CEO

ukactive CEO

£125,000 + attractive benefits

Central London hybrid (expected >2 days / week in office)

ukactive is the leading not-for-profit membership body for the physical activity sector in the UK. With over 3,500 members we represent the full spectrum of the physical activity sector across the public, private and third sectors.

We are committed to improving the health of the nation, promoting active lifestyles to get "more people, more active, more often", and to working with any organisation who shares this goal.

We are seeking an exceptional, transformative CEO. You will provide strategic, operational and cultural leadership, bringing a sharp commercial focus alongside representing the industry at the highest levels across government, media and industry to drive organisational and sector growth and champion its role in public health, economic growth and social wellbeing.

Working in partnership with our experienced and diverse Board to whom you will provide timely, accurate financial, operational and strategic reporting; and leading, motivating and inspiring the organisation through your Senior Management Team (overseeing Business Operations (including Finance), Membership and Sector Development, and Research, Policy and Communications respectively); your responsibilities will include:

• Developing and implementing a long-term strategy, and leading on organisational planning, performance management and impact evaluation;
• Ensuring robust financial and business planning, reporting and management to support long-term sustainability and effective operational delivery across all programmes and services in alignment with our vision and strategy;
• Delivering a sustainable commercial strategy through building commercial partnerships, overseeing growth of flagship events, and identifying new commercial opportunities (including sponsorships and research collaborations) to grow revenue;
• Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with policymakers, industry bodies and other relevant organisations to influence public policy and funding decisions;
• Overseeing research and insight programmes that support evidence-led policymaking; and

Monitoring industry trends to effectively provide clear direction across membership, commercial, advocacy, policy and research initiatives to unite ukactive's diverse membership base.

The successful candidate must have gained significant executive leadership experience within a mission-driven organisation or relevant commercial environment, with a proven track record in driving effective change and exceptional results through high performing teams and complex programmes. You will be innovative and dynamic in approach and an inspirational leader - calm and approachable; with exemplary communication skills to influence internal and external stakeholders including Ministers and industry leaders. It is imperative that you are both commercially astute and politically aware with a passion for, and belief in, the physical activity sector; and able to balance operational excellence (including a detailed approach to delivery, risk management and governance) with strategic outlook within our fast-paced organisation.

For an informal discussion about the role or process, and to request the candidate pack, please contact Maurice Goldstone at anytime on .

To apply, you must submit your CV with a cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) evidencing your motivations and suitability for the role by no later than Sunday, 1st February, 2026, by emailing via the button below.