Director of Volunteering

About the role

Director of Volunteering at Mercy Ships UK provides strategic leadership to recruit, engage and mobilise volunteers for its two hospital ships, supporting the charity’s mission to deliver free life‑changing surgery across Africa.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a multi‑year volunteering strategy that creates sustainable pipelines of medical, maritime and specialist volunteers.
• Lead the full volunteer journey from attraction and recruitment through preparation, engagement, retention and alumni involvement.
• Build strategic partnerships with NHS organisations, Royal Colleges, universities, churches, Christian networks and professional bodies.
• Provide strategic advice to the Executive Director, Executive Leadership Team and Trustees on volunteering trends, workforce risks and growth opportunities.
• Lead, inspire and develop a high‑performing volunteering function, setting clear priorities, standards and measures of success.
• Act as a senior ambassador for Mercy Ships UK, representing its Christian mission with credibility and influence across the sector.

What we offer

• 25 days’ annual leave plus UK bank holidays, increasing up to 30 days with service.
• Employer pension contribution of up to 7%.
• Annual personal learning and development budget.
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support.
• Free on‑site parking and hybrid working flexibility.
• Eligibility for an Enhanced DBS check.