Charity Programme Manager Jobs
If you’re passionate about making a positive difference and skilled at leading impactful initiatives, Charity Programme Manager jobs offer a rewarding and meaningful career path within Scotland’s charity and public sector. These roles are perfect for professionals who want to combine strategic planning, leadership, and compassion to drive programmes that create lasting change in communities.
We work with experienced programme leaders and enthusiastic changemakers to connect them with respected charities, non-profit organisations, and public sector bodies. Whether you’re looking to advance your career in the third sector or transition into a purpose-driven role, our recruitment specialists can help you find the ideal position that aligns with your skills and values.
What Does a Charity Programme Manager Do?
A Charity Programme Manager oversees the development, coordination, and delivery of charitable projects and initiatives, ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget. These professionals manage people, partnerships, and resources to achieve meaningful outcomes that improve lives and strengthen communities. Typical responsibilities of a Charity Programme Manager include:
Designing and implementing programmes that align with the organisation’s mission and goals.
Managing budgets, timelines, and reporting processes.
Leading teams of staff, volunteers, and external partners.
Monitoring project performance and measuring impact through data and feedback.
Building relationships with funders, stakeholders, and local authorities.
Writing funding proposals, progress reports, and strategic plans.
Ensuring compliance with governance, safeguarding, and ethical standards.
Charity Programme Managers play a pivotal role in ensuring charitable initiatives are delivered effectively and sustainably, balancing empathy and efficiency to create meaningful community impact.
Skills and Qualities for Charity Programme Manager Jobs
To excel as a Charity Programme Manager, you’ll need a strong mix of leadership, communication, and organisational skills, alongside a genuine commitment to social impact. Employers look for professionals who can inspire teams, manage complex projects, and navigate the unique challenges of the non-profit environment. Key skills and qualities include:
Proven experience in programme or project management, ideally within the charity or public sector.
Excellent leadership and team coordination skills.
Strong written and verbal communication, including report writing and stakeholder engagement.
Budget management and financial oversight experience.
Ability to evaluate outcomes and implement continuous improvements.
Strategic thinking with a hands-on, collaborative approach.
Passion for community development, equality, and positive change.
Qualifications in project management (such as PRINCE2 or Agile), social policy, or business administration can strengthen your application, though practical experience and a values-driven attitude are equally important.
Training and Career Progression
A role as a Charity Programme Manager offers the chance to grow both professionally and personally, with clear pathways for advancement within the charity and public sectors. As you gain experience, you can progress into senior leadership roles such as:
Head of Programmes
Director of Operations
Charity Development Manager
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Many professionals also specialise in areas such as fundraising, social impact measurement, or policy development. Continuous professional development through leadership training and charity management courses can further enhance your skills and career opportunities within this inspiring sector.
Browse Charity Programme Manager jobs with Stafffinders today.