Audit And Risk Committee Member Volunteer Roles

Managing risk and enhancing trust and confidence in policing

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Thames Valley and the Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police (TVP) are seeking an exceptional individual to join their Audit and Risk Committee known as JIAC (Joint Independent Audit Committee).

This is a unique opportunity managing risk in England’s largest non-metropolitan police force, at a time of strategic growth and change.

We welcome applications from all interested candidates. In order to better reflect our local communities, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups including all ethnic or religious backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and women. We particularly welcome applications from those who have financial qualifications and/or recent audit committee experience.

The purpose of JIAC is to provide independent advice, assurance and recommendations to the PCC and the Chief Constable on matters of risk, governance and fiduciary responsibility.

The Committee provides a vital added layer of confidence which not only works to ensure that Thames Valley Police has efficient and effective assurance arrangements in place but also helps to assure the public that both TVP and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner are well-run and financially sound, building public trust and confidence in local policing.

In recent years JIAC has looked at how TVP improves critical processes including, ensuring safety in custody; ensuring fairness in interactions with the public; conducting thorough investigations with the right justice outcomes; managing cyber and information risk as well as engaging in the full breadth of financial control.

As a JIAC member, you will act as a “critical friend” bringing challenge in a constructive way. It is a stimulating and interesting role, and an opportunity to contribute significantly to society.

Candidates are required to be over the age of 18, and live or work in the Thames Valley area and be able to attend meetings at TVP Headquarters, Kidlington during the working day. The successful candidate will be subject to a police vetting check. Serving police officers or police staff are not eligible for this role and members must be politically neutral.

The closing date for applications is midnight on Sunday 19 May.

Interviews are scheduled for Monday 3 June.

The successful applicant will receive training and expenses for travelling to TVP Headquarters. The total involvement is around 10-12 days per year, including 4-5 formal meetings, preparation, observation of other TVP governance bodies, and visits to police sites to understand the organisation and its risks. 

Join the WEA Audit and Risk Board Committee: Bring Adult Learning, Within Reach. 
 

Are you passionate about adult education and community development? Do you believe in the power of learning to transform lives?  

As a member of the Audit and Risk Board Committee, you’ll play a pivotal role in guiding the WEA towards a sustainable future. You’ll ensure that our programmes remain true to our values and principles, and that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our communities. 

WEA is seeking to appoint co-opted Board Committee members who have worked nationally in England or Scotland with recognised qualifications in one or more of the following fields:

• Accountancy or audit; with experience of dealing with pensions or multiple funding /revenue streams.

• Human resources; with experience of dealing with organisational development and change.

• Education / adult learning; with experience of legislative, social, health and/or education policy that may impact upon WEA delivery in England and/or Scotland. 

We offer: A comprehensive induction and training program. Supportive environment, especially for new committee members. The opportunity to use your skills and experience for a noble cause. 

Your impact: Influence adult education policies. Monitor and improve the quality of our educational offerings. Foster partnerships and build relationships with key stakeholders. 

Your commitment to our mission will help bring adult learning within reach. Together, we can create a community where continuous learning and development are a reality for all. 

Bring your professional skills and experiences to the LTE Group, one of the UK’s largest education providers, who seek to add further expertise to their UCEN Manchester Divisional Board and Audit & Risk Committee.

Salary: £3,000 p/a and 5-8 hours per month

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 10th June

Who we are.

LTE Group is a family of five education and training providers working together to help communities gain skills to improve their life chances and grow their earning potential. Across LTE Group, we transform lives through the power of education and training, delivering further education, higher education, apprenticeships, and professional development, and we work in prisons to help offenders turn their lives around.

We are one of the largest education providers in the UK, and our provision spans a wide and diverse portfolio of education and training. Given the scope and scale of our delivery, outstanding governance is vital if we are to continue delivering high-quality provision, which leads to excellent outcomes for our learners whilst remaining compliant.

About the role.

To ensure that our governance remains robust and that, as a group of non-executives, we are able to continue offering support, advice and scrutiny to our senior leaders, we are now seeking to appoint new members to one of our committees and one of our Divisional Boards.

Firstly, we seek to appoint a co-opted member to join the UCEN Manchester Board. This Divisional Board provides oversight of the operation of the higher education provision offered by UCEN Manchester on behalf of the LTE Group.

We also seek to add a new co-opted member to our Audit & Risk Committee, whose remit is organisation-wide and whose support and challenge are vital if we are to ensure that, as an organisation, we remain compliant and can manage and mitigate the risks that affect us.

Both the UCEN Manchester Divisional Board and the Audit & Risk Committee meet three times per year, and members of these committees are required to attend in person.

Who we are looking for.

Co-opted Members are expected to support the work of the LTE Group Board of Governors through their membership of a divisional board or a group committee. You will be expected to contribute your expertise, skills and knowledge to support the operation of the UCEN Manchester Divisional Board or the Audit & Risk Committee and ensure the work is done efficiently and effectively.

As such, we are seeking candidates who are experts in their chosen fields and can demonstrate a strong interest in all aspects of the LTE Group’s broad provision, including further and higher education. Commitments to lifelong learning, high-quality education and training, and equality and diversity are all essential.

For the UCEN Manchester Divisional Board we are seeking candidates with senior leadership experience in the English higher education system, who have knowledge of OfS and TEF frameworks.

For the Audit & Risk Committee, we are seeking candidates with professional expertise and experience in cyber security.

Candidates for both roles must be able to work positively with others and contribute as a team member, have the ability to make reasoned decisions and be willing to contribute to establishing and monitoring performance at a strategic level.

We are seeking candidates who are keen to commit their time and knowledge to further the strategic objectives of the LTE Group and are strongly aligned with the values, ethos and mission of the organisation.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 10th June.

As we have a number of members retiring this year, we are currently looking for governors to join the Corporation Board. We are seeking experienced individuals, looking for an opportunity to use, and develop, their professional skills in a board-level environment. This is a really exciting time to join us at Preston College, as we implement our new Strategic Plan.

Being a governor is a hugely rewarding leadership role. Governors can make a real difference and give something back to the local community.

At the moment, we are looking for new governors with background and experience of one, or more, of the following areas:

- Business

-   Finance/ resources

-   Strategy

- Audit and Risk

- Estates Management.

Most importantly, we are looking for people who can contribute ideas and widen the perspective of our Board. We value the diversity of our learners and staff and are determined to reflect this amongst our Governing Body. We encourage people from a range of backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Most meetings are held in College. 

Please get in touch if you don’t feel you have the time to join the Board but would be interested in being co-opted to one of our committees. Co-option can provide an excellent introduction to voluntary governance roles. We are currently looking for co-opted members to join our Search and Governance Commitee, Resources Committee and Audit and Risk Committee. 

What does a Trustee look like?

Look in the mirror!

Right now, less than 3% of charity Trustees are under 30, 8% are people of colour and 36% are women. We are looking for people from across the UK and are keen to recruit trustees from all nations in the UK.

We value the many skills and experiences that you can bring to the Marine Conservation Society. We are committed to a Board culture that enables everyone to be their authentic selves and to enjoy the Trustee experience.

We believe that becoming a Trustee with us will be a rewarding journey for you – we want you to share your experience, your fresh perspectives, and we will listen to your views.

It’s a critical time for our ocean. There is not a moment to waste. Our goal is to recover the health of our ocean so it can help with healing our climate; to make seas protected in law to be protected in practice; and to stop the tide of plastic that’s getting into our waters.

Our Board needs people with a range of backgrounds, life stages, experiences, and skills who come together as a team to offer challenge and energy to one another, and to boost our ability to deliver for our ocean.

By joining as a Trustee, you will help navigate us through the risks and opportunities that we meet.

We want our organisation and Board to be reflective of our society. We recognise that we should all have the opportunity to take responsibility to protect our ocean for the future, so we are particularly interested in applications from groups which are typically under-represented on Boards. You can read our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement here.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are essential to achieving ocean recovery so everyone can expect to be treated with consideration and respect in an atmosphere without prejudice, discrimination, harassment or violence.

What we’re looking for 

We’re looking for people to join our Board with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance – you might be a qualified accountant and have a background in finance and audit so that you can provide vital skills to help the Board oversee our financial management. An understanding of charity accounts and regulations would absolutely be an advantage. 

• Marketing & Communications – we want to reach new audiences to ensure a diverse and inclusive approach, and we are aiming to do that at scale. You may have experience of providing strategic support for increasing our reach and visibility. 

• Marine Conservation - you might have environmental knowledge, ideally on the marine environment, with policy and/or practical experience of conservation. A network of contacts across the marine sector, particularly with business or government, would be an advantage.

What you can bring to our Board can be just as interesting as where you’ve been working. You do not need to have previous charity trustee experience, but you will need to be comfortable participating at a senior level with complex discussions and the need to be comfortable making pragmatic but key decisions. 

Why join our board? 

Being a Trustee can be a challenge, but it’s also a brilliant opportunity for you to develop your skills, work as part of a team that shapes the direction of our charity in making tangible changes for the future of our ocean and planet. If you’re passionate about what we do, then you’ll feel the same excitement we have in making those changes happen. 

You don’t need to understand everything that we do or know the Latin names of fish, or in most cases, even to have experience of the charity sector. As a Trustee, you’ll develop your personal and professional knowledge, work on strategy and develop an approach to managing risk and broaden your influencing and negotiation skills in a new context. 

You’ll also gain insight and knowledge from your fellow Trustees, with everyone’s skills being recognised and valued. 

Trustees are volunteers, so the role is not paid but we will cover your costs for travelling and any overnight stays to attend meetings or events. 

Application and selection process 

We value the knowledge and experiences that you will bring to Marine Conservation Society, and they may have been developed in a range of ways, and by many routes.

We understand that the application process can be difficult if you have a condition or disability that you live with. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to shine during your application process, so please let us know what we can do to accommodate you.

Key dates 

Closing date: 31 May 2024 

1st Interviews June 2024 

2nd Interviews End of June/Early July 

It’s an exciting time for the Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse: momentum is growing, with heightened public awareness of domestic abuse following the pandemic, increased government focus, and employers increasingly recognising their crucial role in enabling employees to recognise the signs of, and seek support on, domestic abuse.

The Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (known as EIDA) is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in our mission to empower employers to act effectively against domestic abuse. 

Our aim is to ensure that all team members, volunteers, trustees, job applicants and the people we come into contact with are given equal opportunity and that our organisation is representative of all sections of society.

We want our board to be representative of our society and membership and particularly welcome applications from people with lived experiences of domestic abuse, people based outside the southeast of England and in the nations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and from people with experience as a people manager or employer, large or small.

Who we are

We are a free-to-join members' network of employers and a registered charity supporting over 1,500 large and small employers to take effective action on domestic abuse.  Our members collectively employ over 25% of the UK workforce.

Our mission is to equip employers to support their employees affected by domestic abuse and to share best practice with other employers.

We endeavour to bring about constructive change, leading to a society where survivors thrive, and where domestic abuse is not tolerated.

Our Trustees are volunteer board members who play a vital role in making sure that EIDA achieves its mission.  As a group, they:

• Oversee the overall management and administration of the charity.
• Ensure that EIDA has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.
• Provide support and challenge to the executive team, enabling EIDA to grow and thrive.

We are seeking up to four new Trustees to join the existing group of eight. 

EIDA has a UK-wide remit with a membership made up of employers, and we want to reflect that across our Trustees.

Trustee duties

Trustees are the people who lead our charity and decide how it is run.  We envisage the trustee duties broadly as:

• Support and provide advice on EIDA’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee EIDA’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve EIDA’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to EIDA’s CEO.
• Keep abreast of changes in EIDA’s operating environment.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect EIDA’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Participate in periodic appraisals of the performance of the Board of Trustees, collectively and individually.
• Represent EIDA at external functions, meetings and events.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will contribute to the diversity of thinking on our board.

Whether you are an experienced trustee or are looking to take your first step at board level, we would like to hear from you. We ask for:

• Commitment to tackling domestic abuse and EIDA’s mission.
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions.
• A strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and EIDA’s core values of Collaboration, Empowerment, Versatility, Openness and Kindness.
• Time to commit to supporting the organisation, including attendance at Board meetings (2 hours, 5 times annually), virtual and in-person events (4-6 annually) and any sub committees.
• Ability to build and maintain a healthy network that promotes the aims of EIDA across the business community, to drive member growth, and to enhance EIDA fundraising activities.
• Some experience as an employer or people manager.

Terms of appointment

Position: Trustee

Location: This is a hybrid role, with occasional travel required to Board and network meetings held in central London

Terms: A maximum fixed term appointment of one three-year term followed by a further three-year term

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment: EIDA’s Board of Trustees meets 4-5 times a year within the working hours of 10-5pm.  Currently meetings are held in London and remotely (Zoom).

Closing date

9am, Monday 10 June 2024.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received, so early applications are appreciated.

In our new Chair, we are looking for someone with leadership experience and board level credentials who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders. Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do.

However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.

You will be a confident and positive leader and an ambassador on our behalf with the strategic acumen and emotional intelligence to promote our work and vision, and support our Managing Director, and our leadership team

Role Description

Objective

The Chair will hold the Board and Executive Team to account for YSS’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that each trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support, and, where appropriate, challenge the Managing Director and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of the charity to achieve agreed objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and the public face of YSS in partnership with the Managing Director.

Principal responsibilities

Strategic leadership

• Provide leadership to YSS and its Board, ensuring that the charity has maximum impact for its

service users.

• Support the Managing Director to lead and manage the organisation well, give regular feedback on performance and conduct an annual appraisal.

• Ensure that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of YSS.

• Ensure that the Board operates within its charitable objectives and provides a clear strategic direction for YSS.

• Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated opportunities and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and manage and mitigate the risks.

• Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of YSS (in combination with the lead finance Trustee), with systems in place to ensure.

Governance

• Ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for YSS and that the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities.

• Develop the knowledge and capability of the Board of Trustees.

• Encourage positive change, where appropriate address and resolve any conflicts within the Board.

• Ensure that the Board of Trustees is regularly refreshed, reflects the wider population and service users of YSS and incorporates the right balance of skills, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead YSS effectively.

• Work within any agreed policies adopted by YSS.

External Relations

• Act as an ambassador for YSS objectives and mission.

• Act as a spokesperson for YSS when appropriate.

• Represent YSS at external functions, meetings, and events (taking into account time commitments outside of the role).

Relationship with the Managing Director and the wider management team

• To work in partnership and support the Managing Director to ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic direction.

• Support the Managing Director, whilst respecting the boundaries which exist between the two roles, ensuring regular contact in an open and supportive way with opportunity for professional development and external professional support when agreed.

Person Specification

In addition to the qualities required of a Trustee of YSS, the Chair must also meet the following requirements:

Personal Qualities

• Personal gravitas and clear leadership style to lead an ambitious charity and communicate a

sincere commitment to the mission and vision of YSS

• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in a

leading role

• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of YSS (particularly in the sectors and services that YSS cover).

• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment.

• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

Experience - all essential

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation

• Successful track record of achievement through their career

• Experience of or appreciation of charity governance (or wider governance) and Civil Society and current issues affecting it, and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees

• Experience of chairing meetings and events and representing organisations externally from public platforms and through effective stakeholder management

Knowledge and Skills - all essential

• Broad knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and current issues affecting it.

• Leadership skills, ability to bring people together.

• A level of financial management and charity finance understanding.

• Good understanding of governance issues (ideally in a charity setting).

Terms of Appointment

Remuneration

The role of Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable out of

pocket expenses can be claimed.

Location

YSS operates across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Warwickshire. Our offices are in Blackpole, Worcester.

Time commitment

Between 2 and 3 days per month. The YSS Board currently meet 6 times a year and holds 2 Audit & Risk committee meetings and up to 2 strategy planning days per year. The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Managing Director and may, subject to an individual’s time commitments, represent YSS at essential events. All board members are encouraged to attend YSS events, including visits from our charity Patron and are welcome to make occasional visits to projects to see first-hand the work of YSS, the people supported, staff and volunteers.

The charity’s Chair (and board members) will be elected for an initial term of one year, after which they may be eligible for re-appointment for additional three-year terms, for a maximum of 10-year term.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

YSS is committed to equality of opportunity, supports and encourages underrepresented groups,

and values diversity.

Applications

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Appointment is subject to eligibility in line with The Charity Commission criteria.

The vacancy

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is seeking to appoint one new Trustee. As a DofE Trustee you will make a meaningful contribution to our work, helping young people develop themselves so they have the skills and confidence to make the most of whatever life throws at them. 

The duties of a trustee are as follows:

• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy.

• Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (for example, its trust deed, constitution or memorandum and articles of association), charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuit of its charitable objects (for example, the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public.

• Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets.

• Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation.

• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.

• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation.

• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal, and remuneration of the chief executive (if the charity employs staff) 

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Trustees Board reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Person specification

A commitment to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and its vision, mission, and values

– An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

– Experience as a Board member in a business or charitable organisation

– A qualified accountant who has experience as a CFO or audit committee partner, candidates must have the capacity and capability to undertake the role of DofE’s Chair of Audit, Investment and Risk Committee

– Ability to distil complex information and bring a pragmatic approach to its application

– Understanding of risk and how to identify, manage and mitigate risks and at Board level

– Highly-effective communication and interpersonal skills

– Independent, innovative, strategic and creative thinker

– Sound judgement, ability to weigh up different options and information and make informed decisions

– Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with other Trustees and the Executive Leadership Team

– A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity accountability, openness, honesty and

Trustee recruitment:

To meet the changing needs and aspirations of the most diverse generation of young adults ever, our Board needs a range of perspectives, skills, and lived experience.

The DofE Trustee Board is particularly keen to recruit a new trustee with skills, expertise and lived experience in the following areas:

• A qualified accountant and has professional experience as a CFO or as an Audit partner. 
• Candidates must have the capacity and capability to undertake the role of DofE’s Chair of Audit, Investment and Risk Committee
• Experience as a Board member in a business or charitable organisation.

Terms of Appointment

Trustees are appointed for an initial four-year term with the possibility to extend for a further four-year period.

Time commitment

• Four formal board meetings per year (3 hours per meeting), ordinarily held in central London or via Microsoft Teams.

• Sub-committee meetings - circa four a year or when required (usually 1-2 hours per meeting).

• A board strategy away day per year.

• Reading time for papers.

Time to participate in essential training and ongoing Trustee development.

• Contribution to charity events and activities, such as fundraising events and Staff Conference.

Induction, training and governance

Safe recruitment practice applies to our Trustees, and if appointed we will expect you to complete an induction to the DofE, visit our sites and meet key staff, volunteers and participants.

Trustees are required to provide suitable references, undertake a basic Disclosure and Barring Service check. (e.g. DBS/PVG or similar),fit and proper person checks and provide confirmation of identity and any relevant qualifications. In addition, we will ask you to declare any relevant interests on an annual basis and sign up to our Trustee Code of Conduct.

To support you in your role as a Trustee we will provide training in relation to safeguarding and data protection as part of your induction and offer ongoing learning and development opportunities as well as an optional mentor and regular guidance and performance check ins throughout your time as a Trustee.

How to apply

For further information about DofE UK, our work and impact, please see our website. 

If you require further information regarding the opportunity which is not covered within the Trustee Recruitment Pack, please reach out to Lauren Walden-Pidding. 

The closing date for applications midnight on 19th May 2024

Interview will take place: from week commencing 27th May 2024.

To apply, please submit a CV supported by a covering letter outlining your motivation for applying and highlighting how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the specific requirements of the role.

Please also note we will require two professional references in support of your application.

About We Are Family 

We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years. 

The Role

We Are Family is seeking to appoint a committed and motivated Treasurer who will work closely with the Board of Trustees and play an active part in the governance of the organisation’s finances.

This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses -  such as travel / childcare -  covered by We Are Family.  The Company Secretary can be based anywhere in the UK. 

Commitment

• We Are Family typically holds four Board meetings per year

• In addition to being involved in Board meetings, the Treasurer should expect to spend 8-10 hours each month on work related to the finances of the charity.

• The normal term of appointment for a Treasurer is three years, after which there is the opportunity to renew for a further three-year period. 

Skills and Experience 

In this role you will:

• Advise on the financial implications of We Are Family’s strategic plan.

• Be an active member of the We Are Family Finance, Fundraising & Resources Committee who meet once every quarter.

• Oversee presentation of budgets, internal management accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees.

• Lead on the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.

• Lead the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies.

• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity.

• Oversee the implementation of and monitoring specific financial controls and adherence to systems.

• Oversee the charity’s financial risk management process.

• Review and approve payments (including payroll).

• Be the main point of contact for We Are Family’s bank.

• Act as a counter signatory on important applications to funders.

• Liaise with the appropriate member of staff responsible for the financial activities of the organisation.

• Liaise with the external auditors or independent examiner on specific issues such as the auditor’s or examiner’s management letter and the related board representations. 

This role would suit an individual with:

• Knowledge of charity governance and management

• Experience in a compliance, risk or business management role

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Organisation skills, with the ability to work to deadlines

• Good IT skills, to include Zoom and Google Suite or MS Office.

Although many of our current Board members are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.

One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board. 

To Apply 

If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please send us a copy of your CV and we will contact you with our Recruitment Pack.

Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.

Applications close at 12 p.m. Monday 20th May.

About the role.

Following the decision of our current Chair, the Solihull College & University CentreCorporation welcomes interest from candidates who have the time, passion, experience, and interest to become a Governor and our Chair Designate in summer 2024.

Initially joining as the named Chair Designate, with time to engage in an extended and supportive handover period through the 2024 autumn term, we look forward to welcoming the person appointed as Chair of Solihull College & University Centre from early 2025.

The Chair provides leadership to the Corporation and its members, working closely with the Principal & CEO and the Director of Corporate Governance, Risk & Compliance. Supported by two Vice Chairs, the Chair ensures Governors have oversight of organisational development and are made aware of risks affecting strategy, finance, staffing, student experience, or reputation, through receiving plans and reports from the Principal & CEO and her senior team.

The Corporation is comparable to a board of non-executive directors and is composed of members from the local community, stakeholders, students and staff members.

Actively involved in long-term visioning and approving the educational character of Solihull College & University Centre, the Chair ensures Governors’ diverse skills, areas of specialist knowledge, networks, and professional opinions are used for the advancement of the organisation and in the most appropriate way.

With up to 19 Members of the Corporation, plus two External Members, the Chair ensures professional engagement between the Corporation and both employees and learners, through both formal means (meetings) and informal opportunities (such as events and visits).

Governors help the organisation to maintain a long-term focus whilst working on its shorter-term goals and plans. The day-to-day management is very much the responsibility of the Principal & CEO, and the executive management team. The Corporation is advised by a Director of Corporate Governance, Risk & Compliance who is part of the senior leadership team.

There are seven meetings of the Corporation throughout the academic year (September through to July). In addition to this, there are additional meetings of the Search & Governance Committee, the Audit & Risk Committee, the Remuneration Committee, and the Financial Oversight Group. Opportunities for Governors to participate in visits and meetings with students are arranged throughout the year.

It is expected that – with preparation for meetings, regular contact with Governors and both the Principal & CEO and Director of Corporate Governance, Risk & Compliance, plus any ambassadorial duties and training – the person appointed should plan to spend up to five days per month fulfilling the duties of the Chair.

Who we are looking for.

To be successful in this non-executive Chair role, we believe it is important that the person appointed brings experience in strategic leadership. When considering the requirement to be the ‘critical friend’ for a chief executive of a complex £50m business of education and training, set across several campuses and operating across the West Midlands, having a Chair with skills and knowledge which supports the development of the Principal & CEO, the executive team, and the broader Corporation and its members, is important.

Ideally, our next Chair will be an experienced non-executive, and know from experience the difference between operational leadership, and strategic oversight and scrutiny. The application of this knowledge will be welcomed, so that we may continue to benefit from the mutual respect that exists between the non-executive and executive representatives at the College.

If the person appointed doesn’t have direct experience of being a non-executive director or board member, then we will expect them to be able to demonstrate their ability to chair well and know how to get the very best out of a talented and committed voluntary non-executive group.

More than experience, we need a Chair who is passionate about the work that we do to transform the lives of our learners and provide opportunities to help shape their futures. The further education sector is a wonderful and enriching part of our education sector and a place where anyone, with any background or starting point can come, learn, and progress.

We are very open to the background and sector experience of the next Chair. We recognise the many potential benefits of appointing someone with either public, private, or third-sector leadership experience.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 12 p.m. Monday 20th May. 

This role is one of two Trustee positions on the Board providing oversight of the Trust’s finances and financial management. In addition to the general duties of trustees (more information here), the role involves:

· Monitoring the financial standing of the charity.

· Ensuring that the charity’s finances are managed responsibly.

· Overseeing the reporting of the financial health of the charity to the Board of Trustees and of the charity’s financial risk-management process.

· Providing general support and oversight for the effective running of the Trust as a member of the Board of Trustees.

The role may also include chair responsibility for the Trust’s Finance Committee (not essential).

Specific Finance Responsibilities – in conjunction with the Chair of the Finance Committee

Scrutiny of papers produced by the Head of Finance & Operations (HoFO) and the wider Senior Management Team in the following areas:

Budgeting and strategic financial planning

• Ensure that strategic plans are financially appraised and that implementation plans are aligned with budgets.
• Provide constructive challenge to the annual and longer-term budget and forecasting processes.
• Ensure transparency and accountability in resource allocation.

Management Reporting

• Ensure that a high standard of management accounting is maintained.
• Liaise with the Chair of the Finance Committee to guide the HoFO in the preparation and production of high quality management accounts to the Board.

Statutory Financial Reporting

• Ensure the finalisation of statutory financial accounts by the HoFO in line with charity regulations and statements of recommended practice and the completion of the external audit process. Assist fellow trustees to formally approve the Trustees’ Annual Report and Annual Accounts

Reserves Policy

• Review the reserves policy.

Keep the Board informed regularly of the free reserves position and advise on strategies for coping with changing circumstances.

Governance and Financial Control

• Ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are controlled, invested and economically spent in line with governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
• Attend quarterly Finance Committee meetings and support the Chair of the Finance Committee in reporting financial matters to the Board of trustees.

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is an international professional body for town planners with over 27,000 members in 88 countries. They are responsible for maintaining professional standards and accrediting world class planning courses both in the UK and internationally. They have offices in London, Edinburgh and Cardiff. They are the voice of the profession. They engage with governments, experts, advocates  and international bodies to promote good planning, lead on policy development and research, and promote planning in the long-term public interest. They support their members to deliver outstanding placemaking that creates inclusive, healthy, prosperous, sustainable and happy communities.

The RTPI is seeking a Co-opted Trustee with knowledge and experience in one of the following areas: digital transformation, organisational development or major project development.

What will you be doing?

The RTPI Board of Trustees (BOT) is responsible for making decisions in the following areas.

 Leadership 

• Shaping the RTPI’s corporate planning processes – including the corporate strategy, the business plan, the annual budget and supporting documents such as committee work plans. 
• Ensuring the RTPI has appropriate policies in place on key matters such as health and safety, risk management, data protection and financial management. 

 Statutory responsibilities 

• Ensuring that the Institute is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit 
• Complying with the Institute’s governing document and the law 
• Acting in the Institute’s best interests 
• Managing the Institute’s resources responsibly 
• Acting with reasonable care and skill 

 Governance 

• Approving the RTPI’s annual report and accounts. 
• Reviewing the auditors’ report on the annual accounts. 
• Agreeing the subscription structure for the following year, subject to consultation with the General Assembly. 

 Building relationships 

• Receiving reports from the Institute’s standing committees, subcommittees, panels and groups (if any).. 
• Receiving reports from the President, Chief Executive, volunteers and senior staff. 
• Fostering and maintaining good relationships with Trustees, committee members, volunteers, and staff. 

What are we looking for?

This role will suit an individual with: 

• An appropriate professional qualification
• An awareness of and commitment to principles of good governance 
• The ability and willingness to work as part of a team and to act as a ‘critical friend’ to Senior Executive Team
• A commitment to equality and diversity as it applies to the Institute’s work and to how the organisation, including its Trustees, operates 
• The ability to analyse complex information, question, probe and seek clarification so to come to an independent and unbiased view 
• Experience in: 
• Organisational development or
• Digital Transformation or
• Major project development. 
• Experience in a similar voluntary role in the charity or not for profit sector would be an advantage 

Board meetings are held during office hours either in person or virtually. There are 6 annually. While RTPI are headquartered in London, it is not a prerequisite that Trustees are London based. 

Due to planned expansion of the Trust Board, the ATLP is seeking 3 dedicated and experienced individuals to serve as Trustees on our Board of Trustees. As a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) Trustee, you will be one of the legal directors of the company and will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction, governance, and overall success of our partnership. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the education and well-being of young people in the communities that we serve.

The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (“ATLP”) is a growing multi-academy trust of 21 schools and one teaching school, based in Birmingham, Coventry, North Warwickshire and Staffordshire, with more than 10,000 students and over 1,000 members of staff. All academies are quite distinctive and separate schools, serving different communities and phases: but all either are, or have the capacity to become good and outstanding. 

Key Trustee Responsibilities

Governance and Leadership:

• Act as a responsible and active member of the Trust Board, providing leadership and guidance to achieve its strategic objectives.
• Attend Trust Board meetings, sub-committee meetings, and other relevant meetings to contribute to decision-making processes.
• Oversee trust compliance with legal and regulatory requirements governing academies and trusts as a member of the trust’s legally accountable body.
• Undertaking mandatory training [1]as required and developing knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis to support effective delivery of the role.

Strategic Planning:

• Contribute to the development of the trust's strategic plan and policies, ensuring alignment with the trust's mission, vision, and values.
• Help set strategic objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement across the trust.

Financial Oversight:

• Provide financial oversight by reviewing and approving budgets, financial statements, and expenditure and contributing to long-term strategic planning.
• Monitor the financial health of the trust and ensure Executives demonstrate responsible financial management.

Educational Excellence:

• Support and challenge the executive leadership team to maintain and improve educational standards across the trust both in formal appraisal processes and throughout the year.
• Foster a culture of high expectations and accountability.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Engage with a diverse range of stakeholders through various formal and informal channels, including parents, teachers, students, and the local community.
• Getting to know schools within the trust, including undertaking planned occasional visits during school hours.
• Act as an ambassador for the trust and promote positive relationships with external partners.

Risk Management:

• Identify and mitigate risks to the trust's operations, reputation, and finances.
• Ensure robust safeguarding procedures are in place and adhered to.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A passion for improving outcomes for young people.
•  Previous experience in governance, leadership, or strategic roles, preferably within the education sector.
•  Strong understanding of the principles of corporate governance, finance, and risk management.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Due to the planned committee memberships across the three roles, recent or specific experience in any of the following areas will be held in high regard;

1. Qualification or professional knowledge of accountancy or audit processes.
2. Experience in financial forecasting and strategic planning.
3. Educational Technology (Ed Tech) knowledge.
4. Estates and sustainability knowledge.
5. Practical experience of applying risk management and/or internal controls principles.
6. Programme or project management experience.
7. HR leadership (incl. appraisal processes) knowledge.
8. Knowledge of Teaching School Hub operations

Time Commitment:

The role of a Trustee typically involves attending regular meetings and dedicating time to prepare for those meetings, as well as occasional additional commitments as needed. We expect the time commitment to be one day a month spread across various activities such as preparation of board meetings, reading board papers, ad hoc discussions and conversations with board members and the executive team, and attending events throughout the year.

The schedule of planned meetings for 2023-24 is available and will be shared with shortlisted candidates during the interview process to ascertain capacity/availability to attend the scheduled meetings.

Benefits:

• The opportunity to make a significant and positive impact on the lives of young people in your community.
• Personal and professional development through involvement in governance and leadership.
• Networking opportunities with professionals in the education and wider sectors.

Citizens Advice Southampton is looking for a new Treasurer

Our Treasurer is a vital member of our Board of Trustees; this is a voluntary position. Unremunerated but with reasonable expenses covered. 

Skills; we are looking for anyone with relevant financial qualifications or experience who is interested in becoming our Treasurer

Where; Southampton

Time; the Board of Trustees meets once a month apart from August and December when there are no meetings. In addition, the Treasurer will be part of a focussed committee which also meets once a month, such as Finance or Governance and Risk.

About Citizens Advice Southampton; This local and essential Charity provides vital support to the people of Southampton. Integrated into the local Community, Citizens Advice Southampton’s incredible volunteers and paid staff help more than 6500 people with 11000 issues every year, providing advice that is free, independent, impartial and confidential.

What will you be doing? Duties include;  explain, guide and advise the board on the key assumptions and financial implications of the Citizens Advice Southampton budgets, operational and strategic plans  ensure that the organisation has an appropriate reserves policy and a realistic budget that meets the services’ needs  ensure that annual accounts are prepared in compliance with SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice) Accounting for Charities and submitted by the deadline to the Charity Commission and/or Registrar of Companies, and make arrangements for them to be audited or independently examined as required

What’s in it for you? Not only will you directly contribute to the success of this essential charity in supporting the local community, for you personally there are many benefits. Such as;  Meet others and build relationships with other trustees, paid staff, volunteers and other community members  Build on your governance and leadership skills  Increase your employability

What are we looking for? Although you will not necessarily need to have prior experience of being a Trustee, we are specifically looking to recruit anyone with relevant experience which will support them in their role as Treasurer. Useful skills for our Treasurer include;  have financial qualifications or experience  some knowledge or experience of charity finances, fundraising, financial consequences and pension schemes  excellent good numeracy skills to understand accounts  be able to explain complex financial information in an accessible way  Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions  Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of Citizens Advice Southampton  Willingness and ability to learn, and to develop and understand your own attitude  Ability to work effectively as part of a team  Ability to think creatively and to exercise good independent judgement  Ability to understand and accept the responsibility and liability of being a trustee

Citizens Advice Southampton Citizens Advice Southampton are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from all who meet the above specification irrespective of sex, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief, age, or disability.