JOB DETAILS

RFL Community Trust - Head of Social Impact

LocationManchester

Categories Sport for Good, Head of Social Impact, Rugby League

Closing Date01 Oct 2026

Fixed Term Contract

About the Organisation

The Rugby Football League (RFL) is the governing body for the sport of Rugby League in the United Kingdom. The RFL Community Trust is a charitable vehicle dedicated to furthering Rugby League's social impact goals, working together with the National Governing Body and the Rugby League Charitable Foundations (CCOs), connected by OuRLeague Life — the sport's social impact brand — to drive significant social change through Rugby League across multiple sectors.

About the Role

The RFL Community Trust is recruiting a Head of Social Impact to maximise Rugby League's proven ability to deliver positive social outcomes, supporting people and communities by tackling inequalities and barriers within society. A central focus of the role is leading the delivery of "Try for Tomorrow," an innovative and inclusive climate action programme funded by over £1.5 million from The National Lottery Community Fund, using the power of Rugby League to inspire positive environmental change across local communities. The role is a Fixed Term Contract for three years, full-time, based in Manchester, with a flexible and hybrid working environment and some travel required.

What You'll Do

Lead the delivery of the "Try for Tomorrow" climate action programme, delivering dedicated educational sessions on food, energy, transport, waste, nature and water to 200 schools, and supporting 100 community clubs to become more sustainable through 'Utility Benches' (multi-banks) as a catalyst for climate action
Further develop Rugby League's role as a national leader in social impact
Manage key relationships with leading national and regional partners across relevant sectors
Support regional Rugby League network groups to take a collaborative working approach in their area
Manage the OuRLeague Life staff team, overall budget, and reporting framework
Lead OuRLeague Life's strategic direction
Lead the co-ordination of key communications events and awareness-raising activations
Work in accordance with the Trust's policies, ensuring all activities are delivered safely and professionally
Assume other duties as required by the Chairman and Board of Trustees

What They're Looking For

Essential

Minimum five years' experience in strong project management
Minimum five years' experience working as a social impact manager or equivalent
Minimum five years' people management experience
Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with public, private and third sector partners
Knowledge and understanding of local, regional and national strategies
Knowledge of how data can be used to improve outcomes and inform workstreams
Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles and their application in the workplace
An appropriate degree
A driving licence and access to a vehicle
NVQ Level 3 in English or equivalent
NVQ Level 3 in Maths or equivalent

Desirable

Current Enhanced DBS Certificate (or willingness to acquire)
Safeguarding and First Aid qualification (or willingness to acquire)
Practical Details
Contract: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years, full-time
Location: Manchester (flexible/hybrid working; travel required)
Salary: Competitive, plus company benefits (exact figure not specified in source)

Closing date: 1st October 2026

How to Apply

Email People.Team@rfl.co.uk with a CV and a cover note/email outlining why you wish to be considered. Accessible application methods are also accepted, including video clip submissions — email for further information on accessible formats.
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