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- Tasks: Lead volunteer development across the UK and overseas, supporting recruitment and engagement.
- Company: Join SSAFA, a trusted charity supporting the Armed Forces community.
- Benefits: Flexible remote work, travel opportunities, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Empower volunteers and create a positive impact for those in need.
- Qualifications: Experience in volunteer recruitment and strong IT skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A maternity cover role leading our volunteer development work across Wales, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and our overseas branches. The Volunteer Development Team implements volunteering good practice by supporting SSAFA volunteer managers to attract, recruit, induct, support, and celebrate volunteers. The postholder will recruit our volunteer caseworkers themselves and will work closely with regional offices, branches and multiple departments to ensure a positive volunteer journey. The role includes remote work with overseas branches (time differences may require flexible virtual meetings). There will be travel to meetings within the UK.
The Volunteer Development Team is a relatively new group within SSAFA, developed as part of SSAFA@140 – a strategic change programme. The team of six VDMs supports dedicated regions across the UK and overseas, partnering with volunteers, operational colleagues and other stakeholders to create a sustainable volunteer network that meets SSAFA beneficiaries’ needs.
About You
- Previous experience of recruiting, working with, and engaging volunteers across a geographical area is essential to hit the ground running and build effective relationships with other VDMs and branches in the area covered.
- Excellent understanding of volunteering good practice in recruitment, induction, management and celebration of volunteers to enable you to support local areas to recruit effectively and retain volunteers.
- Ability to manage volunteer data, excellent IT skills, and drive and passion for SSAFA’s cause.
- A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
If you share SSAFA’s values and are passionate about volunteering, please follow the instructions at the end of this advert to start the next step.
About SSAFA
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, is a trusted source of support for the Armed Forces community in their time of need. In 2024 our trained teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 54,000 people, including veterans, serving personnel (regulars and reserves) and their families. SSAFA understands that behind every uniform is a person. We are here for that person and their family, any time they need us and in any way they need us.
Diversity and Inclusion at SSAFA
SSAFA exists to support a diverse range of beneficiaries within the armed forces community, and we believe diversity within our teams is key to delivering our services effectively. We thrive on differences and are committed to being an equal opportunity workplace. We encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and other groups that bring diverse perspectives to our business. We are committed to using the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) to safeguard those we serve.
Further Information About The Role
If you have any queries or would like to speak to someone about this role, please contact Nancy Elkins at Nancy.Elkins@SSAFA.org.uk or Amy Bartlett at Amy.Bartlett@ssafa.org.uk to arrange an informal discussion.
How To Apply
Click on ‘Start your application’ now. If you need any adjustments to support you with the application process, please contact recruitment@ssafa.org.uk
Closing date Midnight on 8 February 2026. SSAFA reserves the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of suitable applications is received.
Interviews 23 or 24 February 2026.
Volunteer Development Manager employer: SSAFA the Armed Forces charity
Contact Detail:
SSAFA the Armed Forces charity Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former volunteers at SSAFA through LinkedIn or local events. Building connections can give us insider info and help you stand out when it comes to interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for volunteering! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers, share personal stories about your volunteer experiences. This will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for virtual meetings! Since this role involves remote work, practice your video call skills. Make sure your tech is sorted and find a quiet space to avoid distractions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with recruiting and managing volunteers. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for volunteering!
Showcase Your IT Skills: Since managing volunteer data is key, let us know about your IT skills! Whether it’s software you’ve used or systems you’re familiar with, we’d love to see how tech-savvy you are in your application.
Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion: We value diversity at SSAFA, so make sure to mention any experiences or initiatives you've been part of that promote equality and inclusion. This will show us you share our values and understand the importance of a diverse team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, if you have any questions, you can reach out to our recruitment team for support.
How to prepare for a job interview at SSAFA the Armed Forces charity
✨Know Your Volunteer Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of volunteering good practices. Understand how to attract, recruit, and support volunteers effectively. Being able to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past will show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Show Your Passion for SSAFA's Cause
During the interview, express your genuine passion for supporting the Armed Forces community. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to volunteering and how it aligns with SSAFA’s values. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
✨Be Ready for Remote Work Questions
Since this role involves remote work with overseas branches, be prepared to discuss your experience with virtual meetings and managing teams across different time zones. Highlight any tools or methods you use to stay organised and effective in a remote setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Data Management Skills
As the role requires managing volunteer data, be ready to talk about your IT skills and any systems you've used in the past. Bring examples of how you've successfully tracked and analysed volunteer information to improve recruitment and retention efforts.
