WHAT YOU’LL BRING

· A passion for community empowerment and the voluntary sector.
· Positive, inclusive, and asset‑based mindset—ready to listen, value local strengths, and build confidence.
· Commitment to social justice, mental wellbeing, equality, participation, and supporting organisations to succeed.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Degree in Community Development, Social Work, Sociology, or closely related field.
• Minimum two years’ experience working in volunteer development or support role.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

· Knowledge of Volunteer Scotland standards, and familiarity with Saltire Awards process and requirements.

• Demonstrable experience in volunteer recruitment, training, supervision and programme coordination.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to engage diverse groups and build relationships.
• Excellent organisational and time‑management capabilities; ability to juggle competing priorities.
• Competence using volunteer databases, spreadsheets and standard IT tools.
• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion; understanding of access barriers within volunteering.
• Ability to develop and deliver engaging training and induction materials.

WHY THIS ROLE

· A unique opportunity to work across East Ayrshire mobilising volunteers helps tackle social isolation, build social cohesion, and strengthen local resilience.
· The opportunity to champion diversity, accessibility, and meaningful engagement so volunteering truly represents all communities.

JOB PURPOSE

The Volunteer Development Lead plays a pivotal role in attracting, recruiting, training and supporting volunteers across third‑sector organisations in East Ayrshire. You will help build an inclusive, rewarding volunteer environment and embed a positive volunteer culture throughout the region. This is a community‑facing role working closely with local groups and organisational partners.

STRATEGY & ROLE DEVELOPMENT

· Design and promote volunteer programmes aligned with organisational and partner needs.
· Develop clear volunteer role descriptions and create opportunities based on organisational requirements and community insights.
· Partner with Volunteer Scotland to deliver national guidance and best practices locally.
· Support third sector organisations to meet Volunteer Scotland’s Volunteer Charter principles and quality standards