Who We Are

Natalie Masterson - Chief Executive

Natalie took on the role of Chief Executive at Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise (SVE) in June 2015. Collaborating closely with the Board, she plays a key role in shaping SVE's strategy and providing support to her colleagues. Her primary aim is to bolster leadership within Stirling's third sector, forging strong relationships with members and partners. Her proudest moments at SVE is when the organisation brings together local third sector organisations and volunteers together to share experience and knowledge.

Natalie has a degree in Politics and Sociology from the University of Strathclyde, and a Masters in Business Administration from Heriot-Watt University.

Before joining SVE, Natalie devoted several years to the National Union of Students in Scotland, where she held various roles before rising to Head of Membership and Development. She also gained valuable insight from her time in the public sector, working with Edinburgh Council and Falkirk Council.

Outside of work, Natalie values family time, often shuttling her two teenagers and toddler to their various activities. In her spare moments, she enjoys reading and exploring new destinations. Additionally, she has contributed her expertise to various Boards, including those of Zero Tolerance, and a local mental health social enterprise.

Dr. Kainde Manji - Deputy Chief Executive

Kainde joined SVE in August 2024 providing support to Natalie and the Board in implementing the strategic, staffing and operational functions of the organisation. Kainde has a particular interest and expertise in Health and Social Care policy and supports SVEs work within this space. She is proud to play a role in empowering and amplifying the voices of Stirling’s vibrant third sector.

Prior to joining SVE Kainde was Head of Dementia at Age Scotland where she established and led About Dementia, a forum for policy and practice involving people living with dementia and unpaid carers in shaping policy and practice in Scotland. Her career has been spent in roles working in both the third sector and in academia, and has supported a number of trustee boards both nationally and locally. She holds a Ph.D. in Urban Studies, an MSc in Comparative Social Policy, and a BA in History and Politics.

Outside of work Kainde enjoys baking, reading and spending time with her family. 

Lee Stevenson - Organisational Support Officer

I have been employed by SVE 16 years, as an Organisational Support Officer. My role is to offer support and guidance to Third Sector organisations in governance, finance, and the practical process of setting up charities and voluntary organisations. My role also includes preparing and delivering training in areas such as Governance, Finance Systems, Fundraising and Legal Structures. I also facilitate bespoke Development Days for organisations, based on their strategic requirements as well as facilitating Action Learning Sets.

I also provide support to social enterprises across the Stirling Council area, facilitate the FV Social Enterprise Network and the Stirling SE Strategic Planning Group.

The favourite part of my job is seeing organisations I work with develop and grow, through understanding their governance role and putting in systems they have learned from participating in our training. This results in more sustainable organisations that demonstrate good practice.

In my spare time I enjoy playing pool and currently represent the Scottish Ladies B team at international tournaments.

Rachel Johnston - Development & Engagement Coordinator

I started working for the Volunteer Centre back in 2005, which merged with CVS in 2010 to become SVE. Since then I have been involved in a variety of roles within the organisation. 

In my current role as Development & Engagement Coordinator I am responsible for all communication with the third sector including our bulletin, social media and website. I have enjoyed learning many new skills and now can distinguish a meme from a giff!

I also chair the Children and Families Forum in Stirling which gives TSO's a chance to network, share good practice and contribute towards local policy.

Prior to joining SVE, I studied Sociology and Social Policy at the University of Stirling and volunteered with Stirling Family Support Service and Active Stirling. 

When I’m not at work I like spending time with my family, looking after my horses, baking cakes, eating cakes and holidaying in Florida, not as often as I’d like though!

Janet Kennedy - Development and Engagement Coordinator

I have recently joined Stirling Voluntary Enterprise as Development and Engagement Coordinator for Employability.  This involves working with third sector and partner organisations across Stirling who can provide employability, training and skills development opportunities to assist people access work, education and training.  I work with different organisations within the Stirlingshire area to help them understand if they are eligible, support them to access funding and provide information and advice.  My role includes helping organisations understand the different levels of support people may need to access training and employment opportunities and how they are best placed to provide this. 

Prior to working with SVE, I have over 20 years experience working in the social housing sector in various roles and positions.  This includes working with local authorities across Scotland to assess housing and support needs to inform strategic planning.  I have also worked as a Policy and Performance Manager in a large housing organisation.  After a break of a few years in self-employment, I am really excited to now be working with SVE in this role.

When not at work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, writing, going to gigs, upcycling old bits furniture and being outdoors with my dog.

Liliana King - Finance Administrator

I joined the SVE team in 2008 in the role of Administrator for the Open Door Project and since 2013 my role has expanded to include administering SVE’s finances.

I am responsible for ensuring the company’s ledgers are kept up to date as well as carrying out daily financial functions along with office administration tasks to ensure the smooth running of the finance department and the office.

Prior to working with SVE I had a varied career working in finance for the construction industry and within the finance sector. I have also completed a BSc in Civil Engineering.

In my free time I enjoy being with family, camping, going on nature walks to various hills and lochs, one of my favourite places being Loch Lomond. I also enjoy skiing and playing tennis with my sons.

Gordon Mackenzie - Integration Engagement Officer

Gordon joined SVE in 2024 as the Integration and Engagement Officer for the Health and Social Care Partnership providing support and information to the third sector to build relationships with the wide range of organisations and groups within the Stirling area. The role also involves building effective and productive relationships between key stakeholders such as statutory partners and community organisations to support collaboration and partnership in health and social care initiatives to improve outcomes for our community.

Prior to working with SVE Gordon worked in the public sector and latterly in Higher Education chairing local and national groups around a variety of issues including child protection, resilience and business continuity. He has supported a national criminal justice organisation as a trustee.

Away from work he enjoys football and family time.