History: 

 

Way back in the 1980s Interserve introduced a track within On Track for professionals to use their 

skills on repeat placements. ‘Returning Professionals’ (also called ‘Prof Track’ by some NOs) have 

existed unofficially in some countries for many years (eg Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, E&W) 

but it has been growing a lot recently. There are an increasing numbers of professionals who can 

either take vacation time or early retirement to give repeated periods of service. This is partly due to things like better health, financial independence, cheaper airfares, greater knowledge of English in receiving countries, the realisation that retirement is the opportunity for a new start, etc. 

Who are ‘Returning Professionals’? 

The Returning Professionals programme only starts after the professional has carried out one On Track Placement. By returning repeatedly to the same location, these professionals are able to greatly help a team/project. They can contribute much by their wisdom of years and their perspective on life as well as their professional skills.

Who is it for?

 

Those who want to use their professional skills to serve on repeated placements yet aren't in a position to be Partners. They are often older retired people . 

Those who apply to be a “Returning Professional” must fit the following profile: 

 

1. 1)They have professional qualifications and experience that are needed in a particular situation 
   

    or location. 

2) They serve for a defined period of time. 

3) Repeat placements are expected.  They generally will return to the same location and role 

    each year.    

4. 4)They live in their “home country” for over 6 months of each year. 
   

How long is it for?

Placements are between one week and 6 months. 

How much does it cost?

This depends on where you go and the length of time you go for. Things you will pay for include:

1. •Application fee: £90 (for the first placement only)
   

2. •Interserve International fee: £40 per month (£20 to IO, £20 to Country Team)
   

3. •Flight costs: Dependant on location and how far in advance flights are booked
   

4. •Visa costs: Dependant on location
   

5. •Insurance costs: Dependant on location & insurance company
   

6. •Vaccination costs: Dependant on location
   

7. •Accommodation costs: Dependant on location and whether you live with an ex-pat worker or with a local staff worker. This is arranged by the On-Track Co-ordinators once your placement is confirmed.
   

 

       We want to welcome ‘Returning Professionals’ and endorse their value within Interserve.