications strategy Gather and share case studies Maintain communications channels Support local action groups with communications Develop and manage internal relationships: Build capacity of organisers and programme staff Lead delivery of learning strategy Support collaboration across teams Generate income and manage resources: Support development of funding proposals Collate evidence for funder reporting Contribute to budget development Support sustainable growth of programme Personal Specification (D) Desirable, (E) Essential Key skills and knowledge: Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage a wide range of competing demands (E) Outstanding communication skills, both verbally and written, combined with the ability to liaise with senior stakeholders (E) Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, lead, influence and motivate others (E) Ability to take in and interpret information and present in a succinct manner (E) Understanding of the policy and campaign landscape around inclusive local economic strategies and devolution deals (E) Ability to support monitoring and evaluation reports for external funders and internal impact monitoring (E) Strong IT skills to include MS Office and CRM software (E) Understanding of database and systems management (D) Personal qualities & values: A proactive approach to all areas of work with a 'can do' attitude and a flexible approach to work demands (E) Able to work within a team, responding to needs and achieving results collaboratively (E) Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and the mission of the Living Wage Foundation. (E) About the application process We work within diverse communities bringing people together. In line with our Inclusion value, we would love to see applications from LGBTQIA+ people, people from racialised communities, people living with disabilities and people of faith, all to better represent the communities we work in. We want our employees to have the working conditions that allows them to fully participate, be able to be their best authentic selves and thrive doing so, and we have employee networks to support staff. Even if you don't quite meet all the required criteria still consider applying, as we invest in our employees and support them to develop the skills and knowledge required to deliver their role. For questions and reasonable adjustments regarding your application including information in a different format, or our recruitment process, please email us.
Senior Organiser, Citizens Essex Citizens UK Citizens UK is the UK's biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems. Citizens Essex is a relatively-young Chapter of Citizens UK, covering 3 main geographical areas: Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend. Our ideal candidate for the position of Senior Organiser has high emotional intelligence, is curious about other people, politically astute, and is fundamentally relational. They will have a track record of making things happen, be able to work with a high degree of independence, are comfortable with uncertainty, and able to think strategically as well as operationally. They will be interested in understanding and working with different sectors and types of organisations, as well as engaging with people from a wide range of faiths and cultures which are different to their own. They are an excellent communicator. They will learn and teach the craft of broad-based organising and be interested in receiving feedback to support their own development and growth. They will build and maintain relationships with a large number of leaders across the County and coach them to take action together on a common agenda. Community Organising Through our theory of social change, called community organising, we train thousands of everyday people to lead change in their communities, equipping them with the skills to hold politicians and other powerholders to account. We are made up of 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents' groups, health practices, charities, trade unions and other civil society organisations. Purpose At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. There are various project roles and operational, communication, finance and HR roles that support the organisation and project staff and organisers to deliver on this mission and work. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. Main Responsibilities A Senior Organiser is mastering the craft of community organising and taking increasing responsibility for developing major campaigns, managing budgets and managing staff. They operate with a high degree of independence and are significant contributors to CUK-wide functions such as training. Senior Organisers model the broad-based community organising methodology in their work including the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. You will bring communities together to drive change both locally, regionally, and nationally. This role will work closely with local civic institutions, such as churches, mosques, schools, universities, unions and other community groups to: develop the leadership of people within those organisations - our 'leaders' who lead the campaigns we work on help them identify the changes they want to see and create strategies to win those changes strengthen institutions' own abilities to achieve their missions. This includes listening to members of the community to find common issues, engaging local decision-makers through meetings, and planning in-person 'actions', where you might hold those in power to account. All of this work is underpinned by the knowledge that everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. This work will be rooted locally, but you will be a part of a bigger national drive to make change alongside diverse local alliances across the UK. In Essex, the work is currently focusing on the first Mayoral Election for the County but you will also work on other campaign priorities that are developed through the institutions you work with. Working as a Senior Organiser for Citizens UK, reporting to Regional Supervisor for the South of England, your main responsibilities will include: Build relational power to further the goals of CUK Develop a comprehensive power analysis for Essex, particularly as the County will elect its first Mayor in May 2026 Develop and grow strong working relationships with power players at a county-wide level or sector, including journalists; taking the initiative to establish new relationships as required Conduct one-to-one relational meetings in order to develop relationships with leaders; demonstrating timely and effective agitation to stimulate action Work effectively with local journalists and media outlets to further CUK's goals Develop a strategic plan to enhance people's participation in public life as well as enhance non-partisan political and democratic practices across Essex. Develop a strategy built on an acute sense of how communities and institutions behave within, and across, the cultures and contexts of Essex. Develop a plan that enables clear and impactful cross-institutional collaboration across Essex. Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good Work with and learn from the best veteran leaders on key actions Play a central role in the development of primary leaders; creating plans with them that are carried out Nominate leaders for training on the core taster curriculum and for National Training Strengthen institutions and develop BBOs Organise diverse alliances to work together locally but, most importantly, at chapter level Create/develop a leadership team of representatives from several institutions at chapter and local that are successful in combining action with growth Design organising strategies that combine internal & external action Support leaders through the Cycle of Action to create change Take the staff lead on chapter-wide actions and campaigns; aiming to achieve significant wins at chapter/campaign level Facilitate Issues Workshops and Delegates Assemblies and, in March 2026, a Mayoral Accountability Assembly Develop strategies for significant impact; with comprehensive plans & tactics Support actions, ensuring publicity, and facilitating high level negotiations Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions Contribute to CUK's financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management Recruit new dues paying institutions; negotiating annual membership dues and letters of understanding as required Recruit and work with large organisations; ensuring that they invest into the alliance and not solely internal delivery Contribute to fundraising by securing £75k-£90k per annum overall, at least half of which should be 'hard money' from retention and recruitment of member institutions and strategic partners. Contribute to effective teamwork Line manage other Organisers in Essex Attract and help recruit new Organisers Lead other Organisers or Associates in a manner that supports high performance by providing clear expectations and providing proactive coaching, support and accountability. Teach entire training curriculum on National Training successfully; acting as a 'Track Captain' by providing meaningful feedback and support to other trainers Deliver sessions at Guild Days Produce all required reports and follow CUK's procedures on time and to the required standards Contribute to the Craft of Community Organising Schedule an average of at least 3 to 4 1-2-1 relational meetings into your daily schedule as a core part of your professional practice Commit 10 working days pa (pro rata for part-time staff) to the preparation, delivery and evaluation of Citizens UK National Community Leadership Training; Contribute to the leadership of a Guild Team and help it develop as a Community of Practice that enables Organisers across the UK to develop their skills and experience. Inclusion Displays self-awareness of DEI issues and good practice. Is alert to the impact on chapters and team members. Lead, support collaboration and acts within their area of responsibility and influence. Support in the resourcing, evaluation, and reporting of DEI work, as relevant . click apply for full job details
Oct 04, 2025
Seasonal
Senior Organiser, Citizens Essex Citizens UK Citizens UK is the UK's biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems. Citizens Essex is a relatively-young Chapter of Citizens UK, covering 3 main geographical areas: Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend. Our ideal candidate for the position of Senior Organiser has high emotional intelligence, is curious about other people, politically astute, and is fundamentally relational. They will have a track record of making things happen, be able to work with a high degree of independence, are comfortable with uncertainty, and able to think strategically as well as operationally. They will be interested in understanding and working with different sectors and types of organisations, as well as engaging with people from a wide range of faiths and cultures which are different to their own. They are an excellent communicator. They will learn and teach the craft of broad-based organising and be interested in receiving feedback to support their own development and growth. They will build and maintain relationships with a large number of leaders across the County and coach them to take action together on a common agenda. Community Organising Through our theory of social change, called community organising, we train thousands of everyday people to lead change in their communities, equipping them with the skills to hold politicians and other powerholders to account. We are made up of 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents' groups, health practices, charities, trade unions and other civil society organisations. Purpose At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. There are various project roles and operational, communication, finance and HR roles that support the organisation and project staff and organisers to deliver on this mission and work. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. Main Responsibilities A Senior Organiser is mastering the craft of community organising and taking increasing responsibility for developing major campaigns, managing budgets and managing staff. They operate with a high degree of independence and are significant contributors to CUK-wide functions such as training. Senior Organisers model the broad-based community organising methodology in their work including the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. You will bring communities together to drive change both locally, regionally, and nationally. This role will work closely with local civic institutions, such as churches, mosques, schools, universities, unions and other community groups to: develop the leadership of people within those organisations - our 'leaders' who lead the campaigns we work on help them identify the changes they want to see and create strategies to win those changes strengthen institutions' own abilities to achieve their missions. This includes listening to members of the community to find common issues, engaging local decision-makers through meetings, and planning in-person 'actions', where you might hold those in power to account. All of this work is underpinned by the knowledge that everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. This work will be rooted locally, but you will be a part of a bigger national drive to make change alongside diverse local alliances across the UK. In Essex, the work is currently focusing on the first Mayoral Election for the County but you will also work on other campaign priorities that are developed through the institutions you work with. Working as a Senior Organiser for Citizens UK, reporting to Regional Supervisor for the South of England, your main responsibilities will include: Build relational power to further the goals of CUK Develop a comprehensive power analysis for Essex, particularly as the County will elect its first Mayor in May 2026 Develop and grow strong working relationships with power players at a county-wide level or sector, including journalists; taking the initiative to establish new relationships as required Conduct one-to-one relational meetings in order to develop relationships with leaders; demonstrating timely and effective agitation to stimulate action Work effectively with local journalists and media outlets to further CUK's goals Develop a strategic plan to enhance people's participation in public life as well as enhance non-partisan political and democratic practices across Essex. Develop a strategy built on an acute sense of how communities and institutions behave within, and across, the cultures and contexts of Essex. Develop a plan that enables clear and impactful cross-institutional collaboration across Essex. Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good Work with and learn from the best veteran leaders on key actions Play a central role in the development of primary leaders; creating plans with them that are carried out Nominate leaders for training on the core taster curriculum and for National Training Strengthen institutions and develop BBOs Organise diverse alliances to work together locally but, most importantly, at chapter level Create/develop a leadership team of representatives from several institutions at chapter and local that are successful in combining action with growth Design organising strategies that combine internal & external action Support leaders through the Cycle of Action to create change Take the staff lead on chapter-wide actions and campaigns; aiming to achieve significant wins at chapter/campaign level Facilitate Issues Workshops and Delegates Assemblies and, in March 2026, a Mayoral Accountability Assembly Develop strategies for significant impact; with comprehensive plans & tactics Support actions, ensuring publicity, and facilitating high level negotiations Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions Contribute to CUK's financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management Recruit new dues paying institutions; negotiating annual membership dues and letters of understanding as required Recruit and work with large organisations; ensuring that they invest into the alliance and not solely internal delivery Contribute to fundraising by securing £75k-£90k per annum overall, at least half of which should be 'hard money' from retention and recruitment of member institutions and strategic partners. Contribute to effective teamwork Line manage other Organisers in Essex Attract and help recruit new Organisers Lead other Organisers or Associates in a manner that supports high performance by providing clear expectations and providing proactive coaching, support and accountability. Teach entire training curriculum on National Training successfully; acting as a 'Track Captain' by providing meaningful feedback and support to other trainers Deliver sessions at Guild Days Produce all required reports and follow CUK's procedures on time and to the required standards Contribute to the Craft of Community Organising Schedule an average of at least 3 to 4 1-2-1 relational meetings into your daily schedule as a core part of your professional practice Commit 10 working days pa (pro rata for part-time staff) to the preparation, delivery and evaluation of Citizens UK National Community Leadership Training; Contribute to the leadership of a Guild Team and help it develop as a Community of Practice that enables Organisers across the UK to develop their skills and experience. Inclusion Displays self-awareness of DEI issues and good practice. Is alert to the impact on chapters and team members. Lead, support collaboration and acts within their area of responsibility and influence. Support in the resourcing, evaluation, and reporting of DEI work, as relevant . click apply for full job details
