More than ever it’s clear we need to change our politics and democracy so that we can change society. Up against sharp and ambitious right-wing populism, we need to dig really deep in terms of ideas, culture and structure for a new politics. Compass want to help lead the renewal of progressive politics in really ambitious and systematic ways.

Compass is now recruiting for a new role within the organisation. We are looking for a Deputy Director – application deadline 24th February 2020.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Reporting to the Executive Director (ED), the Deputy Director (DD) will direct and lead the day-to-day operations of Compass, sharing responsibility for the management and leadership of the organisation. You will be responsible for key programmes and operations, as well as building a sustainable and growing organisation.

• This role involves building, managing and growing a committed and diverse team, both a small employed team and a wide range of committed and talented volunteers.
• Directing and leading the day-to-day operations of the organisation.
• Taking day-to-day responsibility for the workplan and operations of Compass.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES 

• Lead the planning, implementation and delivery of the organisation’s overall workplan
• Building the operations, systems and processes of the organisation (Finance, HR and IT)
• Ensure the organisation has an effective financial model – managing fundraising, financial and project reporting for the organisation (there is a highly qualified Treasurer on the Board)
• Ensure accurate and timely information management to enable effective decision-making
• Ensure key stakeholders and partners deliver financial and operational targets – for instance our membership partnership with Small Axe, the Basic Income Hub, and other strategic partnerships
• Ensure effective governance processes, facilitating and maintaining good working relationships with the Board, Council, and Associates, with the right levels of oversight. Ensure preparation and delivery of Board papers and follow-up to meetings to deliver all action points
• Developing structures and cultures that disperse power in Compass to our members, supporters and networks
• To undertake any other duties commensurate with the post.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Demonstrable proven background in a COO, operations and/or management function
• Strong people management skills with experience of developing a high-performing organisation through effective planning, processes, systems, decision-making, innovation and change management
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with excellent interpersonal and influencing skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to present technical information in a concise and accessible way to manager, board and others
• Flexible and able to multitask; can work within a fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities and guiding investment
• Must be able to work autonomously with minimal daily oversight.  

EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS & KNOWLEDGE

• A successful track record in a leadership/management role which has included some of the following areas: strategic planning and performance, project design and management, fundraising, staff recruitment, management and development, political strategy and implementation
• An understanding and experience of the UK progressive political scene and support for the goals, vision and values of Compass.

ABOUT COMPASS AND THE ROLE

Compass is a highly ambitious political project to change the way we do politics, so that we can change our society. With a strong track record of political innovation around campaigns, ideas and methods, Compass wants to rapidly expand its influence, reach and size in the emerging and challenging era of the 2020s.  

This post is suitable for someone who believes in the vision and culture of a good society and that wants to work flexibly and hard, possibly as a step towards a Director/CEO role.

The successful applicant will work closely with the Executive Director Neal Lawson.

Pay will be up to £45k depending on experience – ideally but not essentially London-based with room for flexible working in terms of days and location. 

Please apply with CV and in writing, by setting out in 500 words what you think the main organisational challenges for a small but ambitious progressive organisation like Compass are and how you would address them. The closing date is 24^th February and interviews will be held in central London on Tuesday 3^rd March. 

Applications to: neal@compassonline.org.uk

For an informal conversation about the job and the role please contact the Executive Director at neal@compassonline.org.uk