Operations Manager

Ensures the smooth and effective running of Luton Foodbank

Job Description

Salary: £30,000 per annum (Pro rata, based on a full-time equivalent of £37,500)
Hours: 30 hours per week
Contract Type: Fixed-term – subject to continued funding
Location: Office-based in Luton
Reports to: CEO

Job Purpose

The Operations Manager will provide operational and people management support to the CEO, helping ensure the smooth and effective running of Luton Foodbank. A key focus of this role will be to support the development of the Food Club project, helping to establish and embed this new area of work.

The role will oversee day-to-day operations, staff management, HR processes, project coordination, monitoring and evaluation, and funding compliance. The postholder will play a key role in strengthening organisational systems, supporting staff performance, and ensuring projects and services are delivered effectively, within budget and relevant funding requirements.

This role is suited to an organised, proactive, and people-focused individual who thrives in a fast-paced charity environment.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Project Management

- Support the development of the Food Club project.
- Coordinate implementation plans, timelines, and internal systems for Food Club delivery.
- Monitor outcomes and reporting related to the Food Club.
- Support the day-to-day operational management of the charity.
- Coordinate organisational projects and operational priorities.
- Develop and improve internal systems and processes.
- Support implementation of strategic and operational plans.
- Ensure effective communication and coordination across teams.
- Support compliance, organisational policies, and operational procedures.

People Management & HR

- Support management and supervision of staff.
- Conduct regular 1:1 meetings and performance check-ins.
- Monitor staff objectives and KPIs.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and staff induction.
- Maintain HR records and support HR administration.
- Promote staff wellbeing, accountability, and positive culture.
- Support management of absence, performance, and employee relations issues where required.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

- Support organisational monitoring and evaluation processes.
- Track and report on KPIs and project outcomes.
- Collect and analyse impact data and service information.
- Assist with reports for funders, trustees, and stakeholders.
- Help develop case studies and evidence demonstrating impact.

Funding & Compliance Support

- Support grant monitoring and reporting requirements.
- Coordinate collection of evidence and outcome data for funders.
- Ensure reporting deadlines and compliance requirements are met.
- Maintain accurate organisational records and documentation.
- Support budget monitoring and financial administration, ensuring accurate records and effective use of resources.

Person Specification

Essential

- Experience supporting the implementation of new projects or services.
- Experience in community-based programmes or membership/food access models.
- Ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders during project set-up.
- Experience in operations, project management, or charity management.
- Experience managing or supervising staff.
- Understanding of HR and people management processes.
- Strong organisational and administrative skills.
- Experience monitoring performance, KPIs, or service outcomes.
- Ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Good IT skills including Microsoft Office and data management systems.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Luton Foodbank.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent professional experience.
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Desirable

- Experience working within the charity sector.
- Knowledge of safeguarding and compliance requirements.
- Experience supporting funding reports or monitoring returns.
- CIPD qualification or relevant HR training.
- Experience in community or social welfare services.
- PRINCE2 Foundation qualification.

Benefits

Flexible part-time working arrangements
Pension contribution
Training and development opportunities
Opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the local community
Supportive and values-driven working environment

How to apply

There are two ways to apply. You only need to do one.

Complete and submit the online form below, or
Download the form, print and complete it, then send to
Luton Foodbank Ltd,
Unit 3,
High Town Enterprise Centre,
York Street,
LU2 0EZ.

Download the application form, print and complete it, then send to

Luton Foodbank Ltd,
Unit 3,
High Town Enterprise Centre,
York Street,
LU2 0EZ.

Closing date: Monday 8 June, 2026

0 days 00 hr 00 min 00 sc

APPLICATION FORM

SECTION A - PERSONAL DETAILS

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The council has to undertake certain enquiries relating to the appointment of staff working with children, the elderly and people with a disability. You must be prepared to accept that if short-listed, your present employer and/or immediate past employer (or last employer relating to the relevant client group) may be contacted. Will you please therefore indicate the full name and address of your present employer and/or past employer, as well as the other referee you nominate. Applications will not be considered if this information is not given.

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SECTION C - EXPERIENCE AND RELEVANT SKILLS

Tell us how you meet the essential requirements of the job. Please refer to the person specification for more information.

The 'person specification' lists what is required of a candidate to enable them to do the job and whether those requirements are 'essential' or 'desirable'. You must demonstrate how you meet all the essential requirements in order to do the job.

The shortlisting panel will decide who to invite to interview by comparing section C with the 'person specification'.

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