RSPB Local Group Leader - Loughborough

RSPB local groups are run by volunteers to promote the aims of the RSPB in the local community. They offer RSPB members and the public the opportunity to get more involved in our work to save nature. Groups run activities like indoor talks and outdoor walks. They fundraise and campaign for the RSPB and attend local community events to inspire people to support the RSPB. We're looking for the right individual to lead the Loughborough Local Group. Importantly you don't need to be an expert in birds - people skills are much more important for this role. Responsibilities: To lead the group and encourage the development of a range of activities designed to encourage wide participation from the group membership and to attract new group members. Attend a two day group leaders training workshop at our headquarters in Bedfordshire within your first year in role. Ensure the group has a minimum of three committee meetings each year; ensure the AGM business includes an annual report of activities, a financial report and elections to the committee; set, or approve, the agenda for committee meetings and for the AGM; ensure there is always someone from the group who takes responsibility for introducing guest speakers at indoor talks evenings. Ensure a completed local group annual report and annual financial return is sent to RSPB HQ annually. Lead the group committee, ensure each committee member has clearly defined roles and responsibilities; provide support and encouragement as required; manage any situations where a committee member has to resign at short notice. Maintain a two way communication with your Regional/Country Office and HQ in order to: disseminate any important news updates and messages to the committee and membership; seek guidance/advice where needed; notify the regional office of any changes to the committee. Ensure that the group follows its constitution and abides by the advice/guidelines in the RSPB Handbook for Volunteer Groups.

A great 'people person' with good communication and interpersonal skills - friendly and approachable with the enthusiasm and ability to motivate others and work with a wide range of people from different backgrounds and of different ages. Always assumes positive intent in others. An excellent leader of people with sound delegation and organisational skills and the ability to be diplomatic and impartial when there are differences, and reassuring and positive when there is disappointment. Shows concern for people's well being, treats others as equals and takes time to ensure group volunteers feel recognised and appreciated for work well done. Creative, forward thinking, willing to try new things. Open to ideas and suggestions from others, supportive of appropriate new ventures that the committee may wish to pursue, trusts the decisions and expertise of others. Able to identify areas that may need change, implementing change in a sensitive manner. Aims for high standards of efficiency, reliability and quality. Computer literate with internet and email access. A commitment to the work of the RSPB and supportive of the Saving Nature Strategy, eager to inspire people to care about what the RSPB is trying to achieve. Always speaks positively about the RSPB and advocates for the RSPB brand. Respects the need for confidentiality when dealing with confidential information. Adhere to the RSPB's policies and procedures whilst volunteering and co-operate with members of staff to achieve the aims of the charity. Accept that ultimate responsibility for the affairs of the charity rests with the charity's Council and Management Board. Group leaders must be members of the RSPB.

Minimum:

Between 15-20 hours a month

Duration:

Maximum 5 year term of office

Period:

All year round

You'll get to meet new people and make new friends! You can utilise your skills to further develop the group and help ensure the RSPB and the group work together effectively to save nature. As leader you could use the opportunity to take on a new challenge for the group and flex your leadership and/or creative muscles. Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of being a local group leader is knowing that you're really making a difference in inspiring others to help save nature. The RSPB is an active and exciting conservation charity, the largest in Europe! We can help you gain skills and give you a valuable insight into our work.

Contact

George LeeHarris, Midlands Regional Office
Tel: 01767 693777
Email: George.LeeHarris@RSPB.ORG.UK

Notes

You would be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses from the group charity bank account. You would have full support from a dedicated and experienced committee of volunteers, as well as support from staff at the RSPB Midlands Regional Office and the Volunteering Development Department at HQ. The Loughborough Local Group meet once a month at Loughborough University Committee meetings are also held at Loughborough University approximately every 2-3 months For more details visit the group website at https://ww2.RSPB.org.uk/groups/loughborough The RSPB is the UK charity working to secure a healthy environment for birds and wildlife, helping to create a better world for all of us. We belong to BirdLife International, the global partnership of bird conservation organisations. Your time and skills could make a real difference to the work of the RSPB and it would be great if you could join us.