Operations Manager

CMV Action is a small but dynamic charity that raises awareness and supports families affected by congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) – a leading cause of birth defects.  Congenital CMV affects 2-3 babies every day in the UK.  CMV Action aims to raise awareness of the virus with both the public and health professionals.  We offer individual, tailored support to pregnant women or families with children affected.  Currently we rely mainly on individual fundraising and receive no government funding.

We are looking to recruit a contractor to manage the vital work of the charity and to help us plan for the future.  The work is varied and rewarding.

·        Home-based, part-time role – flexible working to cover 3 days/24 hours per week

·        Working closely with the Board of Trustees

·        Overseeing/supporting two part-time contractors

·        £35 - £40 (pro rata) depending on experience, plus reimbursement of expenses

·        12-month fixed term contract.

The majority of CMV Action’s trustees have personal or professional experience of the virus.  Our current contract holder is retiring after 9 years working with us.  We are looking to replace her with a contractor who can offer the same diverse range of skills and flexibility. 

As the CMV Action Operations Manager you will be responsible for managing all charity and operational activities, overseeing the charity’s finances and fundraising, and implementing the strategy and plans developed by the Board.  The work is varied and rewarding.

Main Responsibilities

The main purpose of this role is:

·      To manage the day-to day activities of CMV Action, to ensure efficient practises in accordance with policies and objectives at an operational level.

·      Leading CMV Action’s existing portfolio of projects that cover research, educating medical professionals, supporting families and an annual awareness-raising campaign.

·      Proactively working with the contractors and partnerships through which most projects are delivered.

·      Playing an active role within the Board of Trustees contributing to the development and implementation of charity objectives. 

·      Developing the strategic direction of the organisation and prioritising projects.

·      Identifying and developing opportunities for development of the charity,  and relationships with organisations and key individuals who can help CMV Action to achieve our goals, including other charities.

·      Promoting, delivering and participating in training sessions, conferences and relevant committees.

·      Providing administrative service, including maintaining records, charity submissions, meeting arrangements etc.

Reporting structure

This role reports directly to the Chair of the Board –who is committed to giving the right candidate the coaching and support they need to thrive in this unique role. 

Person specification

We are looking for somebody who can demonstrate the following (in written application, CV and interview).  
"E" = essential, D = desirable.

·        Experience of managing a portfolio of projects and initiatives (E)

·        Experience of developing and implementing strategy (E)

·        Innovation and problem solving skills (E)

·        Ability to proactively plan, make decisions and work independently and as part of a small team (E)

·        Ability to review and summarise medical research papers (E)

·        Excellent communication skills (written and spoken) with the ability to articulate complex issues simply and persuasively to a diverse group of stakeholders (E)

·        Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to prioritise the needs of the charity when required (E)

·        Knowledge of analytics tools and techniques (E)

·        Commitment to our mission, values and purpose (E)

·        Familiarity with research and evaluation methods (D)

·        Experience of managing projects in the field of health improvement / health research (D)

·        Experience of working with medical researchers and health professionals (D)

Qualifications

·        Good educational background, preferable with some experience in a health-related field (E)

·        Degree level qualification or equivalent (D)

Special requirements

·        Ability to participate in Trustee conference calls in the evening and attend Trustee meetings (~4 per year) held in Central London on Saturdays.

·        Travel and attendance at conferences, workshops, training days etc.

Application details

CMV Action is an equal opportunity organisation and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment with a diverse team where everyone feels safe and valued.  All applicants receive consideration without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, ethnicity, national origin, education, disability or age.

The current job holder is happy to chat to you about the role before you apply to answer any questions you may have. 

To apply, please supply a CV and a written application of no more than 2 sides of A4 explaining what experience and skills you will bring to CMV Action, playing close attention to the essential requirements listed in the job description.

Deadline for application 
1st March, 2024

Interview Dates
Interviews will take place on 21st and 22nd March, 2024