Board trustees volunteer roles

Zebra is seeking a qualified accountant to join our board of trustees as our next Treasurer.

Zebra is a not-for-profit social enterprise (exempt charity) providing accommotation to postgraduate international students living in London. We believe in the importance of international studies and have been going for over 60 years. We are a healthy organisation with a strong reputation and ambitious plans for the future.

This is an important time for Zebra. We are currently going through the process of deregistering with the Regulator of Social Housing and are changing our accounting practices and systems as we make the transition away from the housing association sector and to a more appropriate structure to prepare us for growth in the future. We have an experienced Finance Manager on our staff team who you will be working with along with the CEO and the rest of the board members.

We ideally need a Treasurer with some understanding of the charity or social enterprise sector. This is an unpaid volunteer role - there are four boars meetings per year (all online), Audit and Risk Committee meeetings (also online), and occasional meet ups in London - but you can be based anywhere to carry out this role.

Duties

• Acting as a mentor to the Finance Manager, supporting her through this period of transition while Zebra puts in place a new structure and new financial systems

• Chairing the Audit and Risk Committee - number of meetings per year to be decided as this is currently under review

• Meeting with our external auditors on Zoom

• Reviewing our quarterly accounts, annual accounts and reports and providing feedback

• Using your expertise to provide advice and support to other board members, including our Co-Chairs, to support them in understanding our finances and helping them to be able to provide good scrutiny and governance

• Attendance of four board meetings per year on Zoom, where you will provide input and opinions especially around financial matters

• Attending one Board Strategy day per year in London for which expenses can be paid (and ideally also attending our Christmas meal)

• The Treasurer should expect to serve for a minimum of 12 months

To apply please submit your CV in the first instance.

Devon Community Foundation inspires people to give and helps Devon’s communities to thrive by changing lives together. We are the largest independent grant funder for charities and community organisations in the county, created by our communities and for our communities. 

We work with donors, community groups and charities across Devon, taking time to understand what each is trying to accomplish and supporting them to do so with impact.

We work with our generous supporters to reach the people most in need and help to create equality and opportunity in the diverse communities across Devon. We are also part of the wider, 47-strong UK Community Foundation network, who, for 30 years, has distributed millions of pounds towards smaller, locally based organisations, and provides vital support to every postcode in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 

Devon Community Foundation  

Chair  

Across Devon, with UK wide representation 

Unremunerated, with expenses paid.  

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the Board of an ambitious organisation, keen to continue to grow the scale, reach and impact of our work. With strategic planning under way, a dedicated team, committed trustees and a strong reputation across Devon, we have a strong platform from which to operate and effect change in the communities we serve.

We are looking to appoint a Chair to lead and inspire, as well as to act as an ambassador for the organisation, who brings: 

• Prior experience as a charity trustee and solid understanding of good governance practices

• Experience of operating at strategic leadership level 

• Experience of acting as ambassador and raising the profile of an organisation, leading to positive outcomes.

We are seeking a Chair who shares our values as well as our passion and commitment to the communities of Devon.

We are actively seeking to bring more diversity of perspectives and experience to our Board and welcome applications from currently underrepresented groups at board level. 

For further information, to access the appointment brief and to apply to this role, please visit the Prospectus website.

If you have any queries or wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors Anna Gardet or Erica Ritchie via email.

Recruitment Timetable: 

Deadline for applications:  Monday 20th October 2025 

First round Interviews with DCF: 27th October 2025 

Second round Interviews with DCF: w/c 3rd November 2025 

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to help shape the future of a vibrant, values-led charity with a long-standing commitment to social justice and co-production.

About The Ark

The Ark is a local charity providing activities and services in Berkshire, centred in Bracknell Forest. Primarily a Disabled People’s Organisation, we also provide support to unpaid carers and extended family as well as engaging in work that promotes access and inclusion in the wider community.

What will you be doing?

As we grow in scale and ambition, strong and imaginative financial leadership is more vital than ever. This role is central to ensuring our financial resilience, shaping strategy, and guiding us through change while staying true to our mission. It’s not a trustee position, but you’ll sit at the heart of our governance - working closely with the Board and the senior management team to provide expert, inclusive, and accessible financial oversight.

To support both the Trustee Board and the Management team at The Ark Trust in developing, evaluating, delivering and funding our work we are seeking an experienced Finance practitioner to act as a Finance Strategic Friend.

While this is not a Trustee role, our new Finance Strategic Friend will play an integral part in our governance structure. They will sit on the Trustee Board and Chair the Finance sub-committee, working closely with the Board and the CEO to provide strategic leadership in ensuring strong financial governance and resilience at The Ark Trust.

The Finance Strategic Friend will oversee the monitoring of the organisation’s finances on behalf of the Board, and act as a trusted advisor to the CEO—supporting sound financial planning and compliance, while helping to ensure the charity’s financial health aligns with our future ambitions.

The expected time commitment for this role is up to two hours per week.

What are we looking for?

We're looking for someone who shares our ambition and values—someone ready to grow with us and help shape our organisation in a way that truly fits who we are. You'll bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

In terms of experience, we're seeking a Finance professional, a qualified Accountant (or equivalent, qualified by experience). You'll be a strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity. You will also be a clear communicator with the ability to bring the financial information alive to non finance specialists.

What difference will you make?

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to help shape the future of a vibrant, values-led charity with a long-standing commitment to social justice and co-production. For over 25 years, The Ark has been empowering people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, and unpaid carers across Bracknell Forest and the surrounding areas - not just to participate, but to lead and thrive.

About It’s Time:

It’s Time is a charity created by and for young adults who have experienced the death of a parent. Founded by people who know this grief first-hand, the charity ensures no one aged 18–35 has to navigate such loss alone. Through peer-led support, events, free group therapy, and tailored resources, It’s Time offers connection and understanding during an often isolating time. The charity also partners with universities, workplaces, and families to promote better bereavement support - recognising that grief doesn’t follow a timeline, and the help offered to young adults shouldn’t either.

The charity was founded in 2021 and we now run local peer support groups throughout England, have a year long waiting list for our group therapy and supports around 500 people in the online community.  We recognise that as we grow our needs and those of our community are changing and are looking for someone skilled in charity growth to steer us into the next phase of our development.

About the Role
We’re looking for a skilled and committed Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and lead the financial stewardship of our growing charity. This is a vital voluntary role for someone with strong financial expertise who wants to make a meaningful difference in a purpose-driven organisation.

As Treasurer, you will ensure the financial health, integrity, and sustainability of the charity – guiding strategy, overseeing controls, and making sure the Board understands its financial responsibilities. You’ll also chair our Finance & Remuneration Committee and contribute to wider governance and leadership.

Time Commitment

• 4 board meetings annually (Tuesday evenings via Zoom)

• 1 annual in-person strategy day (usually a Saturday in London)

• Participation in any relevant sub-groups

• Ad hoc involvement in events, meetings, or training as needed

• Monthly bookkeeping or operational finance tasks (optional)

Remuneration
This is a voluntary position. Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Key Responsibilities
Chair the Finance & Remuneration Committee
Oversee budgets, accounts, reserves policy, and investment activity
Present financial reports and key updates to the Board
Ensure financial procedures and controls are robust and compliant
Advise on the financial implications of strategy and fundraising
Ensure preparation and filing of annual accounts and reports
Keep the Board informed of financial duties and risks
Support the Chair and wider Board in strong, timely governance

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified chartered accountant (or equivalent) – preferred

• Experience in charity finance, governance, or fundraising – desirable

• Skilled in interpreting and communicating financial information

• Confidence to challenge and offer independent judgement

Personal Qualities

• Passionate about the charity’s mission and social impact

• Able to provide leadership, clarity, and structure

• A collaborative and constructive team player

• Willing to engage with staff and stakeholders as needed

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Term
The Treasurer will serve a three-year term, with the option to renew for one additional term.

Our partner is a leading alliance of organisations working to improve the lives of workers in global supply chains. Their mission is to promote human rights at work, uphold dignity, and eliminate exploitation and abuse.

They are seeking a qualified accountant to join the Board as Treasurer. The ideal candidate will have senior financial management experience, a clear and confident communication style, and a strong interest in ethical trade and workers' rights. Prior experience in the not-for-profit or international development sectors would be an advantage.

The Treasurer oversees the organisation’s financial health and sustainability, reviews and presents budgets and accounts, advises on financial strategy, reserves, and investment policies, and ensures robust financial controls. The role also involves chairing the Finance & Remuneration Sub-Committee and advising the Board on its financial responsibilities and risks.

Board and Committee meetings are held quarterly, in-person in London - although occasional remote attendance is possible.

____________________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website

RSPCA London South East Branch

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Become our principal communications trustee and help us to maintain our branches affairs and improve animals’ lives.

Overview of the Branch Secretary opportunity

As a Branch Secretary, you would be in an essential volunteer role as the principal communications trustee managing and maintaining the administrative affairs of our branch. Using your expertise and skills, you will be able to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. We are the RSPCA and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteers are incredible, they play an essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work every day.

The RSPCA London South East Branch

The London South East Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The London South East Branch has two retail shops (Sydenham Road and Norwood Road) and supports the work of the Inspectorate through rehoming of animals within the branch area.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Secretary

• To act as the primary contact point for all branch communications with the national Society, the branch committee, and the branch membership.
• Arrange branch meetings, ensure accurate minutes are taken and distributed in accordance with branch rules.
• Ensure all branch committee decisions are implemented and actions completed.
• Arrange the branch AGM including the compilation and distribution of the annual report, nominations, and agenda in line with the strict timetable laid down in the branch rules.
• Arrange the timely dissemination of the contents of all correspondence and literature received by the branch, ensuring availability to all committee members, and reply to all branch correspondence where necessary.
• Order and distribute RSPCA stationery, leaflets, posters and other fundraising and promotional material.
• Liaise with the Branch Partnership Manager (BPM) and group chief inspector and notify them of all branch meetings.
• Advise the BSS of all changes to branch facilities, services, and contact details.
• In the absence of the membership secretary, assume responsibility for the maintenance of the branch membership list.
• Submit recommendations for national Society awards to the BSS, in accordance with the wishes of the committee.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare.

Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

No previous trustee experience? That’s OK! We welcome applications from anyone interested in developing their skills by becoming a trustee and will provide relevant training.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Secretary

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee, and to ensure it is the right decision for you view the Government Charity Trustee Guidance.

There is some information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees, and we have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Fundraising Chair to lead our newly established Fundraising Committee. This is a voluntary leadership position that will play a crucial role in securing the financial resources needed to expand our impact and support more young people in their journey to employment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for building and chairing a dedicated fundraising committee, developing strategic fundraising initiatives, and driving our organization's revenue generation efforts to support our mission.

About Shadow to Shine

Shadow to Shine is a dedicated charity committed to supporting young people aged 16-25 into meaningful employment opportunities. Through our programs and initiatives, we help bridge the gap between education and career success for 120+ young people each year, providing vital resources, mentorship, and pathways to sustainable employment.

In our 5 years of running we have delivered over 

50+ programmes for 1130+ young people

10+ corporate partnerships 

300 hours of mentoring 

And are getting ready to kick start the next phase of our growth!

Key Responsibilities

Committee Leadership

• Recruit, build, and lead a volunteer Fundraising Committee of 5-8 committed members

• Chair regular committee meetings and ensure effective governance

• Provide strategic direction and vision for all fundraising activities

• Foster a collaborative and results-oriented committee culture

• Report regularly to the Board of Trustees on fundraising progress and strategy

Fundraising Strategy 

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising strategy

• Identify and prioritize diverse revenue streams including grants, corporate partnerships, individual donations, and fundraising events

• Set ambitious yet achievable annual fundraising targets

• Oversee the planning and execution of major fundraising campaigns and events

• Build and maintain relationships with major donors, corporate sponsors, and grant-making organizations

Stakeholder Engagement

(Potential & current donors, community, funders)

• Represent the charity at fundraising events, donor meetings, and community gatherings

• Cultivate long-term relationships with current and prospective supporters

• Work collaboratively with the CEO/Executive Director and Board of Trustees

• Serve as an ambassador for the charity's mission and impact

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure all fundraising activities comply with relevant regulations and charity law

• Maintain high standards of donor stewardship and transparency

• Oversee proper acknowledgment and recognition of supporters

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising initiatives

Essential Experience

• Proven track record in fundraising, business development, or senior leadership roles

• Experience in recruiting and leading volunteer teams or committees

• Strong network of professional and personal contacts

• Excellent communication and presentation skills

• Ability to develop and lead multi-stream fundraising strategies across event corporates and grant channels. 

• Understanding of charity sector regulations and best practices

• Strong understanding of ethical fundraising practices and donor engagement 

Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience in charity or non-profit fundraising

• Knowledge of grant application processes

• Experience with corporate partnership development

• Background in youth development or employment support

• Professional qualifications in marketing, business, or related fields

Personal Qualities

• Passionate commitment to supporting young people into employment

• Natural leader with ability to inspire and motivate others

• Excellent interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence

• Resilient and results-oriented mindset

• High level of integrity and professionalism

• Collaborative approach with strong team-working abilities

Time Commitment

This is a flexible role, requiring approximate 6-8 hours per month, with peaks during campaign period. Meetings are typical held in the evening or virtually, accommodating professional and family commitments. 

• 6-8 hours per month (Once the recruitment of committee is complete this will reduce)

• Monthly Fundraising Committee meetings (1hr)

• Quarterly Board of Trustees meetings for reporting

• Attendance at key fundraising events and donor meetings

• Additional time during major campaign periods

What We Offer

• Opportunity to make a significant and direct impact on young people's lives

• Meaningful leadership role shaping the future of a growing and dynamic charity

• Professional development and networking opportunities

• Recognition for your contributions and achievements

• Supportive environment with access to relevant training and resources

• Satisfaction of building something meaningful from the ground up

Reporting Structure

The Fundraising Chairman will work closely with the CEO/Executive Director and report to the Board of Trustees. The role involves collaboration with existing staff members and volunteers across all areas of the charity's work.

Application Process

To apply for this rewarding volunteer position, please submit:

• A covering letter outlining your interest and relevant experience

• Current CV highlighting fundraising and leadership experience

• Contact details for two professional references

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting young people into employment.

Voluntary Director

St Mary Redcliffe Church Lands Charity

In-person and online early evening meetings Bristol

Approximately 10 hours per month

With a history spanning over 800 years, St Mary Redcliffe Church Lands Charity is a charitable trust managing the historic endowment of St Mary Redcliffe Church, It provides long-term stability, support, and funding to St Mary Redcliffe Church and the parish. ​ They manage a £27 million trust fund, historic properties, and charitable grants to ensure the flourishing of the church and community

It is a time of change in Redcliffe.  Amidst the major construction in the north, a wider Neighbourhood Development Plan heralds a period of transformation.  There is a plan to revitalise Redcliffe Way, making it a vibrant mixed-use area that connects the north and south of the parish along with a new community hub and a blend of housing, commercial spaces and public amenities, fostering a lively neighbourhood.

St Mary Redcliffe Church Lands Charity is managed by a board of Voluntary Directors of the Trust, which itself is the Trustee, and they are looking to source several high calibre individuals who can contribute to the day-to-day work and ongoing development of this long-standing, busy charity. 

Main Responsibilities: Strategic planning, financial oversight, governance, and community engagement. ​

We welcome applicants with experience in:

• Accountancy & Finance ​
• Asset Management
• Charitable Grant Making ​
• Charity & Real Estate Law ​
• Faith-Based Leadership
• Property Management & Surveying ​

First-time trustees are encouraged to apply! ​ Living or working in the parish is an advantage, and candidates must be sympathetic to the principles of the Church of England. ​

For further details and to apply, please send your CV to Leighann Beck quoting reference JO2563

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: ​ We welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, sex, race, religion, or belief. ​

We are looking to recruit a Volunteer for the position of Treasurer who can oversee & support the Board, CEO & the Business & Central Services Manager on the financial management aspects of Leeway Domestic Violence and Abuse Services, from supporting with the financial forecasting, budgets & management account analysis, as well as all other financial related tasks and duties that the charity needs.

You must have previous experience in a financial role such as in Accounting and a good understanding of charities. You must be committed and dedicated to the role and the charity, ensuring any deadlines are met.

Experience:

• Charity Accounting: 2 years (Preferred)
• Accounting: 2 years (Desirable)

Women only to apply: S.7(2)(e) SDA applies. ‘Exempt under the Equality Act 2010 Schedule 9, Part 1’.

Volunteer Treasurer Role Description

The responsibilities of the Treasurer at board level are to:

• Liaise with finance staff and with the organisation’s independent examiner or auditor, in order to ensure that the organisation keeps proper accounts, in compliance with Companies House and Charity Commission regulations.

• Chair the finance sub-committee meetings, who are responsible for: -

• Reviewing the organisation’s financial performance.

• Reviewing policies for finance and investment.

• Ensuring that the organisation has robust and effective financial controls in place.

• Report on financial matters to the management committee.

The treasurer will share these responsibilities with the finance sub-committee, and staff will carry out day to day finance functions.

Other information:

·Expenses: paid in accordance with the Leeway volunteer expenses policy and following provision of receipts

·Insurance Cover: Trustee Indemnity Insurance in place

·Training: Trustee induction and ongoing training

·Recruitment method: Application form and skill-based Interview process

Applicants must support and have awareness of the aims and purposes of Leeway Domestic Violence and Abuse Services. 

Our partner is dedicated to improving awareness, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for people with heart failure. Supporting over 1,300 healthcare professionals, they promote research, education, and policy change.

They seek a qualified accountant with senior financial management experience, ideally in the non-profit sector, to serve as Treasurer. Strong analytical skills and experience in risk management, internal controls, and audits are essential, along with the ability to explain complex financial matters clearly.

The Treasurer will oversee financial health, advise on strategic plans, review budgets and accounts, ensure compliance, and liaise with auditors. They will work closely with the Finance Director, Chief Executive, and Board to ensure sustainability and good governance.

The Board meets 4-5 times per year (two in London), with the Finance Committee meeting three times annually, mostly online. The total estimated time commitment required for the role is 1-2 days per month (flexible).

________________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner is an acclaimed vocational ballet school providing exceptional full-time classical ballet and academic education, helping students achieve excellence in both the performing arts and wider life.

They are seeking a strategically minded individual with significant experience in financial management to serve as Treasurer. The ideal candidate will be a qualified finance professional with the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly, and with a keen interest in the arts.

As a Trustee and Chair of the Finance Sub-Committee, the post holder will oversee the school’s financial health and sustainability, review and present draft budgets and management accounts, advise on reserves and investment policies, and ensure compliance with charity accounting standards.

The Board and Finance Sub-Committee both meet four times a year, with meetings currently taking place remotely. The minimum time commitment required for the role is 5 hours per month.

___________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Can you help us to bring in the funds we need to make the food bank a success? 

We are looking for a volunteer Fundraising Lead to play a significant role in shaping a fundraising strategy, help raise awareness of Bounds Green Food Bank (BGFB) and generate income through events, projects and fundraising activities.

We currently raise money through grants, individual donations and community projects. We would like to broaden our fundraising initiatives and are looking for someone to raise funds, meet fundraising targets, raise our profile with key funding partners, and inspire relevant groups to support us.

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,500 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items and helping alleviate household food insecurity. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people and families in crisis situations and needing assistance.

The role: 

• Work with the Board of Trustees to agree a fundraising strategy, including setting annual fundraising targets

• Help to develop a fundraising team

• Identify income-generating opportunities and develop projects

• Build, develop and maintain relationships to secure funding

• Provide guidance to other teams that support fundraising initiatives e.g. the Grants Writing Team, Events Team and the Communication Team

Person specification: 

• Passionate about food insecurity and reducing social isolation

• Experience working in a fundraising role, including grants, trusts and foundations

• Ability and willingness  to work to financial targets 

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and attention to detail

• Able to work flexibly and under pressure

• Ability to be creative and entrepreneurial in order to find new ways to raise funds

Benefits:

• Gain access to free workshops for volunteers and upskill on a range of topics (conflict resolution, mental health first aid, arts and crafts, and more)

• Join free social events for volunteers (such as picnics, walks, creative workshops and celebration events)

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers

Invitation to apply for the position of Society Chair

A. Description of the Society

The Society is the third oldest local conservation charity in England, founded in 1897 by many of the public figures who  campaigned to procure the passing of the 1871 Hampstead Heath Act, which saved Hampstead Heath as a public open space in perpetuity, and who went on to found the National Trust.

The Society is an unincorporated association, constituted by its contractual constitution, and is a registered charity. Its charitable objects are as follows:

3. (a)  to preserve those parts of Hampstead Heath which are subject to section 16 of The Hampstead Heath Act 1871* in their wild and natural state, and also to preserve the natural and characteristic features of the later additions to the Heath, so far as is consistent with their enjoyment by the public;

(b) to promote and maintain the amenities and characteristics of the environs of the Heath, and of the buildings and streets of Hampstead; and

(c) to promote public interest in the study of natural history, conservation, and the history of the areas referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule 3.

*[Section 16 provides: The [Metropolitan] Board [of Works] shall at all times preserve, as far as may be, the natural aspect and state of the Heath, and to that end shall protect the turf, gorse, heather, timber and other trees, shrubs, and brush-wood thereon.]

The Society’s geographical remit is limited to Hampstead Heath, the fringes of the Heath, and the old borough of Hampstead (now legally subsumed into the London Borough of Camden).

It is governed by a ‘general committee’ of some 15 trustees which is supported by (i) three subcommittees (each of approximately a dozen members) responsible for the distinct areas of Hampstead Town, Hampstead Heath, and local planning applications, and (ii) a Plaque Selection Panel which is responsible for the erection of plaques on buildings in Hampstead Town commemorating famous residents.

The Chair, along with principal Society officers, is elected annually at the annual general meeting.

The Society has approximately 2,000 members and is in sound financial and reputational shape. Further details of the Society may be found on the Society's website. 

B. General role of the Chair

The general role of the Society Chair includes the duties outlined in the English Charity Commission document entitled “The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do”, namely:

· help plan and run general committee meetings and in members’ meetings

· take the lead on ensuring that meetings are properly run and recorded

· take the lead on ensuring that trustees comply with their duties and the charity is well governed

· act as a spokesperson for the charity

· act as a link between trustees and committee members.

Reference should also be made to “A Chair’s Compass - A guide for chairs of charities and non-profit organisations”. 

Given the local remit of the Society, it is desirable that the prospective Society Chair should be resident in Hampstead (including West Hampstead), Belsized, Highgate or Hampstead Garden Suburb. The prospective Society Chair will be invited to join the general committee and ‘shadow’ the current Chair for the appropriate period before taking over.

C. Core and specific tasks of the Society Chair

Convene, set the agenda for, and chair bi-monthly meetings of the general committee, and approve the draft minutes of those meetings

Convene and set the agenda for the Society’s annual general meeting in June of each year, deliver a verbal annual report at that meeting, and approve the draft minutes of that meeting

Write the annual trustees’ report for inclusion in the annual return to the Charity Commission

Settle and approve the Society's annual financial statements as prepared by the Treasurer and the Society's auditors/examiners

Write a column of approximately 2,000 words for the Society's newsletter published in January, May and October

From time to time, as an observer, attend meetings of the Society's three subcommittees (Town, Heath and Planning) and the Society’s Plaque Selection Panel

Support the Society’s vice-chairs in their chairing of the Society’s three subcommittees (see above)

Oversee recruitment to the general committee and, as required, the Society's three subcommittees

As required, be the public or official face of the Society in dealings with the media, and the City of London Corporation (the freehold owner of Hampstead Heath and the sole trustee of the Hampstead Heath registered charity), Camden Council (including Hampstead Ward local councillors) and other local or governmental bodies

As required, lead (even if only in  a titular or nominal sense) campaigns run by the Society

Attend and, as required, host Society events, including the New Members Party, the Xmas Party and Society lectures (usually two to three a year)

Maintain relations with other non-governmental bodies with which the Society has regular dealings in matters of common interest, including the Vale of Health Society, the Highgate Society, the Hampstead Garden Suburb Residents Association, the Hampstead Neighbourhood Forum,  Heath Hands, the Kenwood Estate, Keats House, Camden History Society, the London Forum and Civic Voice

Identify, and suggest to its editor, items for inclusion in the Society's newsletter

Who we are

The Molly Huggins Foundation is a newly launched charity with a bold mission: to drive long-term, place-based investment in communities that are too often overlooked. We’re a subsidiary of Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH), with a vision to raise £75 million through fundraising, partnerships, and internal contributions by 2035.

Our work centres on homelessness prevention, youth opportunity, employment support, and community capacity building. In 2025, we’ll merge with the established MTVH Migration Foundation, bringing 15 years of grant-making experience supporting migrants and refugees, into one powerful, national platform for change.

Lady Molly Huggins founded Metropolitan in 1957 to create stable homes and strong communities. Today, her name lives on in a foundation committed to profound, lasting impact, fuelled by the lived experiences of residents and delivered in collaboration with the people who know their communities best.

About the role

As our first Chair, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of this charity at a pivotal moment. You’ll lead our Board, guide the integration of two foundations, and provide high-level oversight on finance, governance, and risk. Just as crucially, you’ll act as a visible ambassador, bringing credibility, networks, and a deep belief in our mission.

This is a voluntary role with a time commitment of approximately two days per month and a three-year term (renewable up to six years). You’ll work closely with the MTVH Executive team and stakeholders across housing, social justice, and philanthropy to help unlock the potential of communities across the UK.

Who we’re looking for

We’re seeking a values-driven, strategic leader with significant board experience—ideally as Chair or senior trustee. You’ll have:

• A strong understanding of governance and charity compliance.
• Credibility and confidence to influence at senior levels across sectors.
• A commitment to tackling inequality and advancing social justice.
• Experience in strategy, financial oversight, and partnership development.
• Knowledge of housing, community development, or migration issues is welcome, as is experience in fundraising or philanthropy at scale.

We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of social housing, migration, or community marginalisation. More than anything, we’re looking for someone with vision, integrity, and a passion for building better futures—with communities, not just for them.