Operation officer volunteer roles

STAMMA is the leading charity for people who stammer in the UK.  We’re a small, award-winning organisation with big ambitions and a brilliant community, keen to create space and respect for people who stammer.

Stammering has historically been the target for humour and used to suggest inadequacy, leaving many who stammer facing daily ignorance, discrimination and disrespect.  This can affect job prospects and mental health, and cause depression and social isolation. It can make booking a GP appointment a nightmare, and prevent people from accessing a service altogether, leaving them feeling humiliated, degraded or disbelieved.  We’re here to change that.

We’ve a clear strategy for the next five years to achieve real and practical change for people who stammer by highlighting the inadvertent barriers they face within the workplace and as service users. We want to reach more people who stammer and grow our supporter base, but to do that we need to expand our training and advocacy services, whilst underpinning our helpline and family support.

We want to appoint a new Trustee with significant skills and experience within the charity sector to the Board. You’ll need to share our excitement and ambition for change. It isn’t essential that you stammer. This is an unpaid position, but travel expenses can be covered.  Trustee terms are for four years, and you will be expected to attend all Board meetings, up to five times a year, usually on a Saturday, either in-person at different locations across England, or online. There are also sub-committees and informal planning and preparatory discussions, usually held online.

We are looking for someone with experience of one or more of the following:

• Experience of working at a senior level in the voluntary sector, across more than one organisation, with a good understanding of how charities operate and are governed.
• Insight and leadership of people and culture (HR) function and/or service delivery and operations, and a passion for building inclusive, effective organisations
• Previous experience as a trustee or board member. Ideally having chaired a sub committee, board or similar.
• The ability to offer occasional support to the staff team during the working day (roughly two hour per month), providing guidance, insight or a sounding board when helpful
• Lived experience of stammering — whether personally or through close connection — so that the voices of people who stammer are at the heart of our work

Person Specification

• Values-led, with demonstrable passion and commitment to STAMMA and its strategic objectives.
• Proven track record as a senior leader with strategic experience within the charitable sector.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship with an ability to balance the boundaries between different leadership roles.
• Strong interpersonal skills (listening, tact and diplomacy) and relationship-building abilities.
• Ability to challenge constructively and ask questions appropriately.
• Team player, who respects and values the views of others and is able to speak their mind with tact and diplomacy.
• A commitment to EDI values and principles, including an understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Ability to commit the necessary time to the role.

As a Trustee at STAMMA you would be expected to: 

• Develop and agree our long-term strategy.
• Ensure compliance with governing documents and regulations.
• Ensure that resources are spent in accordance with our Articles.
• Work with the Board to set goals and assess performance.
• Ensure that the organisation is run efficiently and financially stable.
• Protect the charity’s assets and ensure surplus funds are properly invested.
• Manage the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the CEO.
• Uphold STAMMA's values.

Do you share our vision of affordable and accessible mental health counselling, and want to be at the forefront of our mission to do more, for those in need, through a sustainable charitable enterprise? 

Evolve counselling is seeking additional experienced senior leadership professionals to join us as Trustees (voluntary) in general governance roles and also specialists in mental health and counselling therapies (delivery and standards), plus commercial business development – to contribute to our sustainability and growth ambitions. 

We are focussed on creating a platform for growth, to meet the surge in demand for counselling therapies. With a recent change of Chair, other new Trustees joining the board, and the retirement of our current CEO on the horizon, this is a time of change and the next three years are crucial for success. 

We welcome applications from individuals with backgrounds in any of the following areas:  

• Business strategy and planning  

• Commerce/industry/NHS/Government 

• Charitable Governance - and the Nolan Principles of public life 

• Working at senior strategic levels within the charity/CIO sector  

• Financial management  

• Legal expertise  

• Experience of leading in health services, mental health, advocacy, or advice services  

It is, of course, crucial that all our trustees can commit to bring time, energy, engagement, and expertise to our work. In addition to taking decisions on major matters they participate though committees and working groups, guiding and encouraging the efforts of our small and resolute management team though their own experience and contacts. 

Details 

Trustee – Evolve Counselling CIO (1181861)  

• Location: Remote/Cambridgeshire area  

• Voluntary role: Reasonable expenses paid.  

• Time commitment: The board meets 4-5 times per year mostly online, with an AGM in person meeting, and four committees meeting at various intervals. An average commitment is about 1-2 days per month outside office hours. 

• Term: Negotiable. Trustees generally commit to a three-year term, extendable by re-election. 

• Application closing date: Applications are sought on a rolling basis. 

About Us:  

Evolve Counselling is a long-established charitable social enterprise, providing low cost, affordable or funded mental health counselling to adults in Cambridgeshire and surrounding counties. Our counselling community is made up of 50 – 60 qualified self-employed practitioners, working part-time. We deliver talking therapies to adults – online and in person. Our service delivers around five hundred counselling sessions per month to a broad range of individuals, many of whom would not otherwise be able to access counselling support. Evolve also provides supervision, reflective practice, critical incident support, and mental health awareness and related training, to organisations and businesses large and small.  

Who we’re Looking For:  

Our Trustee Board is currently drawn from the counselling and therapies community, plus commercial, public sector, and other charity backgrounds. Now, with crucial development of the CIO ahead, we are looking for new members to expand the Board to its maximum ten places and to gain skills and insight from an equal, diverse and inclusive group that takes in business skills, knowledge of charities, expertise in health services, and experience of not-for-profit leadership and finances, to make growth plans a reality.  

The Board will keep us on track with good governance through oversight of our work and will also help our new CEO to secure a sound financial base from which to grow our operations to meet the ever-increasing demand for our services.  

Application process: Please email your CV and letter of application stating why you’d like to become a Trustee at Evolve Counselling and how your skills and experience align with our plans for growth. Following that, our Chair or CEO will be in touch to set up an informal discussion of the role. 

Closing date: Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis, but early application through April/May 2026 is encouraged.

The British Society for Heart Failure (BSH) is seeking an experienced senior leadership professional to join our Board as the Appointed Trustee for Operations and the CEO link – a vital role to join the eminent Heart Failure clinical experts that make up our Board, in our mission to reduce heart failure mortality and improve patient care across the UK.

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee of the British Society for Heart Failure (BSH), the leading UK charity dedicated to improving care for people living with heart failure. Our work supports education, research, collaboration, and national awareness - all aimed at improving outcomes for the nearly 1 million people in the UK living with this serious condition and the further 400,000 estimated to be undiagnosed.

We’re at an exciting stage of growth, with a new team, a new strategy launching this summer, and bold plans for the future.

As Appointed Trustee, you will provide strategic leadership oversight to a respected national charity with an annual income of £1.5 million. You will play a key role in supporting our flagship strategic commitment, 25in25, which aims to reduce deaths from heart failure by 25% in the year following diagnosis over the next 25 years. 

We are seeking an experienced senior operations professional with a recognised qualification or extensive experience and a strong track record in senior leadership roles in successful organisations. You’ll have excellent communication skills and be confident supporting strategic decisions at board level. Charity experience is desirable but not essential. 

BSH is a registered charity and professional membership organisation governed by a Board of Trustees, mostly elected from our 1,300 members - heart failure clinicians including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. The Trustee is a co-opted position, appointed for their senior leadership expertise.

Our team is small and mostly remote, with occasional co-workling usually in London. The Board consists of 9 volunteers and is supported by over 50 active committee members working across education, research, and regulatory affairs.

Our Values

• Collaborative - we seek out experts, resources and influence to achieve more.
• Evidence-based - our work, our policy & our campaigning is grounded in quality research & robust evidence.
• Inclusive - we value and empower a diverse, UK-wide multidisciplinary community

Trustee Duties

All Trustees are expected to:

• Uphold BSH’s mission, values, and governance.
• Act in the charity’s best interests, ensuring compliance and minimising risk.
• Participate in Board meetings and contribute to at least one committee.
• Use personal expertise to add value and support innovation.
• Seek professional advice when necessary.

Additional Appointed Trustee - Operations and CEO Link Responsibilities

• Monitor the Charity's organisational health, ensuring systems, processes and organisational capabilities support delivery of the agreed strategy. Ensure robust reporting is in place. 

• Advise the Board on the organisational implications of strategic and operational plans.

• Monitor compliance with relevant governance, regulatory and employment requirements.

• As a Link Trustee, oversee, with the Chair, the performance management of the Chief Executive Officer.

• Chair the CEO Performance and Remuneration Panel.

• Provide guidance on the Charity’s people policies and practices.

• Offer expert insight on fundraising, policy, lobbying and commercial activity.

This is a voluntary, unremunerated position. The Board meets 4-5 times per year (2 in-person, in London). Average time commitment is 1-2 days per month. Trustees serve a three-year term, renewable once. Travel expenses are reimbursed, and full induction provided.

To apply, please provide:

• Your CV (max 3 pages, including 2 referees)

• A supporting statement (max 2 pages), outlining your motivation for applying and confirming that you meet the requirements in Part 1 of the Person Specification and detailing how you meet the criteria in Part 2 of the Person Specification

Timetable:

• Closing date:  Sunday 26th April 2026 (11.59pm) 

• Final interviews:  May 20th 2026 (digitally)

• Commencement of term:  May/June 2026 

• First formal Board meeting:  June 10th 2026 

As the People and Culture Officer for the Business and Operations Team, you will support a positive, inclusive, and well‑functioning team culture. Your focus is on volunteer experience, recruitment, wellbeing, and people‑related practices specific to this function. This role supports how the Business & Operations team attracts, welcomes, and retains volunteers, while promoting healthy ways of working and clear expectations.

What you will do

Team Culture

· Support a positive, respectful, and collaborative culture within the Business & Operations team.

· Help reinforce shared expectations around communication, accountability, and ways of working.

· Promote wellbeing and help flag early signs of volunteer overload or disengagement.

· Support internal communications and engagement initiatives

Recruitment

· Support recruitment activity for roles within the Business & Operations team.

· Help draft, review, and refine role descriptions to ensure clarity and consistency.

· Assist with coordinating recruitment processes (e.g. reviewing expressions of interest, arranging conversations, maintaining basic records).

· Ensure prospective volunteers receive a positive, welcoming, and values‑aligned recruitment experience.

· Work with the Business and Operations Manager to identify recruitment needs within the team.

Onboarding, Engagement, and Retention

· Support onboarding and induction of new volunteers joining the Business & Operations team.

· Help ensure new team members understand their role, responsibilities, and who to go to for support.

· Contribute to engagement and retention initiatives specific to Business & Ops (e.g. check‑ins, feedback, recognition).

Volunteer People Support

· Act as a first point of contact for Business & Ops team members for general people‑related questions or concerns.

· Provide informal support and guidance, escalating issues to the Business and Operations Manager where appropriate.

· Support fair, consistent, and compassionate handling of routine people matters within the team.

Feedback and Improvement

· Encourage open, two‑way communication within the Business & Operations team.

· Help gather feedback on how the team is functioning and share themes with the Business and Operations Manager.

· Support continuous improvement in team processes and people practices.

What you will bring

· An interest in people support, recruitment, team culture, or volunteer wellbeing

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills

· Empathy, discretion, and sound judgement

· An organised approach, particularly around recruitment and onboarding tasks

· A calm, approachable, and supportive manner

· Reliability and respect for confidentiality

· Comfort working in a remote, volunteer‑led environment

Purpose of the role

Are you passionate about health justice and human rights? Join us as our new Treasurer!

The purpose of the Board of Directors is to provide leadership, guidance, checks and balances on the structure and operation of the organisation.                                                                                                                                                                           

The Board of Directors:

• Fulfils the duties and responsibilities of Company Directors

• Advises on and approves strategic plans, annual roadmaps, and budgets, and any changes to these

• Identifies any risks to the organisation and advises on these

• Advises on and approves organisational policies and commitments, including grant and commercial agreements

• Advises on and approves organisational structure, including the structure and composition of the Board and any other Boards and Committees it deems necessary

• Provides oversight on the Executive Director, including their appointment, performance reviews, remuneration decisions, and delegated powers

Additional duties as Treasurer:

• Chair the Finance and Risk committee

• Monitor the financial sustainability of the organisation

• Take a lead in interpreting financial information to fellow Directors

• Support the team in their participatory budget setting process

• Make sure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external support are reviewed regularly 

• Provide guidance on the preparation of the annual accounts where necessary

• Provide ad-hoc support to the Senior Operations Officer who deals with the day-to-day finances (using Xero)

• Support the production of management accounts 

“Our dedicated Directors form a great team that I love being a part of. We really care about the work and staff team, and we're keen to add value through our expertise as well as being eager and open to learning. Through mutual respect and listening to each other our meetings and interactions are really fruitful. I know I get a lot out of being part of this team and the opportunity to support the great work of Just Treatment.”

Adina Claire, Chair

“We’re very excited to be adding a Treasurer to our board. As we’re launching into our next four year strategy we need to build our board to create a team that can help us meet this moment. Our financial sustainability and the stewardship of our treasurer are central to this.”

Diarmaid McDonald, Executive Director

The Practicalities

Time commitment:

We have four full board meetings per year. Three of these are online and last for two hours, and one longer full day meeting is in person (likely in London. All costs will be covered). Directors are expected to attend these, and come prepared, having read all board papers in advance.

We have additional committees such as Finance and Risk, and the Treasurer will be expected to chair this committee. There may be other events that Directors are invited to attend, and other opportunities to get involved. We also expect that Directors will provide ad hoc support based on their expertise and available time, with the Treasurer working with the Senior Ops Officer, Executive Director, and Chair to prepare and secure support for our budget and other key financial processes. We estimate the time commitment to be around one day per month (with peaks during the financial cycle). 

What qualities should our board members have?

Our Board members are diverse while all having:

• Alignment with Just Treatment’s values

• Commitment to Just Treatment's mission

In addition the Treasurer should bring:

• Significant senior-level financial background 

• Experience of risk management

• Confidence working at Board level

• Charity or non-profit experience is desirable 

Our Board includes people who have:

• lived experience of the issues we work on

• experience leading and growing non-profit organisations in the UK, including leading their strategy and planning cycles, and fundraising efforts

• experience with different organisational forms and governance structures

• experience with shaping organisational cultures, policies and processes

• knowledge of health policy and health justice

• understanding of campaigning, advocacy, and organising practice

Clean Break is looking to appoint a Treasurer to deliver the organisation’s mission through good governance, fit for purpose financial systems and deliverable financial plans through strong partnership working with staff and trustees.

The Treasurer plays a key role in the organisation, working closely with Clean Break's Co-Chairs, the Executive Director (Interim), the Head of Finance & Operations, and fellow Trustees.

This is an important and rewarding role, which will make a significant contribution to Clean Break's mission and support our strategic delivery.

The main responsibilities of the Treasurer include:

• Chair the Finance Committee and provide regular reports to the Board of Trustees.
• Collaborate with the Co-Chairs and Executive Director to ensure that the Board is empowered to fulfil its financial responsibilities in an informed and timely manner.
• Work with the Executive Director and Head of Finance & Operations to ensure that the charity’s finance and risk management systems are fit for purpose.
• Work with the Executive Director and Head of Finance & Operations to develop and test robust financial plans and to monitor progress against the agreed plans.
• Provide support and, where appropriate, professional development opportunities for the Head of Finance & Operations and other finance staff.

To find out more about the role and apply, please download our Information Pack.

The role of a Treasurer is an unpaid, voting role sitting on the UK Board of Trustees and reporting to the Chair of Trustees. In line with our policy, all trustees initially start in a non-voting advisor role to ensure that both they and the board are happy to formalise the trusteeship before transitioning to a full voting trustee position.

The Treasurer will work with the UK Operations Manager and the UK board of trustees to share the responsibility for overseeing the financial health and sustainability of Sreepur Village and will liaise with the Overseas Director based in Sreepur Village.

Treasurer Role

· Oversee the financial affairs and ensure they are legal, constitutional and within accepted accounting practice 

· Review the appointment of new auditors and work to ensure financial reports are clear and timely 

· Hold monthly budget review meetings with the UK Operations Manager to oversee accounting and financial controls

· Ensure appropriate risk management is in place and is reviewed by the board on a regular basis

· Introduce new financial forecasting and reporting systems and ensure protocols and processes are appropriate

· Be main point of contact with the investment fund managers and oversee investment policy

Governance Role

• Contribute to the strategic planning process
• Be an ambassador for Sreepur Village representing the organisation and linking it to its stakeholders.
• Attend at least three meetings a year (virtual or in person) or as advised by the Chair of Trustees if the number of meetings changes.
• Attend or host fundraising events, where possible.
• Respond to emails and other correspondence within five working days or an agreed time frame

Sembeza Africa

We deliver Quality Physical Education using sports and Traditional African Games to empower Ugandan youth.

Executive Assistant for the CEO

We are looking for an Executive Assistant volunteer to support the CEO of Sembeza Africa. You will handle core administrative tasks, coordinate volunteer operations and contribute ideas for income generation. 
You are expected to:

• Manage the CEO’s calendar, meetings, communication and office workflow.
• Prepare documents, presentations, and materials for executive meetings and Board sessions.
• Organize approved travel plans and process related expenses.
• Keep accurate, confidential files for the CEO’s office.
• Generate practical ideas for fundraising and identify possible income streams.
• Draft initial proposals and pitch materials for donors or partners.
• Coordinate daily support for field volunteers, including logistics, transport stipends, credit allocation, and expense processing.
• Act as the main communication point for volunteer operational requests.

Skills and Qualifications

• At least one year of administrative or executive support experience.
• Ability to manage complex schedules and high-volume tasks.
• Strong communication skills.
• Confident with basic budget tracking and financial organization.
• High proficiency in Google Workspace.
• Ability to work independently and handle tasks with initiative.
• Commitment to Sembeza Africa’s mission.

Minimum Hours per Week:

4-6 hours per week

Duration:

6+ months

Role Overview

GHRI is seeking a detail-oriented volunteer accountant to help manage and maintain transparent financial operations. If numbers are your love language and accountability is your personality, babe… this role is screaming your name.

�� Key Responsibilities

Maintain accurate financial records and reports

Track donations, grants, and project expenses

Assist in budget planning and financial forecasting

Ensure financial activities align with regulatory standards

Support preparation of reports for partners and donors

✅ Requirements

Degree or background in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Basic knowledge of financial reporting and bookkeeping

Attention to detail 

Integrity and transparency in handling funds

Interest in non-profit or humanitarian finance

�� Why Volunteer With GHRI?

Gain experience in non-profit financial management

Strengthen your CV with international NGO exposure

Work with purpose, not just spreadsheets

Be part of a mission that improves healthcare access

Job Title: Personal Assistant to the CEO (Volunteer Role)

Location: London -Hybrid / Remote
Contract Type: Volunteer (with potential to become a paid salaried role)
Hours: Flexible - up to 20 hours per week

About the Role

We are looking for a motivated and reliable Personal Assistant to support our CEO with day-to-day responsibilities. This voluntary role offers a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience working closely with a busy CEO, supporting both business and personal commitments, while building valuable skills in executive support and leadership administration.

While this position will initially be unpaid, there is strong potential for it to develop into a salaried role as the organisation continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide proactive diary and inbox management for the CEO.

• Schedule and coordinate meetings, calls, and travel arrangements.

• Assist with the preparation of agendas, presentations, and follow-up actions.

• Act as the first point of contact with internal and external stakeholders.

• Manage confidential information with the utmost discretion.

• Support with ad hoc personal tasks and lifestyle management, as required.

• Undertake general administrative duties, including filing, expenses, and record keeping.

Skills & Qualities We’re Looking For

• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.

• Discretion, integrity, and professionalism in handling sensitive matters.

• Competence with Microsoft Office Suite and/or digital collaboration tools.

• A proactive and adaptable approach, with the ability to work independently.

• A positive and approachable attitude, with strong interpersonal skills.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to work closely with a CEO and gain insight into executive-level leadership.

• Hands-on experience in administration, coordination, and project support.

• The opportunity to build a long-term role as the organisation expands.

• Flexibility to fit around other commitments.

Additional Information

This is a volunteer role to begin with, so flexibility and commitment will be key. We are committed to ensuring that your time with us is rewarding, developmental, and supportive, with the real prospect of progression into a permanent salaried role in due course.

Lead Volunteer Role Description

• To update the Volunteers’ Rota from the Court diary and ensure that each Volunteer in the team and the CCSS office has a copy. Wherever possible, the Rota should be kept on a computer for updating and emailed to the rest of the team and the office. 

• Ensure sufficient numbers of Volunteers are on duty for effective and appropriate support for bereaved families and witnesses who attend the Inquests.

• To arrange and re-arrange the Rota between the Volunteers, noting any holiday or leave of absence dates.

• Ensure a finalised Rota is sent to the office at the end of each month in order for volunteer expenses to be checked and processed.

• To ensure that all the Volunteers have each other’s contact details and the Volunteer emergency contact details are included in the court file and updated when changes occur.

• To ensure monthly and yearly statistics are kept up to date and to send the Monthly Statistics to the Volunteer who collates the stats at the end of each month.

• To ensure there are sufficient Report Forms for the Volunteers’ use if collecting stats in paper format.  If alternative methods of collecting stats are used, to ensure that the team are all using the same method.

• To inform the Operations & Training Manager and the CCSS office of the need for more Volunteers or of any leavers.

• To assist with the recruitment interviews and induction of new Volunteers.

• Responsible for the support of new Volunteers and their final sign off.  Where the Lead Volunteer has concerns about the level of support required or the competency of a new Volunteer, they should refer those concerns to the Operations & Training Manager.

• To organise Volunteer team meetings (minimum of 3 meetings per year) and to inform the Operations & Training Manager and the CCSS office via email of the dates of these so they can attend if necessary/appropriate.

• To immediately refer any serious concerns raised by the Coroner or Coroner’s Officers to the CEO.

• To inform the CEO immediately of any issues or concerns that arises at the Court that might impact on the CCSS.

• To provide local information for the Helpline Court Information Sheet when requested.

• To ensure the team follow the practices of the court and work in partnership with the court staff.
• To forward any testimonials about the support provided by our volunteers to the CCSS office.

• Responsibility for maintaining the stock of CCSS leaflets.

• Organise cover for themselves when they are on holiday or need to take time off.

We’re looking for up to three Trustees to help guide Hackney Empire through an exciting period of growth, creativity and deepened community impact.

As a member of our Board, you will play a vital strategic role in shaping the future of Hackney Empire. You’ll support our mission to empower young people, champion diverse artistic voices, and strengthen our connections within our local community and the wider cultural landscape.

We’re particularly keen to hear from individuals who share our values, have strong strategic and advocacy skills, and bring experience in arts management, fundraising, legal practice, heritage/buildings projects, or digital and social media strategy, as well as people whose lived experience reflects the communities we serve.

Disabled and D/deaf people are currently under-represented at Hackney Empire, we will offer an interview to anyone who identifies as D/deaf or disabled if they are able to demonstrate they meet the person specification.

Recognising under-representation of people from the global majority in our Heads of Department Team, we actively encourage people from the global majority to apply for this role.

Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.

As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances. 

• Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.

• Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.

Role Summary 

The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will: 

• Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees. 

• Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.

• Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning 

• Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance. 

• Oversee the development and observation of financial policies 

• Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy

• Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action. 

• Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)

• Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.

• Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.

• Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.

• Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants 

• Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero

• Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report

• Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.

The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.

Person Specification 

The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation. 

Essential 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas

• Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.

• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information 

Desirable 

• A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations. 

• An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer. 

• Good communication and competent IT skills 

• Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills. 

About Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide. 

What We Do 

RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including: 

• France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris 

• Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base) 

• Northern Iraq: Duhok 

• Serbia: Belgrade Barracks 

• Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp 

• Turkey: Istanbul 

• Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border

• Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides) 

• Palestine: Gaza

• Egypt: Cairo

Our Approach 

RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.

Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.

Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts. 

Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers. 

We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care. 

Advocacy & Awareness 

RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action. 

Honorary Treasurer (Trustee)

Foundation for Science and Technology

The Foundation for Science and Technology is at the heart of the UK’s science and technology policy landscape. For nearly 50 years, we have provided an independent platform bringing together Parliamentarians, civil servants, industry leaders, researchers and charities to explore the most pressing issues shaping the future of science, innovation and public policy.

From artificial intelligence and quantum technologies, to net zero, research culture and skills, the Foundation convenes informed, cross-sector debate and supports the development of future leaders across the UK science and technology ecosystem.

As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2027, we are seeking an Honorary Treasurer to join our Trustee Board and play a key role in supporting the Foundation’s continued impact and sustainability.

The role

As Honorary Treasurer, you will be a full member of the Trustee Board, sharing collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the Foundation.

This is a non-executive role, focused on governance, oversight and constructive challenge. As a trustee, you will contribute to the stewardship of the Foundation, helping to ensure its financial sustainability, integrity and long-term success.

In addition to your general responsibilities as a trustee, you will:

• Provide oversight and assurance on the Foundation’s financial position, ensuring appropriate controls and compliance with charity law and good practice
• Support the Board in scrutinising financial reporting, including budgets, forecasts and annual accounts
• Offer insight and constructive challenge on financial planning, risk and long-term sustainability
• Contribute to Board-level thinking on income generation, including sponsorship and grants
• Act as a source of financial insight and support to fellow trustees and the Chief Executive

About you

You will bring:

• Senior financial expertise, whether from accountancy, finance leadership or equivalent experience
• Experience of financial oversight and governance
• An understanding of, or interest in, the charity sector
• The ability to work effectively as part of a Board, providing both support and appropriate challenge
• An interest in science, technology, research or innovation policy

Just as importantly, you will bring sound judgement, curiosity and a collaborative approach, with the ability to see both detail and the wider strategic picture.

Time commitment

Approximately three hours per month, plus attendance at three Board meetings per year, typically in London.

Why join us

This is an opportunity to contribute to an organisation that sits at the interface of science, technology and public policy in the UK, helping to ensure that important decisions are informed by evidence, insight and cross-sector collaboration.