As Refugee Support Europe approaches its tenth year, we are looking for a new Chief Executive Officer to lead us into our next chapter.
Since 2016, we have provided short-term, dignified support to displaced people at times of urgent need. From our Dignity Centres in Bournemouth and Nicosia to emergency interventions and advocacy, our work exists in the gap between arrival and settlement — when people are often most vulnerable, under-served and navigating complex systems in an increasingly hostile environment.
The need for this work has never been greater.
At the same time, we are a small organisation with limited resources and a big vision. Over the next two to five years, we plan to strengthen our existing projects, increase our income to ensure sustainability, and open new Dignity Centre locations. We are looking for a leader who can help us do this with clarity, courage, and care.
A role for someone who can hold both vision and detail
This is a full-time, remote-first role with regular travel to our project sites in the UK and Cyprus.
It is varied, hands-on and relational. One day might involve reviewing budgets and safeguarding procedures. Another could mean preparing a media interview, troubleshooting a maintenance issue at distance, speaking with a corporate partner or supporting a coordinator navigating a complex situation on the ground.
As a small charity, there is no traditional back office. The CEO works closely with our part-time fundraiser and office manager, manages project coordinators across multiple locations, and supports a volunteer-powered team of up to 30 people at any one time.
We need someone who can operate at both the micro and macro level — setting strategic direction while remaining attentive to the daily realities of service delivery.
Values-led fundraising and sustainable growth
Fundraising remains one of the biggest challenges for charities of our size. While we have built strong trust and foundation support, we are now looking to grow more enduring income streams — including corporate partnerships, high-net-worth individuals and strategic grant opportunities.
The right candidate will be confident pitching, relationship-building and stewarding partnerships, while ensuring that all funding remains aligned with our values of dignity, solidarity, and community.
Financial oversight is central to this role. With an annual budget of around £400k, the CEO is accountable for budget management, spending decisions and ensuring rigorous financial governance across all countries in which we operate.
Leading with dignity, solidarity and community
Our organisational values guide how we work internally and externally.
We are looking for someone who brings:
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Proven financial and operational experience
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Strong safeguarding and risk management capability
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Leadership experience in small, highly efficient teams
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Successful fundraising track record
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Exceptional communication skills
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The ability to move between strategy and hands-on problem-solving
Experience of displacement, advocacy or campaigning is welcome but not essential.
Most importantly, we are seeking someone with the commitment, dedication and humility to lead a small but ambitious organisation at a time when displaced people across the UK and Europe face increasing precarity.
Practical details
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Full-time, permanent
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Salary from £45,000 depending on experience
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Remote-first, with regular travel to UK and Cyprus sites
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28 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays)
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Reporting to the Board of Trustees
Applications should include a CV and cover letter (max. 2 pages) outlining how you meet the key criteria, and be sent to info@refugeesupporteu.com by 13th March.
If you believe in practical solidarity, understand both the urgency of displacement and the importance of thoughtful, sustainable growth, and are ready to lead with integrity in complex environments — we would love to hear from you.
