Executive Officer Junior Officer

Gorse Hill Studios, Trafford, Manchester (Some remote working will be considered)
Contract Type: Full time, permanent

About Gorse Hill Studios

Gorse Hill Studios is a dynamic and ambitious youth and community arts charity. At the heart of our organisation is a belief that all young people deserve to feel valued, supported and inspired. We work with young people to build confidence, creativity and community connections, ensuring they have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.

We believe that creativity can transform lives, and we are committed to placing young people at the centre of everything we do. Their voices, ideas and experiences help shape our programmes, partnerships and strategic direction.

Our team currently includes 20 core staff and a wider network of volunteers and creative practitioners, delivering a diverse portfolio of youth arts sessions, community engagement projects, creative wellbeing initiatives and partnership-led activity with local schools and organisations. The CEO will play a pivotal role in leading this portfolio, strengthening our impact, championing youth voice and ensuring young people continue to shape our future direction as we move into the next chapter of our development.

As CEO, you will provide strategic, compassionate and visionary leadership, ensuring Gorse Hill Studios delivers its mission to empower and inspire young people. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will hold overall responsibility for the organisation’s performance, culture, operations and long-term sustainability. This role calls for someone who demonstrates strong strategic insight with the ability to influence and inspire others, using emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership to build positive internal and external relationships.

A fundamental part of this role is your commitment to embedding young people’s voice in decision making. You will champion their perspectives, ensuring programme development, strategy and organisational culture reflect the needs and aspirations of the young people we serve.

You will also be an ambassador for the charity, building trusted relationships with young people, partners, funders and the wider community. This role requires a leader who is values led, resilient and passionate about supporting young people through the arts and creative engagement.

Strategic Leadership and Governance

Lead on the development and delivery of the charity’s long-term strategy, with young people meaningfully involved
Ensure compliance with all statutory, regulatory and governance requirements, including Charity Commission expectations and safeguarding duties
Financial Management and Income Generation

Oversee budgeting, financial planning and responsible management of all funds
Identify sustainable opportunities for organisational growth

Operational Management and Programme Delivery

Ensure programmes are high quality, inclusive and reflective of young people’s needs and feedback
Champion a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture
Oversee recruitment, wellbeing and performance management

Advocate for and with young people locally and nationally
Senior leadership experience in the charity, youth, arts or wider non-profit sector
Strong financial management skills
Knowledge of safeguarding practices in youth settings
Experience in the youth arts or creative community sector
Understanding of the Trafford community landscape

We are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals who share these values and are passionate about empowering young people.

An enhanced DBS check will be required.

Closing date: 19 January
Interview date: 23 January at Gorse Hill Studios