About Refugee Support Europe

Refugee Support Europe is a humanitarian charity providing dignified and practical assistance to people displaced across Europe. Our work centres on dignity, choice and respect—delivered through our “Dignity Markets” and community‑led support that empowers refugees to rebuild their lives with agency and hope.

As we enter our next phase of growth, we are strengthening our governance, expanding our partnerships and deepening our impact. We are now seeking a Chair who shares our belief that every person forced to flee deserves dignity, compassion and meaningful support.

We are a small charity, with six members of staff (some of whom are part time) and six highly experienced trustees.

The role The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees and act as a key partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and senior team. You will guide the charity’s long‑term vision, ensure robust governance and champion our mission externally.

Key responsibilities

· Lead the Board, in collaboration with the CEO, in setting strategic direction and ensuring effective oversight, strong governance and risk management.

· Lead and manage the business of the Board, providing an appropriate structure for its operation (including any sub-committees) and ensuring it is effective in its decision-making and in the support and guidance it provides to the CEO.

· Work with the CEO to ensure Board members receive accurate, timely and clear information on matters within their responsibility, so the Board can make sound decisions, monitor effectively and provide advice that promotes the charity’s success.





· Ensure that decisions taken by the Board are effectively implemented under the direction of the CEO.

· Lead the Board in supporting the development of, and assessing the performance of, the CEO.

· Provide support, advice and a sounding board for the CEO, while respecting executive responsibility.

· Uphold and promote our humanitarian values in all aspects of leadership.

· Represent the charity with partners, funders and external stakeholders.

What the time commitment involves

· Attending and chairing quarterly Board meetings.

· Participating in committee meetings and strategic planning sessions as required.

· Regular meetings with the Chief Executive.

· Representing the charity externally when appropriate.

About you

We are looking for a Chair who brings both governance strength and mission‑driven leadership.

You will bring

· Board or leadership experience (charity or humanitarian sector experience desirable but not essential).

· A strong understanding of governance and the responsibilities of charity trustees.

· Strategic thinking, sound judgement and the ability to lead through complexity.

· Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.

· A cooperative, supportive leadership style that inspires confidence.

· A deep commitment to the dignity, rights and wellbeing of refugees and displaced people.

This is a voluntary role with a meaningful opportunity to influence real change for people facing displacement across Europe.

How to apply

Please send a CV and a short statement (maximum two pages) outlining your interest and suitability to [email protected] with the subject line Chair of Trustees – Application.

📌 Chair of the Board of Trustees (Melbourne)
🏢 Refugee Support Europe
📍 Melbourne