Chief Executive Officer
Headway Luton is a registered charity that provides support, advice and services to people with an acquired brain injury and to their families and carers.
We deliver centre-based activities and community support services aimed at helping people live as independently as possible, maximise their potential, and improve their quality of life.
Our work is rooted in person-centred care, dignity, respect and inclusion. We collaborate closely with local partners, funders and the community to ensure that our services remain relevant, accessible and sustainable.
Role overview
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the overall leadership, management and development of Headway Luton.
They will ensure that the charity delivers high-quality, person-centred services in line with regulatory standards, while working with the Board of Trustees to secure the organisation’s long-term sustainability and growth.
The CEO will promote a culture that reflects our core values:
Person-centred careDignity and respect
Safeguarding and safety
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Professional standards
Key responsibilities- Strategic leadership
Identify opportunities for growth, partnerships and service development.
Ensure services continue to meet the needs of the local community.
- Governance and board engagement
Attend trustee meetings and provide clear and timely reports.
Ensure compliance with the Charity Commission, Companies House and relevant legislation.
Support the planning and delivery of the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
- Service delivery & operations
Ensure compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards.
Monitor service performance and outcomes.
Ensure safeguarding is embedded across all services.
- People leadership
Line manage senior staff and oversee performance management processes.
Promote a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture.
Ensure the appropriate recruitment, training and development of staff.
- Financial management & sustainability
Ensure resources are managed effectively and responsibly.
Support the development of funding streams, grants and partnerships.
Contribute to long-term financial planning and sustainability.
Person specification
Essential criteria
Experience
Experience in the charity, health or social care sectorExperience of managing teams and organisational performance.
Experience of financial oversight and budget management.
Skills and knowledge
Strong leadership and people management skillsAbility to work effectively with a Board or senior stakeholders
Good understanding of governance, compliance and risk
Strong communication and decision-making skills
Personal attributes
Reliable, motivated and able to work independentlyAble to prioritise workload and manage competing demands
Committed to the values and aims of Headway Luton
Desirable criteria
Experience in a senior leadership role (e.g. CEO, Director or equivalent).Understanding of CQC or regulated services
Experience of fundraising, commissioning or contract management
Relevant qualification (e.g. business, leadership or management)
Position: Chief Executive OfficerEmployer: Headway Luton Ltd (Registered Charity 1080775)
Location: 49-53 Alma Street, Luton, LU1 2PL
Responsible to: Board of Trustees
Hours: 25 hours per week (flexible, Monday to Friday)
Salary: £30,277 per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Permanent, subject to a six-month probationary period
Annual leave: 28 days plus bank holidays (pro rata)
Pension: 5% employer contribution
Other benefits: Flexible working, TOIL for additional hours and free on-site parking
Appendix 1: Initial priorities (first 6 months)
Build strong relationships with staff, trustees and key stakeholders.Develop a clear understanding of services, operations and funding.
Review the current financial position and identify risks or opportunities.
Ensure governance and reporting processes are effective.
Identify early opportunities for service improvement or development.
Contribute to future strategic planning.