Each month, we’ll share a snapshot of what we’ve launched, updated or delivered to support you as a member, from new events and resources to opportunities to shape our work. It’s all part of making sure your membership gives you what you need, when you need it. Not yet a member? This is just a taste of what’s on offer – we’d love to welcome you to the network.
Events added to the calendar
New CEO meeting in November
Online, for ACEVO members only
This is an opportunity for CEOs and leaders who have been in their roles for less than a year to connect and learn from one another in an informal setting. The gathering will feature a guest CEO reflecting on their experiences of being a new CEO, breakout discussions and a time to reflect with the wider group. Find out more.
Webinar: The Employment Rights Bill – trade union reforms explained for charity leaders
Online, open to non-members
Is your charity ready for strengthened trade union rights and new employer obligations around notice, access, and engagement? With the Employment Rights Bill nearing Royal Assent, now is the time to get prepared. Join our webinar in collaboration with WorkNest for a session focusing on the Employment Rights Bill’s union-related reforms and the practical steps you and your charity can take to stay protected and compliant. Find out more.
Workshop: Data-driven leadership – enabling smarter decisions for social change
Online, open to non-members
Join us for a dynamic session where we’ll demystify how data can drive better decisions, smarter strategies, and deeper social impact. Learn from peers, gain clarity on your data journey, and leave equipped to lead your team through transformation – no matter where you’re starting from. Find out more.
Workshop: Storytelling that unlocks funding, changes hearts and minds
Online, open to non-members
This half-day workshop will give you the tools to tell clearer, stronger stories about your organisation’s impact – stories that don’t just inform, but inspire. It’s for charity and social impact leaders who want to build more trust, raise their visibility, and secure more funding. Find out more.
New resources and services
The Chief Executive’s First 100 Days
Online resource, available to all to purchase
ACEVO and the Centre for Charity Effectiveness (Bayes Business School) have published the third edition of The Chief Executive’s First 100 Days, supported by Rosterfy. An essential, updated guide to support charity CEOs navigating the critical early phase of their leadership journey. Building on the first and second editions authored by Fiona Ash, this new edition brings fresh insights from extensive research including interviews and focus groups with newly appointed CEOs and chairs from a diverse range of charities. Co-authored by Dr Helen Timbrell, a specialist in organisational development and leadership coaching, alongside Fiona Ash the guide offers a practical roadmap tailored for today’s uniquely challenging charity landscape. Find out more.
Step into your first CEO role with expert support
For ACEVO members only
Stepping up to your first CEO role is exciting, but it can also feel daunting and demanding. That’s why I’m pleased to offer ACEVO associate members the opportunity to access expert, one-to-one support from our trusted recruitment partner, Eastside People. With over 20 years’ experience supporting leaders across the social sector, the team can help you navigate job applications, refine your CV, prepare for interviews and understand your transferable skills. These tailored sessions are available exclusively to associate members at a reduced rate of £99 (usually £125). It’s practical, informed support to help you take that next step with confidence. Find out more.
Other updates
The Civil Society Covenant
The long awaited Civil Society Covenant was officially launched by the Prime Minister at a pioneering Summit in July, bringing together senior leaders from civil society, the impact economy, the civil service and attended by no less than 14 senior political leaders, including a fifth of the Cabinet.
The launch of the Covenant is accompanied by a number of supporting measures including the establishment of a Joint Civil Society Covenant Council, a Local Covenant Partnerships programme, a new civil society forum with HM Treasury, a commitment by the Cabinet Office to review policies and guidance related to their model grant and service contract templates to ensure they and consistent with the principles of the Covenant and a commitment to a mutual exchange and learning programme to include secondments.
ACEVO is proud to have championed the interests and voices of our members and civil society leaders throughout the shaping and development of this significant opportunity for systemic change.Read a summary of the Civil Society Covenant and find out more.
Leadership development advisory panel
We are inviting ACEVO members to join a new Leadership Development Advisory Panel. This group will be made up of CEOs from across the sector, representing a range of career stages and organisation sizes. Its purpose is to provide ongoing insight and feedback to help shape ACEVO’s leadership development offer, ensuring it remains relevant, inclusive, and forward-thinking.
Panel members will be asked to take part in two short digital insight exercises per year, which can be completed at a time that suits them. These contributions will play a vital role in informing both our existing programmes and identifying gaps in our portfolio, helping us better support current and future civil society leaders. If you’re interested in shaping how ACEVO supports leadership across the sector, we’d love to hear from you.