Job overview

Waythrough (formerly Humankind) launched in October 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Our vision is to break down the barriers that stop people getting the support they need to live a life they value. We tackle poverty and disadvantage in communities, through mental health, drug and alcohol, housing and related support.
We have almost 200 services around England – and nearly 3,500 amazing staff and volunteers who run them. Every year our services support around 125,000 people.
Bringing together two big organisations is not a small task and it’ll take a while to fully integrate our systems, processes and approaches. That’s why you will notice the jobs here are still branded ‘Humankind’. Next year we’ll be fully integrating our recruitment systems but for now they are separate.
Thanks for bearing with us – and don’t forget to check out the Waythrough (formerly Humankind) jobs on the Richmond Fellowship and Aquarius job site https://recoveryfocus.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/Recovery_Focus_Careers.

Please note interviews will be rolling and the advert may close early should successful candidates be appointed.

Role

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dedicated team delivering IPS-based supported employment to individuals accessing community substance use services. Your work will be key to empowering people to move into paid employment that respects their aspirations and plays a vital role in their recovery journey.

You will oversee the day-to-day operations of the service, support and manage staff, and help build strong relationships with employers, treatment teams, and local partners to create real opportunities for people.

Responsibilities

As an IPS Lead Employment Specialist, you will be responsible for:

  • Leading and supporting a small team to deliver high-quality IPS employment services.
  • Providing tailored employment support including coaching, CV writing, interview prep, job fairs, and employer engagement.
  • Working assertively with people in treatment to support them into work and sustain employment.
  • Building effective partnerships with stakeholders, employers, and skills providers.
  • Accurately maintaining data and contribute to monthly/quarterly reports.
  • Traveling regularly across Exeter, Barnstaple, and Newton Abbot as required.

The person

To succeed as an Lead IPS Employment Specialist, you will ideally have:

  • Experience or understanding of the substance misuse sector.
  • Background in employment support (e.g. IPS, recruitment, careers advice).
  • Confident communicator with strong people skills.
  • Experience managing a team and supporting casework supervision.
  • Understanding of challenges faced by vulnerable people in recovery.
  • Knowledge of personalised approaches to employment support and recovery.