Operation officer volunteer roles

What does it look like to lead a charity where community voice sits at the heart of every decision?

Down’s Syndrome Manchester (DSM) is a vibrant, member‑led charity supporting individuals with Down’s syndrome and the families, carers and professionals who walk alongside them. From the earliest days after diagnosis to the milestones of adulthood, DSM creates connection, belonging and the conditions for people to thrive.

With DSM at a pivotal point of growth and change, we’re seeking a Chair who can bring the skills and experience needed to confidently lead the charity through this exciting period of consolidation and development.

Location: Greater Manchester
Renumeration: Voluntary, with reasonable expenses covered
Time commitment: Estimated at approximately 1-2 days per month

About Down’s Syndrome Manchester
You’ll be warmly welcomed into a friendly, member‑led community that has gone through significant recent growth, under the leadership of a talented CEO. From energetic early‑years support to social groups that spark friendships, DSM is now looking to build on its support and advocacy across Greater Manchester.

DSM responds directly to what families need and empowers them to shape the charity’s future. Growing fast and full of potential, we’re now looking to further strengthen foundations and step confidently into the next chapter – guided always by member voice and experience.

About the opportunity
We’re looking for a committed Chair with a pioneering spirit, able to bring steady, compassionate and strategic leadership to a recently developed Board and a dedicated CEO.

You’ll ensure the Board is effective and focused, offer constructive support and challenge to the CEO, and help embed strong governance and decision‑making structures. Holding a strategic view while keeping DSM’s member‑led ethos always front and centre, you’ll create the space for big picture thinking and clarity as the organisation evolves.

Who are we looking for?
While previous Chair experience would certainly be an advantage, we also warmly encourage applications from experienced charity trustees or commercial board members ready to step into a bigger leadership challenge.

We’d particularly welcome people who bring:

• Experience in governance, organisational leadership or strategic oversight
• A calm, focused and relational leadership style
• A commitment to inclusion, equity and lived‑experience‑led decision making
• The ability to bring structure and accountability to a growing charity

Why this role matters
With big, bold and brave ambitions, a rapidly growing membership and an exceptional team ready to deliver, the right Chair will help ensure the charity is fighting fit for the future. You’ll futureproof the organisation to make sure it is:

• Well governed and resilient
• Values led
• Member driven
• Future ready
• Equipped for the opportunities ahead

Are you passionate about helping older people to live well in later life?  Are you able to give your time, expertise and skills as a Trustee to support our charity in its hugely important mission?

This is a fantastic opportunity to join the board of an impactful and influential charity, supporting older residents in Sutton by providing valuable advice and support services regarding health, finances and wellbeing.

A trustee role can be hugely fulfilling, as well as helping you to develop and utilise strategic leadership skills, and work with a diverse and  dynamic team.

We are looking for trustees who can bring their own unique experience and expertise to support the effective governance of our charity, in particular in areas such as data and digital, commercial experience, and knowledge of the health and care sector. An understanding of charity governance, fundraising or an accountancy qualification would be beneficial.

Who are Age UK Sutton?

Age UK Sutton is a small independent charity dedicated to helping older people in our community to live well in later life. We are a network partner of Age UK, the influential national charity, and benefit from membership of a network of similar independent charities across the UK. We deliver a mixture of social and community activities while influencing strategy in Sutton. We provide vital information, expert advice and practical support. Our work enables older people to make informed decisions on finances, health, care, and wellbeing, and enables greater social connection and independence.

Location: Sutton, South West London (and online meetings)

Time Commitment:

• Quarterly Board meetings, three-hour Board meetings held virtually on Teams (twice a year), and alternately face-to-face meetings
• Quarterly Committee meetings (2-3 hours): Fundraising and Enterprise and / or Quality and / or Finance, Risk and Audit (most trustees are expected to attend 2 of the 3 standing subcommittees)
• Trustees with the capacity to do so also have the opportunity to support occasional projects or short-term working groups, supporting the CEO and wider leadership team.

Duration: A 3-year term (may be extended for two further 3-year terms)

Final closing date: Tuesday 1 April

Join the Royal College of Paramedics as Honorary Treasurer
Provide Strategic Financial Leadership at a Defining Moment for the Profession
Time Commitment: approximately 1 day per month (with peaks during budgeting/audit cycles)
Location: a mix of virtual and in person Board/FRAC meetings
Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)

The Royal College of Paramedics (RCoP) is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as its Honorary Treasurer – a pivotal governance role at a transformational moment in the College’s development. As the first lay Treasurer following the granting of Royal status, you will bring fresh perspective, expert financial stewardship, and strategic insight to support the profession into its next chapter.

As the professional body for paramedics across the UK, the Royal College champions excellence in patient care, advances education and research, and supports members working across urgent, emergency, primary, community, and specialist care. With growing membership, and ambitious plans for digital, governance and organisational development, the College requires strong, forward looking financial leadership.

As Treasurer, you will:
* Provide strategic financial leadership and assurance to the Board and Finance, Risk & Assurance Committee (FRAC).
* Strengthen financial governance, reporting and risk management across a maturing organisation.
* Support the Chief Executive and executive team in sustainable, transparent financial planning.
* Enable investment in member value, education, research and professional development.
* Champion inclusive, evidence-based decision making and act as a trusted adviser to the Board.

We are looking for someone with:
* Significant senior-level finance leadership experience, ideally with exposure to charity, public sector or membership contexts.
* Strong strategic finance capability, including planning, budgeting, audit and risk management.
* Confidence working at Board level, offering constructive challenge and clear assurance.
* Excellent communication and partnering skills, able to make finance accessible and build confidence across teams.
* Commitment to inclusive governance, transparency and the College’s mission to advance the paramedic profession.
A professional accounting qualification (AAT, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent) is essential.
Experience in healthcare or the paramedic profession is welcome but not required.

Why now?
The College is moving through a period of significant consolidation and opportunity:
* Embedding its Royal College status
* Responding to membership growth
* Strengthening governance, audit and long-term financial planning
* Delivering key digital and organisational change programmes

Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold the Royal College’s commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, they will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the President. We encourage all interested candidates to submit the questions you would want to ask the Board a week before the webinar and we will address these live during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Thursday 12th March 2026 and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5:00pm Friday 27th March 2026
Interviews: w/c 20th April

We are reopening this role to applicants having paused for some months. The Operations Lead will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of Path to Prosper’s activities. As Operations Lead, you will lead in various administrative, logistical, and operational tasks, enabling the CEO, Board and Operations Team to maximise the charity’s impact. We will also carve out projects for the Operations Lead to run or support on to provide further opportunity for personal growth and support Path to Prosper’s mission and growth. This position is ideal for someone with strong organisational skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Job Title: Operations Assistant (Volunteer Role)

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

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Operations Assistant to support the CEO and Operations Manager in ensuring the smooth running of daily operations. This role will involve working at the heart of the organisation, contributing to both strategic projects and routine administrative tasks.

Initially offered as a voluntary position, this opportunity has the potential to evolve into a salaried role as the organisation continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day operational and administrative support to the CEO and Operations Manager.

• Assist with coordinating projects, ensuring deadlines are met and deliverables achieved.

• Maintain accurate records, systems, and documentation to support efficient workflows.

• Help track budgets, invoices, and expenses in coordination with the Operations Manager.

• Support meeting preparation, including agendas, minutes, and follow-up actions.

• Coordinate logistics for internal and external meetings, events, and travel.

• Liaise with stakeholders, suppliers, and partners in a professional and timely manner.

• Contribute ideas to improve processes and enhance organisational efficiency.

• Provide general administrative support as required across the organisation.

Skills & Qualities We’re Looking For

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

• A proactive, can-do attitude with the confidence to work alongside senior leadership.

• Competence with Microsoft Office Suite and/or collaboration tools (e.g., Google Workspace, project management platforms).

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

• Flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to take on varied responsibilities.

• Previous experience in operations, administration, or project coordination is desirable but not essential.

What You’ll Gain

• Direct experience working with a CEO and Operations Manager.

• A unique insight into both the strategic and operational running of an organisation.

• Opportunities to develop skills in project coordination, administration, and process improvement.

• Flexibility to fit the role around other commitments.

• Clear potential for the role to develop into a permanent, paid position.

Additional Information

This is a volunteer role at the outset. We are committed to supporting your professional development, offering mentorship and opportunities to gain practical, hands-on experience. As the organisation grows, there is strong potential for this position to transition into a paid salaried role.

Chief Operating Officer (COO) – VOLUNTEER

Flexible but Highly Recommended 5–10 hours per week | Shoreditch, London | Start‑Up Youth Social Mobility Charity

About REMIX

REMIX is a start‑up, youth‑led social mobility charity transforming young lives across London. Based in Shoreditch, we empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to unlock their potential, build confidence, and develop essential life skills through nurturing mentorship, inspiring role models, and transformative opportunities.

We are in the exciting early stages of building something bold, vibrant, and community‑powered — and we’re looking for a passionate, entrepreneurial COO (Volunteer) to help shape REMIX’s operational heartbeat from the ground up.

The Role

We are seeking a driven, organised, and people‑centred Chief Operating Officer (COO) (Volunteer) to lead REMIX’s operations and work closely with the CEO (Volunteer) to guide the charity through its start‑up phase and beyond. This is a hands‑on, strategic, and highly collaborative role for someone who thrives in early‑stage environments and loves turning vision into reality.

As COO (Volunteer), you will help build the systems, processes, culture, and operational foundations that will allow REMIX to grow sustainably and deliver high‑impact programmes for young Londoners.

Time commitment: Flexible but recommended around 5–10 hours per week, including:

• Bi‑monthly Board meetings

• Working groups and leadership sessions

• COO (Volunteer) duties, operational planning, partnership building, and organisational development

Key Responsibilities

As COO (Volunteer), you will:

• Lead REMIX’s day‑to‑day operations, ensuring smooth, effective, and values‑driven delivery.

• Work closely with the CEO (Volunteer) to develop and implement organisational strategy, systems, and processes.

• Build operational frameworks for programmes, safeguarding, volunteer management, and quality assurance.

• Support the development of policies, procedures, and internal structures as the charity grows.

• Oversee operational risk management and ensure compliance with charity regulations.

• Foster a positive, collaborative culture across volunteers, mentors, and Trustees.

• Drive innovation, problem‑solving, and continuous improvement across all areas of the charity.

• Represent REMIX with professionalism, warmth, and credibility when engaging with partners and stakeholders.

This role blends leadership, operations, people management, and strategic development — perfect for someone who enjoys variety, pace, and impact.

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need previous COO experience — we welcome people stepping into senior leadership for the first time. What matters most is your passion, your drive, and your ability to lead with purpose.

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about social mobility, youth empowerment, and fairness.

• Entrepreneurial, proactive, and excited by building something new.

• A strong communicator with excellent people skills.

• Confident working collaboratively with the Volunteer CEO, Trustees, volunteers, and partners.

• Equally comfortable working independently and taking initiative.

• Organised, reliable, and able to create structure in a start‑up environment.

• Compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and community‑minded.

Experience in operations, programme delivery, charity management, safeguarding, or organisational development is beneficial — but not essential if you bring strong leadership potential and a willingness to learn.

Why Join REMIX?

• Play a central role in shaping the operational foundations of a start‑up charity with huge potential.

• Help build a movement that champions equity, compassion, and opportunity.

• Influence culture, systems, and long‑term sustainability from day one.

• Work with passionate Trustees and volunteers who care deeply about young people.

• Gain senior leadership experience in operations, strategy, and organisational development.

• Make a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of young Londoners.

This is your chance to build the engine of a movement.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 5pm

REMIX

To empower. To inspire. To transform.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – VOLUNTEER

Flexible Role Recommended 5–10 hours per week | Shoreditch, London | Start‑Up Youth Social Mobility Charity

About REMIX

REMIX is a start‑up, youth‑led social mobility charity transforming young lives across London. Based in Shoreditch, we empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to unlock their potential, build confidence, and develop essential life skills through nurturing mentorship, inspiring role models, and transformative opportunities.

We are in the early stages of building something bold, vibrant, and community‑powered — and we’re looking for a visionary CEO (Volunteer) who can lead REMIX through its start‑up phase and into a thriving, sustainable future.

The Role

We are seeking a passionate, entrepreneurial, and people‑centred Chief Executive Officer (CEO) (Volunteer) to drive REMIX forward with clarity, ambition, and heart. As a start‑up charity, we are building our programmes, culture, systems, partnerships, and long‑term strategy — and your leadership will be central to shaping every part of our journey.

This is a hands‑on, collaborative role for someone who thrives in early‑stage environments, enjoys building from the ground up, and believes deeply in youth empowerment and social mobility.

Time commitment: Flexible but beneficial if around 5–10 hours per week, including:

• Bi‑monthly Board meetings

• Working groups and leadership sessions

• CEO (Volunteer) duties, planning, partnership‑building, and organisational development

Key Responsibilities

As CEO (Volunteer), you will:

• Provide inspiring, strategic leadership as REMIX grows from start‑up to established charity.

• Work closely with the Board of Trustees to develop our vision, programmes, and long‑term strategy.

• Build strong relationships with partners, funders, community organisations, and stakeholders.

• Lead on operational planning, programme development, and organisational systems.

• Shape REMIX’s culture — empowering volunteers, uplifting young people, and championing our values.

• Oversee safeguarding, risk management, and compliance with charity regulations.

• Represent REMIX externally with confidence, warmth, and credibility.

• Drive innovation, opportunity, and growth across all areas of the charity.

This role blends leadership, creativity, operational oversight, and community engagement — perfect for someone who enjoys variety and impact.

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need previous CEO experience — we welcome people stepping into senior leadership for the first time. What matters most is your passion, your drive, and your ability to lead with purpose.

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about social mobility, youth empowerment, and fairness.

• Entrepreneurial, proactive, and excited by building something new.

• A strong communicator with excellent people skills.

• Confident working collaboratively with Trustees, volunteers, and partners.

• Equally comfortable working independently and taking initiative.

• Organised, reliable, and committed to our mission.

• Compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and community‑minded.

Experience in charity leadership, youth work, programme development, fundraising, or organisational growth is beneficial — but not essential if you bring strong leadership potential and a willingness to learn.

Why Join REMIX?

• Lead a start‑up charity with huge potential and a powerful mission.

• Shape the vision, culture, and long‑term direction of a youth‑led movement.

• Build programmes, partnerships, and systems from the ground up.

• Work with passionate Trustees and volunteers who care deeply about young people.

• Gain senior leadership experience in strategy, governance, and organisational development.

• Make a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of young Londoners.

This is your chance to lead a movement into the future.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 5pm

REMIX

To Empower. To Inspire. To Transform.

ROLE TITLE: Deputy CEO (Volunteer) – Men’s Mental Growth Movement

CATEGORY: Senior Leadership / Deputy CEO / Operations & Strategy

CAUSES: Mental Health / Men

ROLE TYPE: Volunteer (Remote / Flexible)

JOIN MINDSET

MINDSET is building a new model for men’s mental growth — one built on challenge, brotherhood, and action, not waiting rooms. We’re a volunteer‑powered UK CIO with a bold mission and a powerful brand. Now we’re recruiting a Deputy CEO (Volunteer) to help steer the organisation as we scale nationally.

THE ROLE

As our Deputy CEO (Volunteer), you are the Founder and CEO's right hand — a strategic partner, a stabilising force, and a leader who keeps the whole movement aligned. You help run the charity day‑to‑day, shape our long‑term direction, and ensure that every squad, system, and safeguard is built for impact. You report directly to the Founder and CEO (Volunteer).

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Leadership Across the Movement — Support and mentor Squad Leads (Tech, Admin, Marketing, People, Frontline) to ensure cohesion, clarity, and momentum.

• Strategic Delivery — Turn vision into executable plans, ensuring our mission, programmes, and partnerships move forward with discipline.

• Operational Stewardship — Strengthen internal systems, rhythms, and processes so a fast‑moving volunteer organisation stays aligned and accountable.

• Governance & Safety — Work closely with the Safeguarding Lead and Admin Lead to uphold gold‑standard UK CIO governance, safeguarding, and compliance.

• Partnerships & Growth — Identify opportunities for collaboration, funding, and expansion that help us reach more men across the UK.

• Deputise for the CEO — Step in for the Founder and CEO (Volunteer) when required, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision‑making.

WHO YOU ARE

• A senior leader with experience as a Deputy CEO, COO, MD, or equivalent, confident in both strategy and operations.

• Someone who thrives in start‑up environments and can bring structure without slowing momentum.

• A leader who balances action‑first energy with compliance‑first safety, especially in a men’s wellbeing context.

• A volunteer who wants to be a founding pillar of a national movement helping men grow, not just cope.

• Calm under pressure, values‑driven, and committed to building a culture of challenge, care, and accountability.

COMMITMENT

This is a volunteer role with no set hours. While we’d ideally appreciate 4–8 hours per week, we are fully flexible around your life commitments. You are free to stop volunteering at any time. The role is fully remote.

APPLY

Send your up‑to‑date CV and tell us about a leadership role where you helped take an organisation from early‑stage to scale, and why you’re ready to help build a movement that helps men thrive through challenge, connection, and growth.

Children of Voices is a hugely respected charitable organisation helping to improve the lives of young people and their families through genuine care, love, and support.  

We are currently seeking a volunteer Personal Assistant/Office Manager. This role is ideal for an individual with experience as a P.A./Manager looking to work within the charity sector. 

Responsibilities typically include: 

• Acting as a first point of contact for enquiries: (email/calendar management and phone calls, managing diaries 

• Typing, compiling, and preparing reports, presentations, and correspondence. 

• Miscellaneous tasks to support the CEO which will vary according to projects and tasks but could include fundraising, event planning, social media, community outreach, press & PR. 

• Managing databases and filing systems. 

• Implementing and maintaining procedures/policies & administrative systems 

• Forming a relationship with our clients as they are part of the community. 

Essential skills for this role are: 

• Organisation skills: The ability to prioritise tasks, manage time, and keep track of deadlines is crucial.  

• Communication skills: should be able to communicate effectively in writing. 

• Attention to detail: the ability to pick up on small details can prevent costly mistakes from occurring. 

• Problem-solving skills: the ability to identify and resolve problems quickly and efficiently.  

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. The organisation has a warm and friendly atmosphere and will be extremely rewarding for the candidate. 

ROLE TITLE: Chief Operating Officer (Volunteer) – Men’s Mental Growth Movement

CATEGORY: Senior Leadership / COO / Operations

CAUSES: Mental Health / Men

ROLE TYPE: Volunteer (Remote / Flexible)

JOIN MINDSET

Vision is nothing without execution. MINDSET is a start-up action‑first, volunteer‑powered CIO that trades clinical “waiting rooms” for real‑world challenge, brotherhood, and growth. We have the mission, and the brand. Now we need a Chief Operating Officer (Volunteer) to run the engine room and turn ambition into impact.

THE ROLE

As our Chief Operating Officer (Volunteer), you are the operational heartbeat of the movement. You translate the Founder and CEO's vision into systems, structure, and momentum. You’ll help lead our start‑up charity with clarity and discipline, ensuring our growth is scalable, safe, and high‑impact. You report directly to the Founder and CEO (Volunteer).

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Squad Leadership — Mentor and coordinate our Squad Leads (Tech, Admin, Marketing, People, and Frontline) so every team moves with purpose.

• Operational Excellence — Build and maintain our “Mission Roadmap,” ensuring strategy becomes action and action becomes measurable results.

• Governance & Compliance — Partner with the Safeguarding Lead and Admin Lead to uphold gold‑standard UK CIO governance and safeguarding practice.

• Strategic Growth — Spot opportunities for partnerships, funding, and expansion that strengthen our national movement for men’s wellbeing.

• Systems & Structure — Shape the processes, rhythms, and culture that keep a fast‑moving volunteer organisation aligned and accountable.

WHO YOU ARE

• A seasoned leader, COO, MD, or senior operator who knows how to build teams and scale organisations.

• Someone who can balance action‑first energy with compliance‑first safety.

• A volunteer who wants to be a founding pillar of a national movement helping men grow, not just cope.

• A calm, structured presence who thrives in start‑up environments and loves turning vision into reality.

COMMITMENT

This is a volunteer role with no set hours. While we’d ideally appreciate 4–8 hours per week, we are fully flexible around your life commitments. You are free to stop volunteering at any time. The role is fully remote.

APPLY

Send your up‑to‑date CV and tell us about a team you’ve taken from start‑up to scale, and why you’re ready to help men thrive through challenge, connection, and growth.

We are seeking a passionate and strategic Head of Communications to lead our communication efforts and enhance our visibility. The role involves working closely with the CEO and collaborating with other members of the operations team to develop and implement effective communication strategies that resonate with our stakeholders, support our growth and amplify our charity's impact. This individual will have a budget to conduct campaigns and work with our partners in communications to ultimately grow our donor base.

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

About the Role

We are looking a capable and reliable Officer within IT & Systems to support the IT & Systems function and provide operational cover for the Head of IT & Systems when required. This role exists to ensure continuity of systems, user support, and core IT processes in the event of absence, increased workload, or unexpected issues.

Reporting directly to the Head of IT & Systems, you will help manage day-to-day systems, respond to support requests, and handle joiner and leaver processes. The role is hands-on, practical, and focused on keeping things running rather than long-term architecture or strategy. Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role, with no financial compensation or future paid opportunities attached. We encourage you to apply if you have relevant/transferable skills for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the day-to-day operation of internal systems, including user access, permissions, and basic configurations.
• Monitor and respond to IT and systems support requests, escalating issues where appropriate.
• Supporting new starter and leaver processes, including account setup, access changes, and offboarding.
• Assist with the administration of Bitrix, ClickUp, Teamplate, or similar platforms.
• Maintain clear documentation for processes and common issues.
• Provide operational cover for the Head of IT & Systems during periods of absence or unavailability.
• Handle ad hoc systems tasks and problem-solving as they arise.

What We are Looking For

We are looking for someone dynamic with the skills and experience to make a positive impact. This role suits someone practical, calm under pressure, and comfortable working without close supervision. You will be a strong fit if you have:

• Proven experience in IT support, systems administration, or helpdesk-style environments.
• Hands-on experience managing user accounts, access control, and routine systems tasks.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, helpdesk tools, or internal business platforms.
• Experience working with tools such as Bitrix, ClickUp, Teamplate, or comparable systems.
• The ability to work independently and manage tasks at your own pace while meeting agreed expectations.
• A strong sense of ownership and reliability.
• Previous experience in volunteer-led or non-profit organisations is a bonus.
• Comfort working fully remotely and supporting users virtually.
• Strong work ethic and collaborative attitude.
• A passion for the charity work, a genuine belief in the mission of Youth Advantage UK and a commitment to making a difference.
• Previous experience in volunteer-led organisations is a bonus.
• Remote working experience or comfort with managing teams virtually.

What You will Gain

· Practical experience acting as a key operational contact within an IT and systems function.

· Exposure to real-world continuity planning and operational risk management.

· The opportunity to build confidence in owning systems processes end-to-end.

Important Information

This role is completely voluntary. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. It is ideal for experienced HR professionals looking to give back, stay active in leadership, or contribute to a values-led organisation in a meaningful way.

Apply Now

If you're passionate about fundraising and want to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Help us unlock new opportunities for Youth Advantage UK and join our dedicated team of changemakers today.

The Organisation

Rethink Mental Illness is a leading mental health charity in England, dedicated to supporting people severely affected by mental illness to improve their lives, regardless of how challenging circumstances may feel. The charity works to create lasting change across health and social care systems, public attitudes, and the everyday experiences of people living with mental illness across the country.

People with lived experience of mental illness are central to everything Rethink Mental Illness does. Their insight shapes trusted advice, information, and more than 200 services, including housing and employment support, carer services, and legal advice. These voices also drive campaigns to challenge discrimination and influence legislative change, while their diverse experiences help ensure services are inclusive and accessible. Rethink Mental Illness believes that people severely affected by mental illness can have a good quality of life and is committed to making this a reality.

The Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Board of Trustees of Rethink Mental Illness as Chair of the Audit and Assurance Committee. This role operates alongside, and does not replace, the broader responsibilities and duties of charity trusteeship.

Responsibilities of the Audit & Assurance Committee Chair

Leadership and Direction

The Chair will:

• Chair all meetings of the Audit and Assurance Committee and provide effective leadership and direction.

• Maintain a clear understanding of the committee’s duties and responsibilities.

• Commit the necessary time and bring strong business, financial, communication and leadership skills.

• Demonstrate excellent working knowledge of corporate governance, accounting practices, internal control functions and risk management frameworks.

• Champion open and constructive discussion, while maintaining appropriate discipline and ensuring meetings are effective and complete their agendas.

• Be prepared to ask challenging and, where necessary, difficult questions with tenacity.

• Ensure committee members understand their responsibilities and feel able to raise matters of concern.

• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with the Chair of Trustees, Vice-Chairs, Treasurer, Chief Executive and executive team, External Audit Partner and Internal Audit Lead.

• Plan the work of the committee in conjunction with the executive team, agreeing a rolling forward plan and agendas in advance of meetings.

• Review the effectiveness of each meeting, seeking feedback from members and attendees.

Governance

The Chair will:

• Ensure the committee maintains its independence and avoids assuming responsibilities beyond its remit.

• Act as the Charity’s Whistleblowing Champion, ensuring regular review of the effectiveness and operation of the Whistleblowing Policy.

• Lead oversight of external and internal audit arrangements, including appointment and performance review.

• Ensure the committee holds at least annual private sessions with the CFO, External Audit Partner, Internal Audit Lead and the Treasurer (ex-officio member).

• Promote and participate in regular formal self-assessment of the committee against appropriate professional standards.

• Ensure that the committee’s work and key issues are clearly communicated to the Board.

Development of the Committee

The Chair will:

• Work with the Honorary Officers Committee to ensure an appropriate balance of skills and experience within committee membership.

• Meet at least annually with each committee member to review engagement, gather feedback, address performance issues and identify development needs.

• Foster the right culture within the committee, encouraging constructive challenge and positive questioning.

• Ensure appropriate induction and training support is provided for both new and existing committee members.

The Person

Rethink Mental Illness is seeking individuals who can confidently balance strong commercial awareness and financial sustainability with a deep commitment to the charity’s purpose and values, bringing a thoughtful perspective that looks beyond profit alone.

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• A good understanding of the mental health sector and the wider challenges facing charities supporting people with severe mental illness.

• Strong financial literacy, with qualified accountant status desirable, and experience overseeing financial reporting, risk management, internal controls and audit.

• A strong understanding of charity governance, with experience in the charity or not-for-profit sector desirable.

• An analytical and constructive approach, with the confidence to provide appropriate challenge while supporting collaborative, values-led decision-making.

Rethink Mental Illness warmly welcomes applications from people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, religions, ages and from disabled people, and actively encourages applications from groups that are underrepresented.

How to Apply

Applicants are invited to submit:

• An up-to-date CV, including details of two referees (who will not be contacted without prior permission).

• A supporting statement outlining how they meet the criteria in the person specification and their motivation for applying.