Chief Executive Officer
Closing date: Wednesday 30 September 2026
Location: Tyne & Wear
The Opportunity
Sense Ability Matters (SAM) is a well-established North East charity that empowers people with sensory impairment, disability and long-term health conditions to live independently, improve wellbeing and have their voices heard.
SAM is looking for a visible, values-led and commercially minded Chief Executive Officer to lead the charity into its next stage of growth.
Building on a good local reputation and sustainable financial foundations, this is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a respected, community-led organisation serving people across North East England.
SAM exists to empower people with sensory impairment, disability or long-term health conditions, helping them access the tools, confidence, support and voice they need to live independently and make positive decisions. Its vision is for the region to have a disabled and sensory loss community that is informed, empowered and resilient.
The Role
As CEO, you will work closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, members, partners and funders to set strategic direction, deliver effective services, strengthen sustainability and increase SAM’s reach and impact. You will lead a committed operational team, champion high-quality person-centred services, develop new income opportunities and act as an external ambassador across public, health, voluntary and community networks.
The Person
We are looking for a senior leader with proven experience of organisational growth, transformation or income diversification. You may already be a CEO, Deputy CEO or senior leader ready to step into a Chief Executive role. What matters most is your ability to combine commercial judgement with charitable purpose, build trust quickly, operate hands-on in a small organisation and lead with warmth, resilience, integrity and ambition.
This is a role for someone who listens deeply, acts decisively and believes communities should help shape the services that support them.
Next Steps
If you are ready to lead an organisation with strong foundations, meaningful purpose and real potential for future impact, we would welcome your interest.
To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV and a supporting statement outlining your interest in the role and email to Charlotte Owen (opens email).
For more information, read the candidate pack below (opens PDF):
Sense Ability Matters Chief Executive Officer Candidate Pack July 2026 (PDF, 4 MB)
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