Graduate business development officer volunteer roles
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Could you use your business connections to help more people leave homelessness for good?
We're looking for well-connected business professionals in Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester to become Standing Tall Connectors.
Standing Tall – What We Do
Standing Tall is a social business that helps people rebuild their lives after homelessness through a stable job, a safe home and one-to-one support across 8 UK cities. Our model works: 4 out of 5 people are in work, living independently and thriving 12 months later.
As we continue to grow, we are launching a network of volunteer Connectors to help expand our reach within the business community.
The Role
We are looking for purpose-driven professionals with strong business connections to become Standing Tall Connectors in Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester.
This is an unremunerated volunteer position for individuals who believe in our mission and want to use their local networks, influence and business connections to help more people leave homelessness behind for good.
Connectors will represent Standing Tall within local business communities, attend networking events, and build relationships with businesses that want to be part of the solution to homelessness, either as Employer Partners, providing permanent entry-level jobs, or as Mission Partners, whose investment of £1,000 + VAT over 12 months helps one person leave the streets for good.
This role is ideal for someone who:
- Is passionate about making a tangible social impact
- Enjoys connecting people and opening doors
- Has strong local business relationships
- Wants to contribute their skills and network to a meaningful cause
Key Responsibilities
The primary role of a Connector is to leverage their networks, attend relevant business events and identify opportunities to engage prospective corporate partners.
While there is no prescriptive approach to the role, Connectors are expected to help secure £12,000 + VAT of Mission Partner investment annually – enough to help 12 people leave the streets for good.
This may be achieved through a number of relationships and introductions, or through a smaller number of highly engaged partners. Our focus is on creating meaningful connections that help more businesses become part of the solution to homelessness.
Connectors are also encouraged to help identify prospective Employer Partners and facilitate introductions to the Standing Tall team.
Time Commitment
Connectors will sign up for a 12 month term that starts in July.
Generally speaking, we would anticipate that Connectors will:
- Attend approximately 1–3 business events per month
- Make introductions and connections where opportunities arise
- Participate in occasional meetings with the Standing Tall Team
We are flexible and understand availability may vary.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
We are seeking individuals who:
- Believe strongly in Standing Tall’s mission and values
- Have an established network within their local business community
- Are confident communicators and relationship-builders
- Are proactive, professional and enthusiastic
- Are comfortable attending events independently and representing Standing Tall
- Can commit time consistently throughout the year
Experience in business development, partnerships, sales, leadership, entrepreneurship or community engagement would be highly valuable.
What You’ll Receive
While this is a voluntary and unpaid role, Connectors will receive:
- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives
- Recognition and visibility as a Standing Tall Connector
- A toolkit with key messaging and marketing collateral
- A dedicated Standing Tall contact for onboarding and ongoing support
- Opportunities to connect with local Talent Scouts and the wider Standing Tall team
- Regular updates on our impact, partnerships and progress
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Purpose of the Role
To join the board as a Volunteer Finanical Director, bringing governance knowledge and strategic thinking to strengthen board effectiveness, uphold the CIC's obligations, and ensure all decisions are made in the best interests of the community we serve.
Role and Responsibilities
1. Guide the Board
- Attend two to three board meetings per month, virtual or hybrid, and come prepared to contribute
- Help ensure decisions are made properly, recorded, and followed through
- Review and respond to decisions outside of meetings within 48 to 72 hours
- Support the review of policies and raise questions when something needs attention
- Support the development of projects and programmes by contributing ideas, strategic thinking, critical insight, and creative, innovative approaches, while bringing energy, boldness, and enthusiasm.
2. Keep Us on Track
- Contribute to strategic decision-making, policy approval, and organisational oversight
- Monitor organisational performance and support the Managing Director in delivery accountability
- Flag risks early and help ensure resources are used well and in line with our mission
- Keep the needs of the communities we serve at the centre of every decision
3. Be a Critical Friend
- Challenge and support the Managing Director with honesty and care
- Ask the questions that need to be asked, even when it is uncomfortable
- Help us grow in a way that is sustainable and grounded in our values
4. Champion What Matters
- Be an ambassador for Zion Wellness in how you show up and speak about us
- Participate in bi-directional mentorship exchanges with young people on the programme
- Ensure safeguarding, inclusion, and community interest are never an afterthought
What We Are Looking For
You will bring:
- A strong professional background in finance, budgeting, and strategic financial planning
- Confident, values-led leadership with the ability to represent the CIC's mission at board level
- A background in leadership, social impact, or community outreach
- Experience in creative direction, entrepreneurship, or project leadership
- Understanding of organisational strategy, stakeholder engagement, and partnership development
- A genuine commitment to systemic change and the communities we serve
It would be great if you also have:
- Governance experience such as trustee, governor, or board-level involvement, though this is not essential
- Experience in a charity, CIC, or grassroots organisation
- Training and induction will be provided for the right candidate
Please Note:
This role is open to graduate and university students (aged 18+) who are looking to gain real leadership and governance experience. If you are early in your career and passionate about community impact, we want to hear from you. Ongoing support will be provided.
To apply, please send a CV and a cover letter of 600 to 1000 words telling us why this role appeals to you and what you would bring to the board.
We welcome graduates and university students applications ages 18-30 with a UK citizenship. Please do not be put off if you do not meet every criterion listed. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with a closing date of 1st June 2026. We encourage you to apply early - good luck.
our core purpose is to dismantle health inequalities by placing wellbeing within reach of communities where it is most needed.