Associate Director; Volunteer

Associate Director (Volunteer)

Novar Network is a newly established social enterprise focused on youth leadership, policy dialogue, and global civic engagement. We are at a very early stage, building the organisation from the ground up. This means things are still forming, evolving, and sometimes unpredictable. We are not a large organisation yet, and we are intentional about setting that expectation clearly from the beginning.

This role is for someone who understands what it means to help build something from scratch and is willing to grow with it.

We are looking for an Associate Director to work closely alongside the Director and share the responsibility of building and running Novar Network during its early stage.

This role involves contributing across almost all areas of the organisation, including volunteer recruitment and coordination, internal communication, planning and strategy development, and supporting the overall direction and day-to-day functioning of Novar.

This is not a full-time commitment
, but it is a high-trust and high-responsibility role
. As a young organisation, Novar will rely heavily on this position in its early months.

• Understands how early-stage non-profits or social enterprises operate
• Is comfortable with ambiguity, quiet periods, and occasional chaos
• Is reliable, consistent, and shows up even when progress feels slow
• Can take initiative and say “I’ve got this” rather than waiting for instructions

Please do not apply if you are looking for a large organisation, immediate recognition, or guaranteed rewards. This role is about building first
, not benefiting first.

• Supporting the Director in shaping strategy, plans, and priorities
• Recruiting, coordinating, and communicating with volunteers
• Helping establish internal systems, processes, and workflows
• Participating in decision-making and leadership discussions
• Representing Novar in meetings or communications when appropriate
• Contributing ideas and solutions during both active and quiet phases

• Prior leadership experience is helpful but not required
• Experience or familiarity with the non-profit, social enterprise, or voluntary sector is strongly preferred
• Leadership experience through volunteering, student organisations, or community initiatives is valued

We believe people grow into leadership when given trust and responsibility. What matters most is commitment, reliability, and enthusiasm
.

• UK-based candidates are preferred
• Applicants based in Europe are welcome
• Exceptional candidates from other regions may also be considered

Commitment is the top criterion for this role. This will be assessed throughout the recruitment process and during an initial three‑month probationary period
.

We are looking for someone who will stay engaged even when things slow down, become difficult, or feel uncertain. Early-stage organisations need people who do not disappear when momentum dips.

• Work directly alongside the Director at the heart of leadership
• Help shape the foundation and direction of a growing organisation
• Gain hands‑on experience in building a social enterprise from zero
• Grow into a leadership role with long-term potential as Novar expands

If you are motivated by impact, learning, and shared responsibility rather than titles or immediate rewards, this role may be a strong fit.