Head of Volunteering Development

We’re looking for a Head of Volunteering Development to lead and inspire new approaches to social action in Somerset.

We are seeking someone who is passionate about volunteering and the huge benefits it can bring for individuals and community organisations. You will explore new and innovative ways of working that help ensure volunteering is accessible to all, well supported, and provides a positive experience for everyone. In addition, you will build strong partnerships across the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector to help bring this vision to life.

Key responsibilities include :

• Engaging with partners, stakeholders and the wider VCFSE sector and build strong relationships to develop and implement a Somerset Vision for Volunteering
• Working with partners across the health system to deliver the Volunteer for Health programme, an initiative that seeks to develop volunteering infrastructure to support health and wellbeing outcomes
• Identifying and developing training support Volunteer Coordinators and Managers so volunteers feel supported
• Working with grassroots community groups to co-produce ways to enable place-based volunteer engagement
• Developing and implement innovative ways to engage new and returning volunteers and address barriers that exist
• Developing and growing our Volunteer Coordinators Forum; a network that allows shared learning, networking and best practice
• Working with the wider Spark Somerset team to develop our digital volunteering platform, Spark a Change, that matches residents of Somerset to a range of volunteering opportunities
• Collect and use a range of quantitative and qualitative data to demonstrate impact and champion the value of volunteering

You’ll bring experience in developing and delivering volunteer opportunities, a strong understanding of the local and national volunteering landscape, excellent communication and partnership-building skills, and the ability to work creatively and independently in a fast-paced environment.

In return, we offer flexible, hybrid working options, a free Employee Assistance Programme, and up to 7.5 hours of volunteering leave per year.

This is a full time role, although we welcome applicants seeking part time or flexible working. The annual salary is £36-£38k (full time equivalent and dependent upon experience).

For further information about the position and who we’re looking for, or to apply, please visit our website.