Chief Operating Officer (COO) – New Meaning Foundation

About New Meaning Foundation

New Meaning Foundation (NMF) is a registered charity and social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives through innovative training, employment, and housing solutions. The organisation focuses on supporting people who are experiencing disadvantage, particularly those facing barriers to employment and stable housing. By delivering practical training and creating sustainable homes, New Meaning Foundation empowers individuals to build brighter futures both in UK and The Gambia, West Africa (via MoJo Foundation).

NMF has grown from 1 initial employee in 2012 to 18 colleagues in 2025. Founded to be wholly responsible for funding and operating our Charity in The Gambia – MoJo Foundation – with up to 25 trainees and employees over there – NMF now trains and employs many of our own graduates in the UK, on modern, fully accredited, efficient, modern, modular homes, built to the highest UK standards with full warranty. NMF also offers 1-2-1 and 1-2-few alternative provision places to SEND / SEMH / NEET young people age 14 – 24 with an EHCP. Bricklaying, plumbing, tiling, decorating and site carpentry are taught from entry level to level 2. Work experience on actual commercial builds under supervision is our unique proposition.

Role Overview

This is a new role.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for the effective day-to-day management of New Meaning Foundation’s operations. The COO will ensure that the charity’s mission is delivered efficiently and sustainably, overseeing program delivery, operational strategy, and internal processes. This role reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of all operational activities, ensuring alignment with the charity’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Lead and manage operational teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Program Management

• Ensure the successful delivery of training, employment, and housing programs, maintaining high standards of impact and compliance.
• Monitor and report on program outcomes, using data to drive decision-making and improve effectiveness.

• Financial Oversight

• Manage operational budgets, working closely with the finance team to ensure financial sustainability and effective resource allocation.
• Support fundraising and income generation initiatives, contributing to grant applications and partnership development.

• Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all operational activities comply with legal, regulatory, and safeguarding requirements.
• Identify and manage risks, implementing robust policies and procedures to protect beneficiaries, staff, and the organisation.

• Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with partners, funders, and community stakeholders.
• Represent New Meaning Foundation at external events and forums, championing the charity’s work and values.

• Strategic Planning

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the charity’s strategic plan.
• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and increased impact in line with organisational priorities.

Person Specification

• Significant experience in a senior operational or management role, ideally within the charity, social enterprise, or housing sectors.
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage complex projects or programmes.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of New Meaning Foundation.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, compliance, and risk management best practices.

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Terms

• Full-time, permanent position
• Location: Flexible/hybrid, with regular presence at New Meaning Foundation sites as required
• Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience




This job description outlines the principal duties and responsibilities of the role, which may be subject to change in line with the evolving needs of New Meaning Foundation




Contact John Evans - john.evans@newmeaningfoundation.org with your CV and a brief description of what you would bring to this role and how you would envisage growing the social return and performance at NMF.