Muslim Charities Forum
The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. Job role: Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change Employer: Muslim Charities Forum Salary: £42 000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote) Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years. Location: London SE1. Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North Closing date for applications: 16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified. About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. Role Purpose The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim-led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. The postholder will work closely with key stakeholders, including policymakers, government departments, funders, infrastructure bodies, and sector leaders, to address structural inequalities, unlock resources, and elevate the recognition of Muslim-led charities in British society. This role will involve both coalition-building and strategic campaigning to create lasting change within the sector. Working in collaboration with MCF s policy, communications, advocacy, and research teams, the Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will ensure a coordinated approach that drives long-term, sector-wide capacity improvement and sustainable impact. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Systemic Change Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy focused on driving systemic change that enhances the impact and sustainability of Muslim-led charities. Identify and dismantle structural, institutional, and policy barriers that hinder the growth and success of Muslim-led organisations. Lead efforts to address disparities in funding, representation, and support for Muslim-led charities, advocating for more equitable resource allocation. Champion inclusive policies that promote equity in representation and resource distribution for Muslim-led organisations across the charity sector. External Engagement & Partnerships Build and maintain impactful relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, government officials, and sector leaders. Work with funders and mainstream sector partners to unlock resources and support for Muslim-led organisations, ensuring equitable access to funding and opportunities. Develop strategic alliances and coalitions with infrastructure and umbrella organisations across the charity sector to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and systemic change. Collaborate with civil society partners to advance inclusive policy frameworks and advocate for equitable funding practices. Position MCF as a key voice in coalition-building efforts and as a strategic campaigner on issues affecting the Muslim charitable sector. Policy, Advocacy & Communications Collaborate closely with MCF s policy, communications, and advocacy teams to design and implement integrated strategies for policy influence. Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy briefings, consultation responses, and advocacy campaigns aimed at driving systemic reform and addressing sectoral inequalities. Lead strategic campaigns that amplify MCF s core messages and policy priorities to diverse audiences, including decision-makers and key influencers. Represent MCF at parliamentary, sectoral, and public events to advocate for policy change and elevate the profile of Muslim-led charities. Research & Insight Work with MCF s research team to generate insights and data that inform systemic change and strengthen advocacy efforts. Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for funders, policymakers, and other influential stakeholders. Use research to identify emerging trends and challenges within the Muslim charitable sector, developing proactive solutions to address these issues. Collaboration & Representation Represent MCF externally with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the organisation s values of inclusion, collaboration, and faith sensitivity. Act as a thought leader and advocate for Muslim-led charities in both public and private sector forums, driving change through advocacy and coalition-building. Management Lead designated members of the team, overseeing work and line management where appropriate. Person Specification Essential: Significant experience (minimum 5 years) in driving systemic change within the charity, public, or civil society sectors. In-depth understanding of the UK charity landscape, particularly the challenges faced by minority or faith-based organisations. Proven track record of building and nurturing strategic partnerships with policymakers, funders, and senior stakeholders. Expertise in policy development, advocacy, and influencing key stakeholders to achieve long-term change. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Strong strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to connect research, policy, and advocacy to drive meaningful outcomes. A commitment to MCF s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and collaboration. Desirable: Experience in coalition-building or cross-sector partnership development. Understanding of frameworks for systemic change (e.g., systems thinking, collective impact). Familiarity with the British Muslim charitable ecosystem and its role in social change. What We Offer: The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK s most dynamic faith-based networks. A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. Application Information: To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. Please include two referees (one of whom should be a recent manager). We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. Reasonable adjustments are available on request throughout the recruitment process. We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). No agencies. UK residents only. Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. Job role: Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change Employer: Muslim Charities Forum Salary: £42 000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote) Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years. Location: London SE1. Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North Closing date for applications: 16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified. About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. Role Purpose The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim-led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. The postholder will work closely with key stakeholders, including policymakers, government departments, funders, infrastructure bodies, and sector leaders, to address structural inequalities, unlock resources, and elevate the recognition of Muslim-led charities in British society. This role will involve both coalition-building and strategic campaigning to create lasting change within the sector. Working in collaboration with MCF s policy, communications, advocacy, and research teams, the Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will ensure a coordinated approach that drives long-term, sector-wide capacity improvement and sustainable impact. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Systemic Change Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy focused on driving systemic change that enhances the impact and sustainability of Muslim-led charities. Identify and dismantle structural, institutional, and policy barriers that hinder the growth and success of Muslim-led organisations. Lead efforts to address disparities in funding, representation, and support for Muslim-led charities, advocating for more equitable resource allocation. Champion inclusive policies that promote equity in representation and resource distribution for Muslim-led organisations across the charity sector. External Engagement & Partnerships Build and maintain impactful relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, government officials, and sector leaders. Work with funders and mainstream sector partners to unlock resources and support for Muslim-led organisations, ensuring equitable access to funding and opportunities. Develop strategic alliances and coalitions with infrastructure and umbrella organisations across the charity sector to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and systemic change. Collaborate with civil society partners to advance inclusive policy frameworks and advocate for equitable funding practices. Position MCF as a key voice in coalition-building efforts and as a strategic campaigner on issues affecting the Muslim charitable sector. Policy, Advocacy & Communications Collaborate closely with MCF s policy, communications, and advocacy teams to design and implement integrated strategies for policy influence. Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy briefings, consultation responses, and advocacy campaigns aimed at driving systemic reform and addressing sectoral inequalities. Lead strategic campaigns that amplify MCF s core messages and policy priorities to diverse audiences, including decision-makers and key influencers. Represent MCF at parliamentary, sectoral, and public events to advocate for policy change and elevate the profile of Muslim-led charities. Research & Insight Work with MCF s research team to generate insights and data that inform systemic change and strengthen advocacy efforts. Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for funders, policymakers, and other influential stakeholders. Use research to identify emerging trends and challenges within the Muslim charitable sector, developing proactive solutions to address these issues. Collaboration & Representation Represent MCF externally with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the organisation s values of inclusion, collaboration, and faith sensitivity. Act as a thought leader and advocate for Muslim-led charities in both public and private sector forums, driving change through advocacy and coalition-building. Management Lead designated members of the team, overseeing work and line management where appropriate. Person Specification Essential: Significant experience (minimum 5 years) in driving systemic change within the charity, public, or civil society sectors. In-depth understanding of the UK charity landscape, particularly the challenges faced by minority or faith-based organisations. Proven track record of building and nurturing strategic partnerships with policymakers, funders, and senior stakeholders. Expertise in policy development, advocacy, and influencing key stakeholders to achieve long-term change. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Strong strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to connect research, policy, and advocacy to drive meaningful outcomes. A commitment to MCF s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and collaboration. Desirable: Experience in coalition-building or cross-sector partnership development. Understanding of frameworks for systemic change (e.g., systems thinking, collective impact). Familiarity with the British Muslim charitable ecosystem and its role in social change. What We Offer: The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK s most dynamic faith-based networks. A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. Application Information: To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. Please include two referees (one of whom should be a recent manager). We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. Reasonable adjustments are available on request throughout the recruitment process. We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). No agencies. UK residents only. Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
Muslim Charities Forum
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy Employer: Muslim Charities Forum Salary: £42 000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote) Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years. Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North Closing date for applications: 16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified. About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. Role Purpose The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors. The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making. They will work collaboratively with MCF s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact. Key Responsibilities 1. Strategy and Leadership Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF s organisational objectives. Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks. Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture. 2. Policy, Research and Insight Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society. Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF s policy positions. Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements. 3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement Lead MCF s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks. Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders. Coordinate MCF s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums. Strengthen MCF s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector. 4. Sector Capacity and Member Support Engage MCF s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy. Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members influencing capacity. Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage. 5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF s policy and advocacy work. Provide regular progress reports to the CEO. Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements. Person Specification Essential Criteria Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector. Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change. Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment. Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape. Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work. Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy. Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen. Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society. Desirable Criteria Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations. Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities. Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks. Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives. Values and Behaviours Strategic and forward-thinking leadership. Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders. Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments. Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector. Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices. Additional Information This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel. What We Offer The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK s most dynamic faith-based networks. A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. Application Information To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). No agencies. UK residents only. Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy Employer: Muslim Charities Forum Salary: £42 000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote) Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years. Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North Closing date for applications: 16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified. About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. Role Purpose The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors. The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making. They will work collaboratively with MCF s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact. Key Responsibilities 1. Strategy and Leadership Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF s organisational objectives. Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks. Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture. 2. Policy, Research and Insight Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society. Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF s policy positions. Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements. 3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement Lead MCF s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks. Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders. Coordinate MCF s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums. Strengthen MCF s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector. 4. Sector Capacity and Member Support Engage MCF s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy. Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members influencing capacity. Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage. 5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF s policy and advocacy work. Provide regular progress reports to the CEO. Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements. Person Specification Essential Criteria Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector. Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change. Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment. Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape. Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work. Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy. Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen. Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society. Desirable Criteria Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations. Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities. Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks. Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives. Values and Behaviours Strategic and forward-thinking leadership. Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders. Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments. Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector. Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices. Additional Information This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel. What We Offer The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK s most dynamic faith-based networks. A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. Application Information To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). No agencies. UK residents only. Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
