Head of Operations and People – OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway

Are you a dynamic and organised leader, ready to inspire and support a dedicated team of staff and volunteers? Energetic, yet calm and composed at a senior level? If you’re excited about using your professional experience to make a difference to young people, this could be the perfect role for you!

This is an exciting opportunity to take on a senior leadership role at OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway, where no two days are ever the same!

While we are in our pre-opening phase, the role will focus on developing the Youth Zones back-office functions, undertaking all necessary tasks, planning and preparations to ensure we are fully operation at opening. This will include setting up our HR function ahead of recruiting our wider team and supporting staff wellbeing, development, and compliance.

We’re looking for someone who can juggle multiple roles, tackle new challenges daily, and make a real impact on the lives of young people and the community.

Read the role profile

About the Head of Operations and People role

The Head of Operations and People role is a key position at the Youth Zone. When open, as part of our Senior Management team, you’ll lead and manage our back-office functions, ensuring we deliver the best possible service to the thousands of young people who rely on us. We’re looking for an experienced and professional operational manager who can manage multiple teams and being the go-to person for ensuring our environment is safe, welcoming, and efficient—so our frontline teams can focus on delivering life-changing experiences for young people.

In this role, you’ll also serve as the secretariat for the Board of Trustees and oversee monthly payroll administration. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our Youth Zone and make a real impact!

Key dates

Closing date: 12 noon on 5^th June 2026

(We may close this role early if we receive a high volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.)

First stage interviews (online): 16^th July 2026

Second stage interviews (in-person): 23^rd July 2026 at a location local to Tilbury