Appointment of non member trustee volunteer volunteer roles

Role Description

St Edmundsbury Cathedral became a registered charity on 1 May 2023 and is looking to appoint additional independent non-executive members to join Chapter which is the Board of Trustees. Chapter is accountable for the governance, strategic direction and management of the Cathedral, and has ultimate responsibility for the care, maintenance and development of the Cathedral estate, all aspects of Cathedral activity, and for securing its long-term viability and financial sustainability.

The objects of the Chapter are:

(a) to advance the Christian religion in accordance with the faith and practice of the Church of England, in particular by furthering the mission of the Church of England;

(b) to care for and conserve the fabric and structure of the Cathedral Church building;

(c) to advance any other charitable purposes which are ancillary to the furtherance of the purpose referred to in sub-paragraph (a) or (b).

Membership

The Chapter consists of the Dean, the Residentiary Canons and other lay members holding appointed or elected positions. The constitution allows for between 8 – 12 members of Chapter. Currently, membership comprises the Dean and the Residentiary Canons (4 clergy) who serve as executive members. One member serves as the senior non-executive member who is a lay person appointed by the Bishop. Two of the other non-executive members are directly elected from the congregation. We are now seeking to appoint an non-executive safeguarding member.

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with substantial experience in safeguarding. This individual will provide strategic oversight and assurance in safeguarding practice, ensuring that the Cathedral continues to uphold the highest standards of safety, care, and compliance for children, young people, and vulnerable adults, in line with national and diocesan requirements.

Term of Office

Non-Executive Chapter members are generally appointed for a term of three years, and subject to the approval of Chapter and with the agreement of the non-executive member may serve a further three year term, which is the maximum permitted term of office. The role is voluntary and unremunerated. Expenses are paid in respect of some travelling costs, in accordance with the Cathedral’s policies. The appointment is subject to satisfactory references.

Time Commitment and Meetings

Chapter usually meets six times each year. Meetings are held in the Chapter Room within Abbey House beside the Cathedral and the business agenda rarely exceeds two hours. A light lunch or Evensong follows each meeting of Chapter, allowing time for members to socialise. Attendance at some sub-committee meetings as appropriate.

Key Responsibilities

Non-executive members of Chapter ensure that the focus of the Cathedral is the promotion of the Christian faith, maintaining an effective balance between that and its important financial and commercial obligations and ventures.

Members offer strategic advice and oversight on all aspects of the work of the Cathedral, including ensuring compliance with all regulations and statutory obligations and adherence to the highest standards of good governance. They also offer constructive challenge to the executive team, offering expertise and experience to help with evidence-based decision-making.

Chapter members advise and support the Dean, Residentiary Canons, and Chief Operating Officer on issues that are within their areas of particular expertise. This Chapter Trustee will also sit on the Safeguarding Committee, which meets four times a year.

Chapter members are invited to bring innovative thinking, together with new ideas and insights, to help secure the long-term future of the Cathedral and the delivery of its strategy through the Masterplan 2030. Particular emphasis will be placed on members promoting the life and work of the Cathedral at the heart of the Bury St Edmunds community, across the county of Suffolk and the wider eastern region.

Chapter members are welcomed as leading members of the Cathedral community and as such are expected to take part in meetings and events. Visible participation in the worship at the heart of the Cathedral's mission is an important expression of the non-executive membership of Chapter. Lay members robe and have individual stalls in the Quire of the Cathedral. We would hope for attendance at the Sunday Eucharist once a month; and at occasional Evensongs, Greater Festivals and civic occasions as personal circumstances permit.

Person Specification

Successful candidates must possess the following competencies and personal attributes:

• be a communicant member of the Church of England, or of a Church which is not in communion with but subscribes to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity.
• have an empathy with and be a compelling advocate for the Vision of the Cathedral through the Masterplan 2030; to be able to inform, lead and direct the strategy of the Cathedral
• be competent and able to exercise the highest standards of good governance in a complex Christian organisation
• have the ability to gain the trust, respect, and support of fellow members of Chapter, and the wider Cathedral community
• have the capacity to work collaboratively with all members of Chapter to translate the Masterplans aims into tangible outcomes
• be able to show empathy in dealing with others and to engage diplomatically and with authority in dialogue and debate on critical issues
• be able to voice concerns appropriately, in a frank but professional manner and to deal with conflict constructively
• have the capacity to communicate clearly with other members of Chapter, the Senior Leadership Team and employees on technical, financial and business matters in accordance with the non-executive member’s particular skills
• possess the ability to communicate with confidence and to provide effective strategic guidance
• have strong intellectual and analytical skills with a broad-based and long-term view of strategic and organisational goals
• be able to grasp the bigger picture and avoid immersion in minute detail
• possess the highest levels of trust and integrity
• demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to safeguarding and the promotion of a safe culture within the Cathedral community.

Specific Competencies

In addition to the matters set out above we are looking to recruit a non-executive member with specific skills, expertise or experience in Safeguarding.

Applicants should bring substantial and demonstrable experience in safeguarding policy, practice, or oversight, ideally within a church, education, health, social care, or charitable context. They will provide independent assurance, constructive challenge, and strategic advice to ensure that safeguarding remains at the heart of the Cathedral’s governance and mission.

As a Digital Trustee with expertise in AI and digital technologies, including regulation of AI use within organisations, you will play a pivotal role in providing strategic direction to our ethical AI adoption and digital transformation. This position is a voluntary trustee role, requiring a passionate and dedicated individual with experience in emerging tech trends, particularly in the non-profit sector and a genuine commitment to the values and objectives of our organisation.

About Us

The European Network on Statelessness (ENS) is a civil society alliance of organisations and individuals working to promote the right to a nationality in Europe. Our network brings together over 180 members in more than 40 countries. Since establishing in 2012, we have been dedicated to raising awareness about statelessness and the right to a nationality, supporting legal and policy development, and building civil society’s capacity to act. Our secretariat team of 9 is based in the UK, our Board of Trustees includes individuals based in the UK and across Europe.

We are a fully digital and paperless team, using MS365 and a CRM. We have developed and maintain innovative digital tools like the Statelessness Index (which analyses and compares how European countries are protecting stateless people and taking steps to end statelessness) and the Statelessness Caselaw Database (the first database containing case law related to statelessness in Europe, a vital tool for legal practitioners). Now we're looking forward to harnessing technology like AI and more, to continue to innovate in our work to end statelessness and protect people without a nationality.

Emmaus UK is currently undertaking feasibility work to consider the incorporation of an SPV which can become a Registered Provider of Social Housing on behalf of the Emmaus federation in the UK. This is an exciting prospect and would unlock significant potential to achieve our strategic objective to help more people.

To ensure that we are best positioned to pursue this opportunity we are looking to build the expertise of the Emmaus UK Board in:

• Housing Association/Housing Expertise or relevant regulatory expertise - providing strategic input as we develop the subsidiary and proceed with becoming a Registered Provider
•  Legal expertise - ideally in a relevant field e.g. charity or corporate governance, housing, property, regulation etc
• Property Acquisition and Development - to support us with providing high quality services and managing sustainable growth

Joining the EUK Board at such a significant moment will enable you to play a key role in the future of Emmaus. You will be an integral part of developing the movement and central to making strategic decisions within EUK as the national body.

Trustee Role Description

Location: Home based online meetings.  Two annual face-to-face meetings

Reporting to: EUK Chair and board of trustees

Remuneration:This role is voluntary.  Any travel expenses will be reimbursed.

To ensure EUK pursues its charitable purposes, adheres to its principles & values and works strategically towards the benefit of companions, federation members and the public.

To ensure EUK complies with its governing documents, Charity and Company Law, financial responsibilities and other statutory and relevant legislations and regulations.

Principle responsibility and duties

• To develop, define and agree the strategic vision, mission and priorities of EUK and monitor and evaluate its performance against these targets.
• To ensure EUK uses its resources exclusively for the advancement of its charitable purposes and solely in line with its values and principles
• To ensure legal, regulatory and internal compliance to key governing documents and always act in the best interests of EUK and its beneficiaries
• To ensure the financial sustainability and stability of EUK and its assets by overseeing and reviewing EUK budgets, accounts and financial reports
• To ensure the proper investment of EUK funds and protection of EUK reserves
• To ensure clear, effective and efficient administration of EUK activities, including good governance, risk management, policies, procedures and oversight
• To support the Chair and Chief Executive in their leadership of EUK and ensure proper and formal arrangements for recruitment, appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of EUK’s Chief Executive
• To model to and support the federation of members with developing good governance and best practice in their charities
• To ensure commitment and active participation in the international Emmaus movement.
• To work towards EUK being an equitable, diverse and inclusive organization
• To safeguard the positive name, values and work of Emmaus
• To prepare for, attend and contribute to board and committee meetings

Specialist Duties

In addition to the above general duties, trustees are expected to bring specialist skills, experience, knowledge or expertise in specific areas. It is their duty to use these specialisms to support the board as a whole to reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussion on issues where they have specific expertise, highlighting key issues and providing insight, advice and guidance on new initiatives.

We are currently looking for trustees, with knowledge of housing regulation and related expertise, or with legal knowledge and expertise or with expertise in property acquisition and development

Personal Specification – Skills, knowledge and experience

Essential

• Senior leadership experience
• Experience of strategy
• Development and progression
• Risk management skills
• Evidence of continuing professional development
• Understanding of the role, responsibilities and legal duties of a trustee

Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of working within a global charity or federated structure
• Understanding of charity legislation
• Experience of working in a trustee or non-executive director position
• Experience or understanding of financial oversight

Behavioural Competencies/Characteristics

Essential

• Committed to integrity and transparency
• Able to communicate clearly with a diverse range of people
• Effective member of a team who is inclusive and supportive of others
• Able to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately
• Able to respect boundaries between leadership and management

Time Commitment

EUK trustees currently serve for up to three, three-year terms

The EUK Board meets online, quarterly as well as at an annual face to face two-day overnight strategy session usually in Autumn and an annual face to face meeting in Spring. The EUK Board currently has four internal sub-committees that manage specific areas of work and also meet online, quarterly. Each trustee is also required to become a member of one of these committees.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?  ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy. Join us!

What will you be doing?

In addition to the responsibilities of all board members, the Treasurer will: 

1. Support the Board to review and monitor ECU’s financial performance and sustainability
2. Ensure the Board receives timely, accessible and accurate financial information
3. Support the team to develop and maintain robust and proportionate financial policies, processes and risk management systems

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to ECU’s mission and values
• Commitment to the legal duties and responsibilities
• Financial management experience, policies, risk
• Qualifications
• Able to interpret, interrogate and communicate financial information
• Work as part of a diverse team, and devote the time 

Desirable - treasurer experience

What difference will you make?

We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue.

Before you apply

• Your interest in this role and what you could bring to it
• What would you want to learn and gain?

Interview 25 Feb in London (expenses paid)

Join us as Treasurer and Trustee of Humanimal Trust

Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for good governance and a commitment to making a difference? Are you skilled at translating complex financial information into clear insights? If so, we would welcome your application to join our Board of Trustees as Treasurer. This is a pivotal role at the heart of our charity, helping to shape our strategic direction and support our mission to drive collaboration between human and animal medicine, for the benefit of both.

About the role:

The Treasurer works alongside fellow trustees and relevant staff to oversee Humanimal Trust’s financial strategy, planning and management. You will provide the Board with clear, comprehensive information to inform decisions, ensure financial systems and controls are sound, and advise on the financial implications of strategic and operational plans.

You’ll bring:

• Professional financial expertise (e.g. accounting and financial management expertise).
• A strong understanding of charity finance and governance, or a willingness to learn.
• The ability to analyse, explain and present financial information clearly to non-specialists.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Humanimal Trust.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the preparation of budgets, management accounts, financial statements and cashflow forecasts.
• Ensuring effective financial systems and controls are in place.
• Supporting compliance with relevant legislation and reporting requirements.
• Ensuring the Board understands and fulfils its financial responsibilities.
• Advising on financial risks and opportunities in relation to strategy and operations.
• Overseeing the preparation of the annual accounts and reports for submission to relevant authorities.

What’s in it for you?

• A unique opportunity to use your financial skills to make a lasting impact on healthcare for both humans and animals.
• Development of career enhancing skills and experience, including charity finance, governance and leadership.
• The opportunity to be part of a team of passionate trustees, staff, and volunteers.

Appointment term: A minimum term of three years, with the possibility of two consecutive terms (six years) in total.

Time commitment: Quarterly Board meetings, c.2h per meeting, plus preparation, with some additional input for finance-specific matters.

Preferred background, knowledge and experience: An experienced accounting professional, ideally with knowledge of charity finance

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

If you would like to use your financial skills to help drive positive change in human and animal medicine, we would love to hear from you. 

Help safeguard our future: Join BBS UK as our Treasurer

Bardet-Biedl Syndrome UK (BBS UK) is seeking a new Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and play a key role in ensuring the charity remains financially strong, sustainable, and well governed.

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare, complex genetic condition that causes blindness, learning disabilities, obesity, and a range of additional health challenges. BBS UK is the only UK charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by BBS.

We provide advocacy services, NHS clinic support, publications, and community events that help people navigate life with BBS. Each year, we support over 700 individuals, working alongside a small team of dedicated part-time staff and committed volunteers.

It’s an exciting time to join our charity. We are looking to strengthen our governance and build on our financial foundations to support future growth and impact.

The role

As Treasurer, you will oversee the financial governance of BBS UK, working closely with the Board of Trustees, Operations Manager, and external accountant.

This is a strategic oversight role, not a hands-on bookkeeping position. Day-to-day financial administration is carried out by staff; the Treasurer provides assurance, guidance, and clarity to support good decision-making.

Key responsibilities include:

• Maintaining a strategic overview of the charity’s financial health

• Presenting clear summaries of financial information at Board meetings

• Advising Trustees on the financial implications of plans and decisions

• Overseeing the annual budget and supporting longer-term financial planning

• Ensuring appropriate financial controls and procedures are in place

• Supporting the preparation of annual accounts and liaison with the Independent Examiner

• Helping ensure appropriate reserves are maintained in line with policy

The Board of Trustees retains collective responsibility for the charity’s finances.

We’re looking for someone with:

Essential:

• Experience in finance, accounting, bookkeeping, or financial oversight

• Confidence interpreting financial information and explaining it clearly to non-financial colleagues

• Understanding of financial controls and good governance

• Ability to think strategically and identify financial risks

Desirable:

• Experience in a charity or not-for-profit setting

• Understanding of restricted and unrestricted funds

• Experience working with budgets or management accounts

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of BBS or a connection to the BBS community, though this is not essential.

As a BBS UK Trustee, you will have:

• Induction, training, and ongoing support

• Reasonable expenses reimbursed

• Opportunities to develop new skills and contribute at a strategic level

• The chance to make a meaningful difference to a rare disease community

• Opportunities to collaborate with dedicated trustees, staff, and partners

Time commitment

• Attendance at four Board meetings per year (online, approximately 3 hours each)

• Reviewing financial information monthly or quarterly

• Additional input around budget setting and year-end accounts

• Attendance at our annual conference weekend (in person; expenses covered)

If you would like an informal conversation about the role before applying, we would be very happy to arrange a chat with our Chair.

BBS UK is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our values and want to support our community.

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?

ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy so that everyone has the freedom and security to live a good life. 

We are now recruiting for ECU’s first Treasurer, who will lead at board level on monitoring ECU’s financial performance and sustainability, ensuring that we have robust financial policies and processes in place, and supporting other board members to fulfil their collective responsibilities around finance. 

This is an exciting time to join ECU. We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue. Our work is challenging, fascinating, and fulfilling – and, with rising levels of inequality, an unfolding climate emergency, overstretched public services and a growing concentration of corporate power, it couldn’t be more important.