Careers

At British-Ukrainian Aid, it’s not just about what we do – it’s about how it feels to be part of it. We want you to feel proud of where you work, confident in what you bring and supported in where you’re going. Our ambition to become the UK’s best charity means creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. A place where you’re encouraged to grow, recognised for the difference you make, and trusted to do work that matters. We’ll give you the space to think ahead, the tools to thrive, and the backing to be your best. Because when you’re supported to succeed, we all move forward together.

Vacancy Title

Chief Executive Officer & Director of Ukraine Programmes

(Full-time – London-based with hybrid working options; part-time considered, pro rata)

Role Description

The Chief Executive Officer & Director of Ukraine Programmes is responsible for the overall strategic leadership, organisational management, and external representation of British-Ukrainian Aid, as well as the leadership and oversight of all Ukraine-focused programmes.

The role combines executive leadership with direct responsibility for ensuring that the charity’s humanitarian and medical programmes in Ukraine are well-designed, effectively delivered, and aligned with real needs on the ground.

The CEO will lead a small but committed team, oversee major partnerships and projects in Ukraine, and work closely with the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

The CEO will attend all Board of Trustees meetings and contribute to discussions and strategic planning in an advisory capacity.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

  • Develop and implement the charity’s strategic plan in alignment with its mission, values, and long-term objectives.
  • Provide clear leadership to staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters to deliver high-impact outcomes.
  • Identify strategic opportunities, risks, and sector developments, particularly in relation to Ukraine.
  • Support organisational growth, sustainability, and impact measurement.

Governance & Board Collaboration

  • Attend all Board of Trustees meetings and provide executive input to inform trustee decision-making.
  • Ensure the Board receives timely, high-quality reports on operations, risks, safeguarding, and finances.
  • Support the Board in fulfilling its legal and regulatory responsibilities as the charity’s governing body.
  • Maintain transparency, accountability, and good governance standards.

Ukraine Programme Leadership

  • Lead the strategic design, coordination, and oversight of all Ukraine-focused programmes.
  • Ensure humanitarian, medical, and educational projects are needs-led, ethical, and effective.
  • Maintain strong relationships with Ukrainian partners, hospitals, local organisations, and other networks providing aid to Ukraine.
  • Monitor programme impact, risks, and compliance with donor and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure that programme delivery reflects the evolving humanitarian and security context in Ukraine.

Operational Management

  • Oversee all charity operations, including logistics, aid delivery, programme implementation, and monitoring.
  • Ensure compliance with charity law, safeguarding, GDPR, and ethical standards.
  • Lead staff and volunteer management, including recruitment, performance management, and wellbeing.
  • Establish clear reporting lines and accountability structures across the organisation.

Financial Oversight & Fundraising

  • Manage the annual budget and maintain robust financial controls with transparency and accuracy.
  • Work with accountants, bookkeepers, and trustees on financial reporting, audits, and compliance.
  • Lead income generation strategies, including trusts and foundations, major donors, and partnerships.
  • Develop sustainable funding streams to support Ukraine programmes and organisational growth.

External Relations & Advocacy

  • Act as the spokesperson and representative for British-Ukrainian Aid.
  • Build and maintain relationships with government, media, funders, Ukrainian community organisations, and delivery partners.
  • Represent the charity in UK and international forums.
  • Strengthen the charity’s public profile and credibility as a leading UK–Ukraine humanitarian organisation.

Person Specification

Essential

  • Significant leadership experience in a UK charity or international NGO.
  • Strong understanding of the humanitarian and geopolitical context in Ukraine.
  • Experience delivering aid or services in conflict-affected or high-risk areas.
  • Proven track record in strategy, fundraising, partnership-building, and organisational leadership.
  • Excellent communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders and represent the charity publicly.
  • Working knowledge of UK charity governance, compliance, safeguarding, and risk management.

Desirable

  • Experience as a charity CEO or senior executive.
  • Previous service as a charity trustee or board member.
  • Professional ties to the UK–Ukraine community.
  • Fluent English and Ukrainian (spoken and written).

How to Apply

Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter, demonstrating how your experience and skills align with the requirements of this role. Applications should be sent to: admin@british-ukrainianaid.org
Deadline: 12 February 2026

Trustee – British-Ukrainian Aid

Role Description

We are seeking several dedicated individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Trustees help shape the charity’s strategic direction, ensure sound governance, and support the effective delivery of our humanitarian mission. The role also involves active engagement with volunteers, project working groups, and organisational activities.

Although voluntary, this is a hands-on role requiring involvement beyond formal Board meetings: supporting charity projects, attending events, overseeing programmes, and working closely with volunteer groups.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Direction & Governance

  • Ensure the charity is achieving its mission and delivering public benefit.
  • Contribute to strategic planning, policy development, and performance evaluation.
  • Ensure compliance with charity law, governance standards, and our governing document.

Board Leadership & Decision-Making

  • Prepare for and attend monthly Board meetings and the AGM.
  • Review papers, participate constructively in discussions, and support collective decisions.
  • Uphold and protect the charity’s values and public reputation.

Operational Oversight & Active Engagement

  • Provide guidance to support organisational development and new initiatives.
  • Ensure effective administration and robust financial and operational controls.
  • Oversee and support the work of volunteer working groups delivering major projects, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Take an active part in the charity’s life, supporting flagship projects, engaging with volunteers, and representing the organisation at events and initiatives.
  • Promote equal opportunities and inclusive practices.
  • Maintain confidentiality and respect governance boundaries.

Person Specification

We welcome applicants who share our commitment to supporting Ukraine and who bring the skills, judgement, and motivation to contribute meaningfully to a volunteer-led humanitarian charity.

Essential qualities (aligned with national trustee standards):

  • Commitment to the mission, purpose, and values of British-Ukrainian Aid.
  • Ability to analyse information, challenge constructively, and make informed decisions.
  • Willingness to act ethically, responsibly, and always in the charity’s best interests.
  • Preparedness to attend meetings and engage actively in charity projects and working groups.
  • Constructive, collaborative approach to working with trustees and volunteers.
  • Understanding of confidentiality and governance boundaries.
  • Good knowledge of the humanitarian sector, safeguarding, and risk management in crisis settings.
  • Strong understanding of Ukraine’s geopolitical landscape, current political developments, cultural context, and economic realities.
  • Strong connections with the Ukrainian diaspora and/or Ukraine-based NGOs, community networks, or civil society organisations.

Desirable experience:

  • Expertise in finance, legal, HR, fundraising, safeguarding, communications, logistics, or humanitarian/medical fields.
  • Charity governance or board experience.
  • Lived experience or deep personal/professional ties to the UK–Ukraine community.

We strongly encourage applications from individuals whose backgrounds are underrepresented on our board.

Additional Information

  • British-Ukrainian Aid provides trustee liability insurance.
  • Trustees must meet Charity Commission eligibility criteria and will be required to complete a Trustee Declaration Form.
  • Induction includes essential Charity Commission guidance (“The Essential Trustee – CC3” and “Hallmarks of an Effective Charity – CC10”).

How to Apply

Please submit:

  • Your CV
  • A short statement outlining why you wish to become a trustee and how your experience aligns with the role
  • Two references will be required from shortlisted candidates.

Applications should be sent to: admin@british-ukrainianaid.org Deadline: We are recruiting on an ongoing basis; early applications are encouraged.

Informal enquiries are welcome.

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