Head of National Services & Volunteer Programs

Irish Red Cross; Dublin; Hybrid; EUR 78,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% employers' pension contribution

Death in Service benefit

Hybrid working

Privilege days

Learning and development support

Job summary

The Irish Red Cross Society is seeking a Head of National Services to lead and transform domestic programmes across volunteer and staff teams. Reporting to the Secretary General, you will shape strategy, governance and operational delivery for youth, health, first aid, and community initiatives.

You will manage multiple direct reports, build partnerships with stakeholders, and drive fundraising, safeguarding, and change management to deliver impact.

Qualifications

• Seven years+ experience at management level in volunteer management / community development / membership organisation.
• Strong people skills, especially managing teams to ensure quality and impact.
• Track record leading in a complex governance and compliance environment.
• Experience in proposals and grant writing development, budgeting and submission.
• Experience with safeguarding responsibilities and working with Government Departments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the organisation’s strategic plan 2025-2030 and monitor progress across National Services.
• Develop and implement volunteer-led programmes (first aid, training, community services, youth) and specialist programmes.
• Ensure scalable volunteer structures with robust protocols, manuals and training for staff and volunteers.
• Proactively build partnerships with internal and external stakeholders and secure funding for key programmes.
• Oversee budgeting and financial accountability for all National Services operations.

Skills

Volunteer management

People management

Governance

Grant writing

Education

Undergraduate degree or equivalent

Job description

The Irish Red Cross Society is seeking a Head of National Services to lead and transform domestic programmes across volunteer and staff teams. Reporting to the Secretary General, you will shape strategy, governance and operational delivery for youth, health, first aid, and community initiatives.

You will manage multiple direct reports, build partnerships with stakeholders, and drive fundraising, safeguarding, and change management to deliver impact.