Director of Programmes

Prospectus is delighted to be supporting the British Science Association in its search for a Director of Programmes. As a member of the Executive Team, this role will provide strategic leadership across a diverse portfolio of education, community engagement, festival and grant-making programmes, including British Science Week, the British Science Festival, CREST Awards and the Ideas Fund. Reporting to the CEO, the successful candidate will lead three Heads of Department and help shape organisational strategy, drive operational excellence and maximise impact. The ideal candidate will bring significant experience leading complex programmes and balancing strategic vision with effective operational delivery.
Application Deadline
9/16/2026, The Director of Programmes will provide strategic and operational leadership for the British Science Association's (BSA) diverse programme portfolio, overseeing the delivery, development and continuous evolution of programmes spanning education, festivals, community engagement and grant-making. Ensuring that programmes remain impactful, well-designed and aligned with organisational strategy, they will balance innovation with strong operational management to support sustainable growth and long-term success. The role carries significant financial and operational responsibility, including leading organisational budgeting processes, overseeing financial planning, contract management, and contributing to wider governance, people development and organisational effectiveness. Working closely with the Senior Management Team, Trustees, outsourced Finance Director and external advisers, the postholder will also champion the use of digital tools to improve organisational performance and programme
delivery. The postholder will help shape organisational strategy and business plans, manage risk and monitor progress against strategic objectives. The role requires building and maintaining strong relationships with funders, partners and key stakeholders, while identifying opportunities for programme growth, innovation and income diversification. The successful candidate will play an active role in fundraising and business development, developing compelling funding propositions and securing sustainable income streams to support future growth. They will foster a culture of learning, reflection and continuous improvement, using evidence and insight to strengthen programme impact, ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in design and delivery. Leading and supporting Heads of Department and wider teams, they will champion a collaborative and high-performing culture, model values-led leadership and act as a senior external ambassador for BSA's mission and programmes.
Location
London/Hybrid
Working from
Hybrid
Remuneration
£70,000-£78,000
Hours