Volunteer and Events Manager

The Volunteer and Events Manager will develop and implement a volunteer strategy and annual RLSS UK plan of events, for all Directorates, which evolves to include opportunities as they arise. To do so successfully, you will be a proactive, dynamic and experienced Volunteer and Events Manager who will lead our centralised management function with passion, excitement and dedication to RLSS UK’s purpose, mission and vision.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead a professional volunteer and events function ensuring supply and demand needs are met across RLSS UK and supporting all teams to embed a consistent and coordinated approach
• To develop, implement and oversee the delivery of the volunteer strategy
• To develop and implement effective strategies, polices and processes to engage and retain volunteers and ensure a high-quality volunteer experience at all stages of the volunteer cycle
• To develop and implement effective event management strategies, policies and processes incorporating all health and safety requirements
• To lead and continuously improve our support to volunteers across the UK and Ireland
• Develop, implement and review an innovative volunteer recognition and reward offer
• To integrate an increasing number of volunteers into RLSS UK’s initiatives and activities, enhancing their experience and maximising their impact regardless of geography and circumstance
• To increase the diversity of volunteers
• To lead the delivery and implementation of our annual National Presentation of Honours Event, annual conference and national lifesaving sports events
• Attendance at Sports Committee and Honours Committee
• Lead research speakers and topics for conferences and workshops
• Speaker management and supporting the Events Executive to send out invitations, receive confirmations and general liaison
• Support membership queries about events and volunteers
• Implement project plans for all events including liaising with key teams such as the RLSS UK communications team
• Attending and managing events on site with the support of the Events Executive
• Venue management and liaison with relevant organisations to ensure smooth delivery
• To manage your team with clear direction and a supportive approach
• To provide guidance on good practices in volunteer management
• To address issues or conflicts promptly
• Ensure appropriate financial management of assigned budgets
• Lead and deliver an annual volunteer survey and analysis to produce meaningful feedback
• Lead and deliver events feedback surveys and take the learning for future implementation
• Work flexibly and collaboratively across all RLSS UK teams and promote all aspects of the organisation
• Willingness to travel occasionally within the UK
• Ability to attend occasional evening and weekend events

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead on and support ad hoc projects as required
• Contribute to the successful operation of the charity by undertaking such other tasks as may from time to time be required including all other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
• Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
• To demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
• To help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.
• Proactively participate in the Society’s equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives and training, and to promote a culture of respect and inclusion for all
• To identify new event opportunities where there is the potential for RLSS UK to raise profile and visibility in communities throughout the UK and Ireland
• To work collaboratively with colleagues from across the organisation to ensure that with any event, the wider benefit to the whole society is always considered

This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Approximately 7+ years’ experience in a volunteer management role
• Approximately 5+ years' experience in a events management role
• Experience of working at a manager level ideally in a membership organisation
• Demonstrable experience of strong project management
• Demonstrable experience in the development and implementation of impactful volunteer engagement strategies
• Demonstrable expertise in defining and driving strategies to achieve step changes in engagement
• Experience of forming partnerships with networks and other organisations which bring mutual benefit
• Demonstrable experience of positively interacting, engaging and influencing at all levels including with internal and external stakeholders
• Demonstrable experience of volunteer retention and acquisition
• Demonstrable experience of delivering events to raise the profile of a cause, retain and grow volunteers
• Demonstrable experience of delivering volunteer-focused solutions within a membership organisation
• Demonstrable experience of effectively implementing relevant processes and policies
• Demonstrable expertise in ensuring appropriate policies and processes are in place to guarantee compliance with regulatory and legislative requirements
• Expertise in developing and continuously adapting a range of volunteer training and competence assessment activities
• High level of proficiency in risk management and mitigation
• Excellent communication, engagement and interpersonal skills
• Excellent presentation, listening and negotiation skills
• Proficiency in CRM software and MS Office applications

Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK
• Understanding and experience of the application of safeguarding laws
• Understanding and experience of the application of Health and Safety laws
• Project management qualification

ABOUT RLSS UK

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education so that everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people enjoy water safely and achieve our vision; communities free from drowning.

WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU

RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including -

• Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
• Private Medical Scheme*
• Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
• Eye Care*
• Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work
• Free RLSS UK Membership
• Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
• Free on-site parking when working from HQ
• Company Events and more!

*Subject to eligibility criteria

YOUR APPLICATION

Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Membership and Education Team 

Closing Date – 11.59pm, Sunday 15th March 2026

Interview Date – Thursday 26th March 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)

Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.

RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.