Chief Operating Officer
Arthritis UK
Office based (London or Sheffield) with a minimum of 40% office attendance
£125,000 per annum on a full-time permanent basis
Today, 20.8 million people in the UK – almost one in three of us – are living with an MSK condition of which over half are due to arthritis. These conditions affect muscles, bones, joints and connective tissues. They can affect anyone, at any age, from children to working-age adults and older people.
Arthritis and other MSK conditions are the most common cause of disability and a leading cause of long-term stiffness, pain and fatigue. Together, these symptoms can affect every aspect of life, from being able to move free from pain and live independently, to caring for a family and the ability to enjoy hobbies and a social life. Too often, they rob people of independence, agency and dignity, and can drive loneliness and isolation.
Our vision is a future where everyone with arthritis lives a life without limits. We work towards this by funding world-class research, providing trusted information and support, influencing policy, campaigning for change and working alongside people with lived experience to ensure their voices shape everything we do.
THE ROLE
This is an exciting point in our journey. We have a clear strategy, a talented and committed team, and an ambitious vision for the future. We are continuing to strengthen our organisational capability so that we can increase our impact for the millions of people who rely on us.
The Chief Operating Officer will play a pivotal role in helping us achieve that ambition.
As a key member of the Executive Team, you will help shape the future direction of Arthritis UK while ensuring we have the operational excellence, financial resilience and organisational infrastructure needed to deliver our strategy. You will lead critical corporate services, support our people to thrive, champion continuous improvement and ensure we remain a well-governed, inclusive and sustainable organisation.
This is far more than a traditional operational leadership role. We are looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery; someone who can inspire confidence, build strong relationships across the organisation and beyond, and lead with empathy, integrity and curiosity. Above all, we are seeking a leader who shares our commitment to improving the lives of people with arthritis.
INFORMATION
Download the candidate brief to find out about the role.
DOWNLOADTimeline
Closing date: Friday 25th September 2026
Preliminary interviews: w/c Monday 12th October 2026
Arthritis UK Panel Interviews: w/c Monday 26th October
Arthritis UK Final Panel Interviews: w/c Monday 2nd November 2026
How to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:
- Your CV (no more than three sides).
- A supporting statement (no more than two sides) that sets out why you think this role is the right move for you and how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria.
We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.
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