Senior Management Role

Description:

Communities 1st is seeking a dynamic and visionary Social Enterprise Development Manager to lead, develop, and expand the organization’s portfolio of social enterprise services. The ideal candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring that all services are innovative, inclusive, and financially sustainable, while strengthening Communities 1st’s mission to enhance the wellbeing of local people across St Albans, Hertsmere, and Welwyn Hatfield.

The role involves overseeing existing social enterprise operations, such as community centres, facility hire, and handyperson services, as well as driving the creation of new income-generating initiatives. You will work collaboratively with internal teams to develop innovative service models and embed an enterprising mindset throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead and support a multidisciplinary team delivering community enterprise services, including facilities and traded services.

• Provide effective coaching, supervision, and performance management to staff.

• Foster a values-led, high-performing, and inclusive work culture.

Enterprise Strategy & Development:

• Design and implement strategic business plans that balance social mission with financial sustainability.

• Lead innovation across enterprise areas, identifying growth opportunities and diversifying revenue streams.

• Partner with internal departments (Creative, Wellbeing, Volunteering, etc.) to develop and scale enterprise-related initiatives like workshops, training, and events.

• Promote enterprise offers to local businesses, schools, and community organizations.

Finance & Operations Management:

• Oversee enterprise budgets, purchasing, pricing, and income tracking in line with finance procedures.

• Manage operational systems, assets, and facilities effectively.

• Use performance data to guide improvements in service delivery, efficiency, and impact.

Supported Volunteering & Employment:

• Collaborate with Wellbeing, Employment & Skills teams to provide inclusive volunteering and work placements.

• Support volunteers and participants to build skills and confidence leading to employment opportunities.

• Ensure inclusion and person-centred approaches are embedded across all enterprise services.

Marketing, Sales & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Work with Marketing & Communications to raise awareness of enterprise offers.

• Develop and maintain partnerships with local businesses, schools, and community partners.

• Engage suppliers, venues, and collaborators to strengthen enterprise initiatives.

Quality & Continuous Improvement:

• Promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement.

• Implement standard operating procedures and quality assurance processes to ensure consistency and impact across services.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Proven experience in social enterprise development, business planning, and financial management.

• Strong background in stakeholder engagement and partnership development.

• Experience managing operations, budgets, and performance metrics.

• Business development and marketing expertise to grow services and products.

• Familiarity with commissioning models within corporate, school, or public sectors.

• Understanding of inclusive volunteering or supported employment pathways.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

• Prior experience in the nonprofit or community development sector is highly desirable.

Work Location:

Ver House, Park Estate, Frogmore, AL2 2WH, with additional travel across community locations in Hertfordshire.