Making a Difference

Supporting Communities, Charities and Volunteers to make Harrogate a great place to live and work.

Welcome and thank you for your interest in this role.

As Chair of Harrogate & District Community Action (HADCA) I am delighted to introduce our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role.

HADCA is an independent registered charity which supports communities, charities and volunteers throughout Harrogate. We provide specialist information and resources to support local charitable groups, promote community action and campaign through local partnerships to make a positive difference.

From our base at Community House in Harrogate, we work alongside residents, members, community groups, partner organisations and the local authority to address the challenges faced by our community. Our aim is not only to respond to immediate needs but to jointly create long-term, sustainable solutions that build resilience and well-being, enabling people to thrive in their communities.

We are looking for an ambitious change-agent, a visionary leader to guide HADCA through its next stage of growth. The CEO will be responsible for the overall strategic direction, operational management, fundraising, and external relationships of the charity. You will have the unique opportunity to shape the future of our charity, ensuring we continue to make a lasting difference to the lives of those we support. You will work closely with our passionate team, our Board of Trustees, and a wide range of partners to grow our impact, secure sustainable funding, and strengthen our presence both locally and nationally whilst ensuring that our charity’s mission, values, and goals are achieved. We have momentum and ambition; we need your leadership to take us further.

You will excel at leading change, creatively exploring growth opportunities, and preserving and further building our legacy. Your strong relationships with partner organisations will be invaluable. There are many opportunities for HADCA’s future, making this an opportunity for you to really shape our long-term contribution for the residents of Harrogate. You'll have the opportunity to develop our early-stage initiatives into mainstream successes, attracting more funding and creating new opportunities into the future.

We are a high-performing charity, with a strong reputation built over the last 50 years, valued by those we support and with the confidence of our partners, however, we are not complacent - we are resolute in our ambition to constantly seek out new ways to support our community and our members. This might be through creating new partnerships to deliver help and support into communities or finding new and creative ways to attract people to become volunteers and encourage money and in-kind support for the sector locally from individuals and the private sector.

The demand for support continues to grow whether this be with health and wellbeing or as a result of the ever-increasing cost of living rises that impacts our Charity and the residents we serve. We are committed to finding ways to tackle these challenges, collaborating with partners, and directing those in need to local support services. Our next CEO will need to think creatively, enhance shared awareness, and ensure the continued advancement of our work.

Although we operate with a small team, we are ably supported by a great team of volunteers, and together they show their boundless commitment and enthusiasm for working with and for those in need.

Please check out our Facebook page to see what we have been up to recently!

We can offer you a secure role where you can thrive, so if you are interested in being our new CEO and inspired to help lead the next phase of our journey, we look forward to your application. In the meantime, following an initial conversation with our recruitment partners at The Resourcing Solution I would be delighted to discuss this opportunity with those who might wish to learn a little more.

Helen Bourner – Chair of Trustees, Harrogate & District Community Action

About the Role

Job title: Chief Executive Officer
Location: Harrogate / Hybrid
Contract: 24 hours per week* / Permanent
Salary: NJC SCP 31 – 35: £40,476 - £44,711 pro rata* plus 5% employer’s pension contribution
Employer: Harrogate & District Community Action

As a high performing organisation and strong reputation, this is an exciting career prospect together with the opportunity to make a difference to the communities we serve.

As our new Chief Executive, you will be responsible for working with the Board of Trustees to:

• Lead the organisation, developing and implementing strategic and business plans and budgets, and ensuring good governance and compliance across all aspects of the charity.
• Ensure that Harrogate and District Community Action is well placed and resourced to respond with flexibility to support community action in line with its charitable objectives.
• Lead a phase of change and potential realignment of the charity’s activities.

Leadership and Governance: You will work with trustees to provide leadership and coordination to develop and deliver the organisation's mission and aims. Collaborating with staff and trustees to prepare and ensure the delivery of strategic, budget, and action plans for Board approval. Whilst leading an ambitious phase of growth and potential realignment of the charity’s activities, ensure overall legal and contractual compliance, attend Board meetings, preparing reports and identifying major risks for the Board's attention.

Operational Management: You will deliver on growth and fundraising targets set by the Board of Trustees. Responsible for human resources, ensuring effective use of staff and volunteers to meet strategic and business plans, while maintaining a positive working environment and legal compliance. Whilst inspiring and supporting staff, ensuring clear objectives, good induction processes, training, personal development, performance management, and appraisal. Ensuring high-quality service delivery to meet the needs of members and service users. Seeking collaborative opportunities with partner organisations to develop new and existing business models and work programmes to benefit service users and generate income. Responsibility for developing, implementing, and applying organisational policies, procedures, and practices covering safeguarding, health and safety, employment and employee relations, financial operations, and other internal operations and service delivery. Working with colleagues to design and deliver training for staff, volunteers, service users, member organisations, stakeholders, and others.

Finance and Fundraising: You will collaborate with the Finance Officer and Finance Sub-committee to ensure financial sustainability and income generation through various channels, including public service contracts, trusts, legacies, major donor fundraising, and other revenue opportunities. Taking lead in identifying, assessing, and recommending new strategic opportunities for the organisation's business model to the Board. Additionally, working with the Board to determine the appropriate use of financial reserves, fixed assets, and investments. Maximising the use of our Charities assets to further commercial opportunities to invest in our work for the benefit of others.

External relations and Partnership working: You will develop and maintain credible relationships with various local, regional, and national bodies, including commissioners, statutory services, funders, key stakeholders, universities, research bodies, the private sector, sponsors, donors, local communities, members, staff, and trustees. Acting as the spokesperson and ambassador for the charity, raising awareness of its work and the needs of its members and service users. Staying informed about developments in community action and information services to keep the organisation relevant and maximise service delivery opportunities. Monitor service impact, maintain knowledge of statutory duties, and design campaigns to improve lives in the Harrogate District. Develop mechanisms for listening to and involving members, volunteers, and service users, ensuring their voices are heard by decision-makers and reflected in the charity's work. Additionally, create an annual marketing and communications plan to ensure a positive presence in the Harrogate District and beyond.

To be successful in the role you will be;

• A visionary leader that can shape the present and create the future and is able to inspire and motivate others.
• Willing to explore new opportunities in a changing environment.
• A creative and courageous change agent who can drive the charity forwards to sustainable long-term growth.
• An open and collaborative leader with strong interpersonal skills.
• Resilient, with the ability to work in a challenging, changing and often stressful environment.
• Professional, flexible, enthusiastic, dependable, conscientious; displaying a positive work ethic.
• Committed and demonstrated the values of Harrogate & District Community Action.

In return you will be welcomed by passionate people, ready for you to lead us and partners excited to work with you to collectively raise our achievements. Our Board of Trustees will provide you with professional support providing the platform for you to succeed. Perhaps most importantly you will gain great personal satisfaction from the tangible impact you make on the lives of others.

Make a difference as our next CEO. Lead Harrogate & District Community Action into an exciting future of growth, impact, and success!

*The full time equivalent salary is £40,476 - £44,711, the part time contract of 24 hours results in an actual part time salary of £26,255 – £29,002 per annum plus 5% employers pension contribution.

Living in Harrogate and Districts surrounding

Living in Harrogate and its surrounding districts—Ripon, Knaresborough, Masham, Boroughbridge, and Pateley Bridge—offers a blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Each of these towns and villages has its own unique character, but they all share the appeal of being located in the picturesque region of North Yorkshire. Here’s a brief overview of life in each of these areas:

Harrogate

Harrogate is a thriving spa town, known for its Victorian architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant cultural scene. It has been a popular destination for those seeking a high

quality of life, offering a mix of urban amenities and access to nature.

Living Experience: The town offers excellent schools, healthcare, and a variety of shopping, dining, and leisure options. The famous Valley Gardens, the Turkish Baths, and the RHS Garden Harlow Carr provide beautiful outdoor spaces. Harrogate also hosts several events, including the Harrogate International Festivals.

Transport: Harrogate has great transport links, including a direct train to Leeds and York, as well as easy access to the A1(M) for road travel.

Ripon

Ripon is a historic cathedral city with a more relaxed pace of life. It’s famous for Ripon Cathedral, its market square, and the beautiful surrounding countryside.

Living Experience: Ripon offers a tight-knit community, great local schools, and various amenities. The city's weekly market and events like the Ripon Races and Ripon Old Wagon Horse Fair are highlights. There are plenty of green spaces, including nearby Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Transport: While Ripon doesn’t have a train station, it is well-served by bus routes and is a short drive to the nearby town of Thirsk, which has rail connections to major cities.

Knaresborough

Knaresborough is a historic market town located on the River Nidd, known for its dramatic riverside views, the famous Knaresborough Castle, and the Mother Shipton’s Cave.

Living Experience: The town is known for its independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as a range of outdoor activities along the river. The town has a mix of traditional stone houses and modern properties. Its close-knit community, combined with beautiful walking and cycling routes, makes it an attractive place to live.

Transport: Knaresborough is well-connected to Harrogate and Leeds by train, making it a convenient location for commuters.

Masham

Masham is a small, charming market town in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, famous for its brewing heritage, particularly Theakston Brewery and Black Sheep Brewery.

Living Experience: Masham offers a rural lifestyle with a strong community spirit. It has local shops, pubs, and cafés, and the surrounding Dales provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The town is peaceful but vibrant with events like the Masham Sheep Fair and the Beer Festival.

Transport: Masham is a little more remote but is within easy reach of Ripon and Northallerton, which offer better transport links. The area is ideal for those looking for a quieter, more rural lifestyle while remaining connected to nearby towns.

 

Boroughbridge

Boroughbridge is a small market town located near the River Ure, offering a more tranquil environment than larger towns like Harrogate. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times and is known for its historic bridge and local landmarks.

Living Experience: The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, with good local amenities, including shops, schools, and pubs. The surrounding countryside offers scenic walks and opportunities for outdoor activities. The community is active, with events like the Boroughbridge Sheep Fair and annual charity events.

Transport: Boroughbridge is well-connected by road, being close to the A1(M), and has bus services to nearby towns and cities.

 

Pateley Bridge

Pateley Bridge is a small town located within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering incredible access to nature and a peaceful rural lifestyle.

Living Experience: Known for its beautiful surroundings, Pateley Bridge has a charming high street with independent shops, cafés, and pubs. It’s a great place for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, as the town is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Nidderdale. The town also has a vibrant community and is home to events like the Pateley Bridge Scarecrow Festival.

Transport: Pateley Bridge is a little more remote, with limited public transport, but it’s within driving distance of Harrogate and Ripon, both of which offer more extensive transport links.

 

General Features of the Area:

Scenic Beauty: All these towns are surrounded by natural beauty, from the Yorkshire Dales to the North York Moors, providing numerous outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, and wildlife watching.

Community: There is a strong sense of community across these towns, with numerous local events, markets, and festivals throughout the year, fostering a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

Quality of Life: These areas offer a high quality of life, with good schools, healthcare, and access to cultural and recreational activities. The pace of life tends to be slower than in larger cities, making it an attractive option for families, retirees, and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

Overall, living in Harrogate and the surrounding areas offers a perfect mix of rural charm, natural beauty, and good transport links to larger cities, making it an ideal place for those looking for a more peaceful and balanced lifestyle.

Key Documents

Job Description / Person Specification [82kb]
Structure Chart [88kb]
Harrogate and District Community Action Website
Impact Report 2023-2024
Trustees' Report and Financial Statements 2023 - 2024

 

Key Dates

Closing date: Midnight Thursday 30 January
Shortlisting date: Tuesday 4 February
Interview date: Thursday 13 February (in-person Community House, Harrogate)

Contact us and apply now

Contact us and apply

For an informal confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Leanne Auton on 07815 028 548 or email Leanne.Auton@northyorks.gov.uk from our recruitment partners -  The Resourcing Solution.

To apply please send your CV including a supporting statement in one Microsoft Word document to: Executive.ResourcingSolutions@northyorks.gov.uk

Please do not send PDFs.

It is important that your CV includes: your full contact details (telephone, email, address), full employment history (name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and salary), full education history (qualification, grade, dates and place of study), explanation of any gaps in employment and the contact details of at least two referees including your current / most recent employer indicating whether you consent to us contacting each referee prior to interview. Please also provide details of your current salary and notice period.

Your supporting statement should outline your motivation for applying and how you meet the criteria for the role.

Your privacy: Harrogate & District Community Action is committed to protecting your privacy when you use our services. Please refer to our Privacy Statement which explains how we use information about you and how we protect your privacy.

Harrogate & District Community Action is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff. We welcome applications from individuals regardless of age, any disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief.

We will not accept applications from agencies.

Company No.7760477 Registered Charity No. 1144758