Volunteer Network Development Officer

Job Description

Volunteer Network Development Officer (Fixed-Term)Reference: OCT20223610Location: Flexible in Eastern EnglandSalary: £23,939 - £26,558 Per AnnumHours: Full Time for 37.5 hours per weekContract: Fixed Term until end of December 2024 with the possibility of extensionBenefits: Pension, Life Assurance and Annual LeaveIf you have a passion for empowering volunteers to play an active role in nature conservation and want to be part of the RSPBs work in saving Englands fastest declining bird - the Turtle Dove - this is the role for you.We are looking for a Volunteer Networks Development Officer to join our diverse team working on Turtle Dove recovery in England through Operation Turtle Dove. We need you to support and further develop our team of dedicated species recovery volunteers, whoplay an essential role in Turtle Dove recovery in our priority areas for the species - Turtle Dove Friendly Zones.Whats the role aboutThe Turtle Dove is one of the RSPBs highest priorities for species recovery. We have been working with land managers and partners for several years through Operation Turtle Dove, through habitat management advice, research, monitoring and internationalwork.Volunteers have a vital role to play here. For example, volunteers can help us through monitoring the species and its habitats, helping with research, supporting engagement with farmers and land managers, and safeguarding important places for the species.We are looking for a Volunteer Networks Development Officer to help us grow this essential volunteer support for our Turtle Dove recovery work in southern and eastern counties of England.Working under the Operation Turtle Dove Senior Project Manager, and with our team of Conservation Advisors and other colleagues, you will be responsible for further developing and supporting our networks of species recovery volunteers. This will initiallybe focussing on two to three priority areas for turtle doves - Turtle Dove Friendly Zones, the precise locations depended on the location of successful applicant.This work will entail:

• Recruiting, motivating and managing volunteer teams.
• Co-ordinating volunteer-led activities.
• Working with colleagues to ensure volunteer work involves agreed priority actions.
• Liaising with project partners and farmers and land managers.
• Developing and delivering appropriate communications activities and volunteer events.
• Ensuring that risks and issues are highlighted to the Operation Turtle Dove Senior Project Manager

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Practical experience in managing and working with volunteers.
• Ability to work as part of a dispersed team.
• Knowledge of project management theory and practice.
• Ability to produce clear communications and adapt your style of delivery depending on the audience.
• Partnership building skills to enable you to work positively with external stakeholders.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions.
• Able to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Proven time management and organisational skills.
• Competent IT user (e.g. MS packages, Outlook).
• Valid UK driving licence or ability to access remote locations.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Some knowledge of natural history, including wildlife on lowland farmland.
• Ability to line manage and motivate volunteers for good outcomes.

The successful applicant can be based remotely, however regular travel to areas in Kent, Essex, and Suffolk will be necessary.The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term.Closing Date: 23:59, Sun, 13th Nov 2022We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from 22nd November 2022.InterestedIf you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.No agencies please.

Keyskills :
Network DevelopmentOrganisational SkillsVolunteer ManagementPartnership BuildingTurtle Dove Species Recovery