Senior Programmes & Communications Manager

About Patchwork Foundation

Patchwork's mission is to promote, encourage and support the active participation of young people from disadvantaged and minority communities in British democracy, politics and civil society.

Founded in 2012, Patchwork creates opportunities for under-represented, disadvantaged and minority communities within British society to engage actively with politics and democracy. In 2018, Patchwork was registered as a charity with the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

About the Role

The Senior Programmes & Communications Manager plays a vital role in managing and delivering a range of engagement programmes that strengthen long-term participation across the Patchwork community. The role is central to maximising our impact by building strong relationships with young people, coordinating high-quality programme delivery, and creating accessible pathways into civic and political engagement.

Alongside programme delivery, the postholder will lead on Patchwork's external communications across our social media channels, website, and newsletter, ensuring that activities, opportunities, and key updates are communicated clearly and consistently.

Duties and Responsibilities

Programme Management and Delivery

• Lead the development, coordination, and delivery of a range of engagement programmes, including our Internship Programme, MP of the Year Awards, and GetInvolved Programme including the Party Conference Programme

• Support the design and implementation of events, workshops, and networking opportunities that strengthen relationships and create clear pathways for participant progression

• Act as a key point of contact for programme participants and stakeholders, providing guidance and maintaining strong, supportive relationships

• Foster continued engagement by encouraging participants to take part in wider organisational activities such as mentoring, volunteering, or leadership opportunities

• Work with the Programme Manager to monitor and evaluate programme impact, ensuring insights are captured and shared with senior leadership

Programme Support Across All Initiatives

• Provide logistical and administrative support for the planning and delivery of all engagement activities

• Support outreach, recruitment, and onboarding processes to ensure a diverse and engaged cohort of participants

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date programme records, ensuring compliance with safeguarding, GDPR, and internal policies

• Contribute to the development of programme materials, resources, and session content to ensure high-quality delivery

Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead on the development and delivery of the Foundation's communications strategy to expand reach and support

• Promote programme activities through social media, newsletters, website and other channels, ensuring consistent and compelling messaging

• Build and maintain positive relationships with external stakeholders including partners, guest speakers, sponsors, community organisations, and volunteers

• Represent the organisation at events and meetings to strengthen visibility and expand networks

Person Specification

Knowledge

• Knowledge of underrepresented, disadvantaged and minority communities (Essential)

• Good awareness of UK politics and democracy (Desirable)

• Understanding of the charity or democracy sectors (Desirable)

Experience

• Working with young people and supporting their development (Essential)

• Managing stakeholder relationships (Desirable)

• Working with or managing volunteers (Desirable)

• Event planning or management (Desirable)

• Managing multiple projects or stakeholders (Desirable)

Skills

• Proficiency in Google Suite, Zoom, Canva, Mailchimp, WordPress, LinkedIn, Twitter/X and Instagram (Essential)

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt style to different audiences (Essential)

• Strong organisational and administrative skills with the ability to manage multiple streams of work (Essential)

• Ability to manage conflict, solve problems and create a positive working environment (Essential)

• Initiative and innovative thinking to adhere to timelines (Essential)

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team (Essential)

• Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information (Essential)

Values

• Desire to support underrepresented, disadvantaged and minority communities (Essential)

• Able to support volunteers, stakeholders and beneficiaries with a variety of political views or beliefs (Essential)

• Understanding, empathy and commitment to Patchwork's aims and values (Essential)

Staff Benefits

• 28 days annual leave per annum plus bank holidays

• 8% pension contribution (5% employee / 3% employer)

• TOIL policy for pre-approved out-of-hours work

• Half day Fridays

• Office closed after major events

• Office closed during the Christmas - New Year period

• Annual free eye test

• Charity days

• Hybrid and flexible working policies

• £1,000 for training and development

How to Apply

Send your CV, cover letter, two referees (including most recent employer) and completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form to with the subject line: Application for Senior Programmes & Communications Manager Your Name

The Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form can be downloaded from the last page of the full job description at:

We review applications on a rolling basis and may close the process early. Interviews will be held in person and will include a pre-sent presentation task.