We are hiring

The Head of Programmes role at SUFA is an exciting opportunity to lead the operations and management of the UK’s only trade association with a full focus on sustainability in last mile freight. Sustainable Urban Freight Association (SUFA) was formed in July 2025 with a mission to lead the shift towards cleaner, safer and more efficient delivery. The association grew to over 100 members in its first year and is now looking for someone to drive projects, grow membership and oversee the association in its second year.

The Head of Programmes will lead the Association’s secretariat functions to ensure strong governance, provide efficient support to the Co-Chairs and Steering Committee, high-quality member and stakeholder engagement, and smooth operational coordination across policy, events, and communications. The successful candidate will demonstrate their ability to be hands-on in driving projects, achieving strategic outcomes, and leading on member engagement and growth.

Key responsibilities:

  • Provide full Secretariat support to the Board, Committees and membership meetings: agenda-setting, papers, minutes, actions tracking, preparation and distribution.

  • Manage governance cycle: annual calendar, board effectiveness reviews, conflict of interest processes, compliance with company/association rules.

  • Coordinate strategic planning and follow-through: convert Board decisions into clear actions, monitor progress and prepare updates for governance bodies.

  • Build and maintain relationships with members and stakeholders (members, city partners, donors, industry stakeholders); coordinate communications for governance matters.

  • Oversee logistics and delivery for flagship events, conferences and working groups (planning, procurement, vendor management, virtual/hybrid support).

  • Manage contractors and external suppliers; oversee budget for Secretariat and Board activity.

  • Assist with fundraising and donor reporting as required (prepare governance and programme inputs for funders).

  • Ensure organisational policies (risk register, data protection, safeguarding if applicable) are current and implemented.

  • Act as an external representative for the Association in partner meetings and coalitions on governance and operational matters.

Person specification:

  • Experience of working in or running membership-based organisations or industry coalitions.

  • Experience, interest or ability to gain a deep understanding of the urban freight sector.

  • Knowledge of good governance and experience navigating a range of organisational perspectives.

  • Strong communications skills, with experience dealing with external stakeholders in media and local or national government. 

  • Project, event and budget management experience (planning hybrid meetings / conferences).

  • Proactive in managing individuals, and getting tasks done.

  • Able to work independently and manage competing priorities at 0.6 FTE.

We recognise that excellent candidates may not meet every criterion listed. If you are excited by the role and believe you could contribute to SUFA’s work, we encourage you to apply. We welcome applications from people with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.

To apply, please send a cover letter and CV to recruitment@sufa.co.uk. This listing closes Monday 10 August but we will be reviewing candidates and scheduling interviews on a rolling basis. Please get your application in early to avoid disappointment.

Process:

  • First round: Online interview with two co-chairs

  • Second round: Online task

We are looking to have the role starting by 1st October 2026 at the latest.

  • Location: Hybrid / Remote

  • Contract: 1 year with option to extend (funding permitted) 

  • Hours: 0.6 FTE (equiv. 22.5 hrs/week on a 37.5 hr FTE basis)

  • Salary: Up to £55k (pro rata up to £33k)

Interested in this role?