London (hybrid working) - Start asap. We are seeking an experienced Widening Access and Outreach Manager to lead the delivery of a high-impact national programme focused on increasing diversity and access to career pathways for underrepresented groups.
This role will design and deliver a portfolio of outreach activities including summer schools, careers programmes, and educational engagement for school students and undergraduates. The aim is to broaden participation and improve access to opportunities through engaging and inclusive programmes.
You will work at the intersection of education, research, and external partnerships, translating complex subject matter into accessible and engaging learning experiences. Salary £29 to £31ph according to experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the end-to-end delivery of a national outreach and widening participation programme
- Design and implement engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and learning content
- Manage partnerships across education providers, delivery organisations, and stakeholders
- Oversee safeguarding, pastoral care, and participant wellbeing across all activities
- Manage programme budgets, timelines, and reporting
- Lead recruitment, onboarding, and supervision of facilitators and delivery staff
- Develop communications and engagement strategies in collaboration with internal teams
- Evaluate programme impact, track KPIs, and drive continuous improvement
- Identify and develop future funding opportunities and programme growth
About You
You will bring a strong track record of delivering complex outreach or education programmes, ideally within higher education, public sector, or not-for-profit environments.
You should demonstrate:
- Proven experience managing multi-stakeholder programmes at scale
- Strong safeguarding knowledge and experience working with young people
- Experience designing and delivering engaging learning or training programmes
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex topics for diverse audiences
- Strong organisational and project management capability
- Experience leading teams, facilitators, or volunteers
Desirable:
- Experience working within large, partnership-driven organisations
- Familiarity with widening participation or EDI-focused initiatives
Additional Information
- This role involves UK-wide travel and delivery during peak periods (including school holidays)
- Candidates must be eligible for background checks where required
- Applicants must have the right to work in the UK
Why Apply
This is an opportunity to lead a nationally significant programme that directly impacts access to career opportunities. You will play a key role in shaping inclusive pathways, working alongside a wide range of partners and stakeholders.
Gray & Associates is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity