Chair and trustees volunteer roles

Join CARAS as Co-Chair of Trustees
Are you passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive environment for refugees and asylum seekers?
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is seeking a Co-Chair to join our Board of Trustees, working alongside our current Co-Chair, who has been in the role for two years and has served on the Board for nine years. Our outgoing Co-Chair will remain as a trustee, ensuring strong continuity.

About CARAS
CARAS works with people from refugee backgrounds to provide practical, educational, and social support. We build relationships, networks, and spaces that enable individuals to access what they need to improve wellbeing and safety. Our dedicated staff and volunteers offer a wide range of activities and services, creating a place of welcome and helping people recognise their skills and develop their potential.

As one of the largest providers of refugee support in South London—particularly for unaccompanied and separated children—we are proud of our agility in responding to changing needs.

The Role of Co-Chair

• Provide strategic leadership to CARAS and the Board, ensuring our mission is achieved.

• Work in partnership with the CEO, staff, and volunteers.

• Lead the Board in fulfilling its governance responsibilities.

• Strengthen the relationship between the trustees and CARAS’s team.

• Plan and chair Board meetings and the AGM (with others as appropriate).

What We’re Looking For

• Experience as a trustee (chairing experience is not essential).

• A strong sense of strategic purpose.

• Inclusive leadership skills that inspire equal participation.

• Excellent listening and engagement skills, with the ability to encourage healthy debate in a collaborative environment.

• Advocacy skills and willingness to champion CARAS’s work through personal and professional networks.

• A firm commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

• Flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of a growing charity.

We especially welcome applications from people with lived experience of the UK asylum or immigration system, people of colour, disabled people, and LGBTQI+ people.

Time Commitment

• Four evening Board meetings per year (alternating between online and at our Tooting office).

• One away day annually (usually on a weekend).

• Membership of working groups.

• Regular meetings with the Co-Chair, CEO, and other trustees.

• Occasional attendance at activities (daytime, evenings, or weekends).

How to Apply
You can also request a conversation with our current Co-Chairs, Helen Gribble and Keith McGuinness, for more information.

Closing Date 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; we encourage early submissions.

We are looking to appoint a trustee with experience in Finance to oversee our finance functions, providing advice, scrutiny and support to the charity and to be the Chair of our Governance, Audit & Risk Committee (GAR)

Knowledge & Experience:

• Qualified accountant with demonstrated commercial awareness and knowledge and thorough understanding of the Charities SORP (statement of recommended practice)
• Knowledge and experience of charity fundraising and finance practices
• Ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the Board and stakeholders
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Dedicated to the organisation’s cause and objectives

The Governance, Audit & Risk Committee (GAR) Purpose & Duties:

The Governance, Audit and Risk Committee is a Sub-Committee of the Board of Trustees of the 1851 Marine Trust (the “Trust”). The Committee shall meet not less than 4 times a year and at such other times as it considers necessary.

The Committee shall provide support, assurance and recommendations to the Board on:

• Best practice in charity governance and as appropriate governance arrangements for the Trust
• The effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control and risk management framework, including key policies and procedures
• The conduct of the external independent examination or audit and the Trust’s annual report and accounts, including the performance of the independent examiners’
• The day-to-day financial operations and controls including monitoring income and expenditure against the annual budget

Trustee - Role and Responsibilities

As a Trustee your role will be to use your skills and your personal experience to contribute to the work of the Board. Trustee responsibilities will include the following:

Leadership:

Promote the vision, values and objectives of the 1851 Marine Trust and take an active role in supporting the Trust’s strategy. Assist fellow Trustees in agreeing strategic aims, ensuring that the necessary financial and human resources are in place to meet its objectives, and that performance is effectively monitored and reviewed. Engage positively and collaboratively in Board discussion of agenda items.

Management:

In accordance with agreed Board procedures, monitor the performance of the Trust, identify and manage risks posed by its activities and assist in the satisfaction of statutory duties around the preparation of annual reports and accounts, fundraising and safeguarding. Provide independent judgement and advice on issues of strategy, vision, performance, resources and standards of conduct and apply this to the benefit of the organisation, its stakeholders and wider community. Participate in committees as determined and delegated by the Board of Trustees.

Governance:

Commit to working to, and encouraging within the Trust, the highest standards of probity, integrity and governance and contribute to ensuring that the internal governance arrangements, including the management of conflicts of interest, conform with the Trust’s constitution, best practice and statutory requirements. Obtain assurance that financial information is accurate and that financial controls and risk management systems are robust and appropriate.

Requirements for new Trustees:

Able to attend 4-6 meetings a year with sufficient time to review meeting papers. The time commitment is estimated at a minimum 20 hours per year but could increase depending on the outcome of agenda items and related sub-committee work. Documents are sent to Trustees by email and meetings are held both electronically and in person.

Trustees/Board members are not paid, though reasonable expenses are claimable. Initial term of office is for three years. 

Organisation: Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau
Location: Glasgow (hybrid with some in-person commitments)
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month

Charity Recruit is proud to be partnering with Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau (GNWCAB) to appoint a new Chair to lead its experienced and committed Board.

GNWCAB is an independent charity providing free, impartial and confidential advice to people across the North West of Glasgow. The Bureau supports thousands of people each year on matters ranging from debt and welfare rights to housing, employment and immigration. Their impact is local, but their reach connects directly with the wider Citizens Advice Scotland network and its national campaigns.

Following a period of growth and strategic development, GNWCAB is now preparing for a major premises change and the next chapter of its delivery. The incoming Chair will provide thoughtful and engaged leadership during this transition, ensuring robust governance and helping to shape the future of this essential frontline service.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about social justice and empowering communities. You’ll bring a strong track record of organisational leadership, an understanding of charity governance and a collaborative, inclusive approach to working with fellow Trustees and the senior leadership team.

Experience chairing Boards or Committees is welcome, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to listen, lead with clarity, and provide strategic oversight through a period of change.

GNWCAB is proud of the diversity of its community and welcomes applications from individuals from all backgrounds. Local insight or lived experience of the issues GNWCAB tackles would be especially valued.

To support a smooth transition, a full induction period is planned where the incoming Chair will serve as a Trustee and shadow the current Chair until autumn 2025.

To apply
Please click the Apply button to be redirected to Charity Recruit where you’ll find details of how to express your interest. If you’d prefer an informal conversation first, we’d love to hear from you.

About Charity Recruit
We specialise in leadership recruitment for the charity and not-for-profit sector. Whether you’re looking for your next meaningful role or hiring a values-driven leader, we understand the challenges and opportunities unique to this space. Our approach is thoughtful, tailored and rooted in a genuine commitment to the sector’s impact. 

Are you passionate about making a tangible difference in the world? Do you have proven fundraising and leadership skills that you’d like to apply to a cause with real impact? We are seeking a new trustee to join our Board and play a vital role in shaping our future.

As a growing international development charity with a small but committed staff team (1.2 FTE in the UK, 10+ in East Africa), we are looking for trustees who are not only strategic thinkers but also prepared to roll up their sleeves and contribute actively within the boundaries of their role. We are especially keen to hear from individuals with experience in:

• Developing and delivering fundraising strategies
• Building individual giving programmes
• Creating and sustaining corporate partnerships

In this recruitment round, we are specifically seeking someone to Chair our Fundraising Sub-Committee, providing leadership and guidance to help us diversify and strengthen our income.

We are currently recruiting for new Trustees to join Stepping Stones, a fantastic member led organisation who provide a range of mental health support services to people in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland, who have mild to moderate mental health conditions.  The role of a Trustee is one where the Board have responsibility and overall governance of the organisation. Being a Trustee requires commitment and engagement. It is a wonderful opportunity to use your skills and experience to help shape the organisation, support people, and contribute to our strategies.

We are particularly interested in welcoming Stepping Stones service members, or those from a relevant charity or mental health background, and young people, onto our Board to help us with fresh perspectives and energy into our planning. If you have no previous Board experience, that's okay as training is provided, we have a mix of skills, experiences and perspectives. Becoming a Trustee can offer a rewarding personal and professional development experience.

Trustees meet every 6 weeks for Board meetings, they also attend the AGM and charity events and training. Whilst the preference of the Board is to meet in person, there is flexibility to attend virtual meetings when required.

Please have a look at our website to read our Trustee Recruitment pack, you can gather an overview of who we are, the impact our work has, and the role available. 

If you are inspired to apply for a Trustee role with Stepping Stones,  your first step is  to make an Informal enquiry, please do reach out by calling on the telephone (number avialable on our website)

If formally applying please send a letter of interest, along with your CV  (Optional) via Email (adress on website)

Or

Post: Stepping Stones, Ground Floor, Social Economy Centre, 63 Kilbowie Road, Clydebank, G81 1BL

Closing date October 10th

Trustee vacancies will be advertised in line with our equality, diversity and inclusion recruitment policies. Any successful applications will be contacted for an interview by the Board. All applications from Service Members will receive feedback. Thank you for your interest in wishing to join us, we look forward to hearing from you. 

Trustees are Volunteers, this is an unpaid role, but reasonable travel costs or expenses are paid.

Who we are

At Foundations, we believe all children deserve strong and supportive relationships to help them thrive.

We’re the What Works Centre for Children & Families, focused on generating high-quality evidence about what helps families. We research, evaluate and share what works in family support, so services can improve and children can stay safe, well and happy at home.

Our work gives decision makers across the country the tools they need to improve how services are designed and delivered — ensuring the right actions are taken at the right time, for the greatest possible impact.

We’re values-led and long-term in our thinking. We focus deeply in five areas where we know we can make a difference: supporting parenting, strengthening family networks, domestic abuse, care-experienced children’s relationships, and service and practice models.

About the role

We’re looking for two new Trustees to join our experienced and committed Board.

Trustees work closely with our Chief Executive to shape Foundations’ direction and ensure we remain a high-impact organisation. This includes contributing to strategy, overseeing our financial health and helping us stay grounded in the needs of children and families.

Each Trustee brings their own strengths, challenge and support. We’re thoughtful, motivated and ambitious about creating real change.

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for:

• A qualified finance professional with charity experience who can also chair our Finance, Audit and Risk Committee.
• A children’s services leader with a strong grasp of early intervention and social care, ideally with senior experience in local government.

Just as important is your belief in our mission, your commitment to equity and inclusion, and your willingness to ask difficult questions, listen closely and work collaboratively.

We actively encourage applications from people who bring different perspectives, backgrounds and lived experience.

Expectations for Trustees:

• Around one day per month, including quarterly Board meetings and an annual away day.
• Involvement in at least one subcommittee (our Finance Trustee will chair theirs).
• Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, with the option to renew once (up to six years total).

Let’s work together to improve life for vulnerable children and families, for good.

About 1st Place
1st Place was established in 2005 as part of the Aylesbury Sure Start Programme, shaped by the vision of local children and parents. It was created to be a welcoming and supportive space where families come first—where parents could access the support they need, professionals could collaborate, and services could evolve to better serve the local community.

Families remain at the core of everything 1st Place does today.

The Opportunity
1st Place Children and Parents’ Centre is a respected Family Hub and provider of early years education. Through outreach, nursery provision, and a range of family-focused projects—particularly for children under five—the organisation delivers high-quality, consistent services to the local community.

The Board of Trustees is seeking a new Honorary Treasurer to succeed the outgoing postholder. The Treasurer chairs the Finance & General Purposes Sub-Committee and holds responsibility, on behalf of the Board, for overseeing budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements. The role also ensures that appropriate financial controls and procedures are in place.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of the voluntary sector, charity governance, finance, and risk management. Strategic thinking, effective communication with trustees and senior managers, and leadership experience are essential. A commitment to dedicating time and energy to the organisation’s mission is vital.

Closing Date:

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and applications will be reviewed as they are received.

The Role:

We are currently seeking a Finance Trustee to join our Board as Treasurer. It’s a voluntary role that requires a committed individual with financial expertise to take a collaborative approach, supporting our Trustees, our Head of Finance and Governance, and our management team to oversee the financial affairs of our charity and ensure that they are legal, constitutional, and within accepted accounting practice.

Our Organisation:

Greener and Cleaner delivers locally but thinks, and influences, nationally. Our vision is greener, healthier, better connected communities across the UK. We seek to achieve this through normalising 360-degree sustainable living, bringing the community together to make changes that can deliver a big impact. We have a non-judgemental peer-to-peer approach, so that all elements of the community feel empowered to take action in how they live, work, and play and in how they use their voice to push for change.

Treasurer Role:

The primary role is to ensure alongside other Trustees that they accept ultimate responsibility for the affairs of G&C and ensure that it is solvent, well run, and delivering the charitable outcomes for which it has been set up. As well as fulfilling the duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer ensures that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls, and procedures are put in place and reports to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.

• Overseeing the presentation of budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements, as produced by the finance team or others where appropriate, to the Board of Trustees
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place. 
• Liaising with any paid staff about financial matters, as appropriate.
• Ensuring that robust and comprehensive financial policies are in place and being implemented, and supporting the development of policies covering financial reserves, and cost management. 
• Overseeing financial controls and adherence to systems. 
• Drawing any major financial concerns to the attention of the trustee and the management team.
• Ensuring that the charity has appropriate reserves in line with its reserves policy, and monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity. 
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, including overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy and that investments and assets are maximised.
• Leading on the appointment of and liaison with external auditors. 
• Overseeing the development and implementation of systems for appraising, mitigating, and reporting corporate risk. 
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by relevant statutory bodies – for example, the Charity Commission and/or the Registrar of Companies.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Supporting other Trustees in understanding the charity’s financial position and decision making.
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the charity and its ethical fundraising policy.
• Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the Annual General Meeting and drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way.

The Person We’re Looking For:

• A finance professional with a firm understanding of charity finance and some experience of fundraising and pension schemes.
• Knowledge of charity fundraising, bid writing, and/or other income generation and/or securing funding through creation or leveraging of partnerships and networks (at a national or local level).
• A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity and the skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
• Clear communicator with the ability to explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders.
• Willing to play an active role in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, and liaising with auditors.

In addition, the Treasurer will also have the responsibilities and qualities of all Trustees.

Responsibilities of All Trustees:

• Demonstrating a commitment to G&C’s objectives
• Contributing to setting the strategic goals and monitoring performance by active participation in Board discussions and decision-making
• Actively assisting the charity to build their connections and partnerships for the purposes of most effectively delivering their goals and fundraising
• Ensuring that G&C complies with its governing documents, the law, and all other relevant documentation
• Helping to identify risks and ensuring appropriate controls are in place
• Helping the Board to make sound decisions by making available their own personal knowledge and experience
• Assisting the Chair to appoint and appraise the performance of the Senior Leadership Team members
• Sharing relevant skills and expertise with the Senior Leadership Team members
• Making all reasonable efforts to attend Board meetings, away days, development meetings, publicity events, and other such public functions as requested by the Chair
• Ensuring the charity’s focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion remains at the heart of its strategy and delivery

Trustee Person Specification:

In addition to the Treasurer role specific above, our Trustees will ideally also demonstrate the following:

• A commitment to the objectives and activities of G&C
• A willingness to devote time and effort to G&C beyond attending board meetings
• Have strategic vision, an ability to think creatively, and an appropriate level of financial literacy
• Understanding of and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of their position
• Have good independent judgement
• Be willing to effectively act as part of a team
• Adhere to the Nolan Principles of public office: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership
• A willingness to allow the Employee/s to make reasonable decisions and to act within the limits prescribed by the Board

To Apply:

To see the full job advertisement with details on how to apply, and to learn more about the role and our organisation, please see the attached supporting documents.

Are you a finance whizz looking for a rewarding trustee role? We have an amazing opportunity to be a Treasurer for our board, where you’ll have oversight of all financial aspects of the charity and advise the board accordingly. You’ll also be a proactive board member who shares our vision and values, and works with us to shape the charity’s direction. We look forward to hearing from you!

This role can be undertaken remotely for the most part, with quarterly in-person board meetings in London. 

Please apply via the brief application form on our website.

The main tasks you'll be required to undertake:

• Oversight budgeting, forecasting and reporting both internally to the Board of Trustees as well as reporting of the annual accounts
   
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly invested and economically spent
   
• Review of internal financial control environment ensuring continuous improvement and timely follow up of any actions
   
• Contributing to the strategic plan and advising on financial implications, and monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity
   
• Being a dedicated and proactive trustee of the charity, making meaningful contributions to meetings and discussions, and leading ad hoc pieces of work as required

Volunteer Trustee English Language Teaching Experience – International House London

Job Description 

Trustee - International House London (English Language Teaching (ELT) background preferred) 

International House Trust Ltd (trading as International House London, IH London), a registered UK charity is seeking passionate and dedicated new Trustee to join their Board and help drive the mission of delivering high-quality language and communication training that unlocks human potential. As a global leader in language teaching, teacher training, and trainer development, IH London is committed to creating meaningful change in the world by fostering effective communication. 

 We are particularly committed to creating an inclusive environment and are actively seeking applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women and individuals from underrepresented communities, to ensure that our Board truly reflects the communities we serve. Your unique perspective and expertise will help us expand our impact and create lasting change. 

Vision: Do you want to be part of an ambitious, forward-thinking organization that brings people together and acts as a force for positive change? If so, we want to hear from you! 

Specific Expertise: We are actively seeking for candidates with specific expertise and experience in English Language Teaching (ELT) to offer strategic oversight on language training programs. 

Location: Remote 

Report to: Chair of Board of Trustees 

Time commitment: Quarterly Board and Committee Meetings (normally remote), ad hoc issues etc. 

Remuneration: This is an unpaid voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed 

Responsibilities: As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future direction of IH London. 

 Key responsibilities include: 

• Contributing to the strategic and long-term direction of IH London 

• Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and aligning resources with objectives 

• Protecting and promoting the reputation of IH London and acting in the best interests of the charity 

• Ensuring financial stability, sustainability, and effective risk management 

Person Specification: 

We are looking for candidates who can bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to provide oversight at a senior level to join our strong and committed Trustee Board including: 

Essential 

• A strong track record in education, with clear evidence of career progression including teaching experience and holding a senior position of responsibility. 

• Proven leadership skills. You will display a record of leadership and a proven track record of working at strategic and senior levels, with an ability to provide sound governance and oversight alongside objective, independent judgment. 

• Communication skills. Demonstrable effective written and oral communication skills, the ability to influence others and to advocate on behalf of IH London. 

• Strategic thinking ability. You will demonstrate a proven ability to think strategically, analyse complex concepts and actively contribute to the strategic direction setting of IH London, both over the long and short term. 

Desirable 

• Extensive experience in English Language Teaching (ELT), both in the UK and internationally. 

• Demonstrated engagement with wider industry bodies and professional networks. 

• A history of sharing expertise and knowledge with colleagues and peers. 

• Experience of working within a commercial education environment. 

• Awareness of recent developments and innovations in learning technologies. 

Application process 

If you are interested in joining the Board of one of the world’s most respected English Language educational brands, please submit a CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest in the role and how your skills can contribute to our success. 

Applications should be sent by 5pm 16 October 2025 

The selection process for shortlisted candidates will include an online conversation with the Chief Executive and a meeting with a group of Trustees. 

Chair of the Board of Home-Start Berkshire East

Are you our new Chair of the Board?

Can you lead a charity that supports parents of young children in east Berkshire?

Home-Start in Berkshire East is an empowering, visionary, family support service built on trusted relationships and rooted in the community. We are a local charity, also part of the national Home-Start network of 180 groups. Our Board of trustees is fully responsible for governing our independent organisation, which focuses support to parents with young children, through a range of volunteer and employee-supported services, primarily in the east of Berkshire.

With a turnover of £300k+ in 2024/25, we’re a medium-sized charity, with 14 paid staff and over 30 regular volunteers, offering over 3,000 volunteer hours to more than 300 families per year.

We are looking for a new Chair for our Board of Trustees, as we continue to grow after our recent merger, and as our current Chair reaches the end of her Term of Office. You’ll have a leadership background and an understanding of (charity or corporate) governance. It is vital that you are able to lead cooperatively and work with other Trustees, the CEO, our employee and volunteer team, to shape our vision and strategy. Whilst we’d appreciate some experience within the charity sector, as either a trustee, volunteer or employee, that is not absolutely vital  – we don’t want to preclude appropriate experience from other sectors that clearly fits our current and future needs.

This is a high-profile appointment, with strong commitment to the future of families and children, and an appreciation of Home-Start’s work both important.

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for fresh expertise and experience, wanting to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the word, and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups.

The focus of a trustee is strategic, and our Chair will not be expected to get involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis; however, regular contact and liaison with other trustees and our CEO is expected.  

We ask for at least eight hours per month, rising up to sixteen hours per month at times of year-end and the AGM, plus other occasional promotional & celebratory events. You will need good access to digital communications, as much of our charity’s business is run that way.

How to apply  

This appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer a no-obligation discussion. A detailed Chair’s Recruitment Information Pack can be made available to you upon request.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references, to completion of an online Safeguarding course and an Enhanced DBS check. 

Your CV and Supporting Statement will be read by our existing trustees; an informal discussion, followed by a more-formal interview can be arranged as soon as mutually convenient 

I need to know more 

Contact Mike Allen via Apply Now below for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams/Zoom), explanation about this important role and any assistance in your application.

Who They Are

Care Rights UK is a national charity dedicated to championing the rights of people in care. For over 30 years, the organisation has provided information, advice, and support to empower individuals using care services, as well as the relatives and friends who support them.

As a community of families and experts, Care Rights UK campaigns for better lives for people in care. The charity identifies poor practice, highlights examples of good care, and advocates for a stronger, fairer care system.

The Role

Care Rights UK is entering an exciting phase of growth and is seeking to diversify and expand its reach across the UK. To support this next chapter, the organisation is looking to appoint a new trustee to join its established and welcoming Board of Trustees.

The Board plays a vital role in the strategic oversight of the charity, working alongside a small but dedicated staff team led by an experienced CEO. Trustees help guide the organisation’s work, ensuring it continues to provide the national advice line for older people needing care and to campaign effectively for systemic change.

Despite its modest size, Care Rights UK is recognised as a leading voice in the sector, “punching above its weight” through its influence, advocacy, and impact.

Who They Are Looking For

Care Rights UK welcomes applications from people with a positive, can-do attitude and a passion for promoting the rights of older people. The charity is particularly interested in individuals with knowledge or experience of:

• Advice and support services

• Legal expertise

• First-hand experience of care services

These perspectives are highly valued, but applications are welcomed from anyone with an interest in adult social care. Previous trustee experience is not required. Training, induction, and tailored support will be provided to ensure new trustees feel confident in their role.

Commitment to Diversity

Care Rights UK is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Applications are encouraged from people of all backgrounds, including those underrepresented on the Board: individuals from minoritised ethnic communities, women, and LGBTQ+ communities. The charity particularly values lived experience of care and seeks to ensure its leadership reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.

What Trustees Can Expect

• Friendly, supportive colleagues on both the Board and staff team

• Clear, jargon-free Board papers provided in a timely manner

• One-to-one support from the Chair and regular reviews of Board operations

• Peer support, including a buddy scheme

• A comprehensive induction to the charity, its work and mission

• Training to equip trustees for their role

• Practical support from staff, including help with logistics such as travel

• Opportunities to share knowledge and skills with sector experts

• The chance to be part of a dynamic team driving real change in the care sector

Global Canopy is a data-driven not for profit delivering real transparency and accountability for market impacts on nature and people. Our special focus is on ending deforestation – an essential step in achieving urgent global goals on climate, nature and human rights.

We deliver our work via three main strategies:

1. on open data (including via major global data platforms like Trase, Forest 500, Forest IQ, and ENCORE);
2. on creating stronger voluntary and compliance frameworks to address nature loss (we are a founding partner of the TNFD);and on accelerating accountability and action by the finance sector towards deforestation-free portfolios.

Global Canopy Initiatives (GCI) is a new Social Enterprise subsidiary wholly owned by Global Canopy.

The purpose of the social enterprise is to create sustainable revenues for open data on nature – a critical challenge for nonprofits working in this space. Done right, this will help safeguard the availability of open data for all as more commercial incumbents enter this space, will drive uptake by the market and identify where gaps remain, and will help ensure the sustainability of our vital offering. 

GCI ultimately aims to maximize the impact and uptake of our work to tackle market-driven impacts on nature, forests and people. Any profits from these activities are invested back into the charity.

Forest IQ Pro

Forest IQ is an open data partnership and platform that brings together aligned, best-in-class, and actionable data on how more than 2,400 major companies are addressing their links to deforestation.

Forest IQ Pro is a paid-for tier, specially designed for financial institutions to help enable their transition to deforestation-free financial portfolios. Offered through GCI, it includes access to licensed data, financial identifiers (ISINs), a bespoke API, and priority technical and customer support.

The role: overview

This is an exciting time to be joining the Board of Global Canopy Initiatives. As Chair of the Board you will be a key leader for the organisation, responsible for guiding the Board of Directors in governance, strategy, and oversight.

You will ensure that Global Canopy Initiatives fulfils its mission effectively, flourishes commercially, and fosters strong relationships with key stakeholders – from major financial institutions that are our customers, to data and ESG service providers that are our partners, to the trustees of the parent charity Global Canopy. 

This is an opportunity for a passionate and experienced leader to drive environmental innovation and impact at a high level – while helping to tackle a key challenge for the future: how to ensure the sustainability of high-quality open data provided by the non-profit sector.

We ask for a minimum commitment of 2 days per month for GCI, including board meetings and strategic engagements. There are opportunities to go above and beyond this minimum for those that wish.

The Chair of the Board is a voluntary, and therefore unpaid, position, with all expenses covered. The Chair is typically appointed for an initial term of three years, with the possibility of renewal subject to board approval.

As Chair of GCI, you will contribute to our wider organisational culture of kindness, collaboration, rigour and accountability in equal measure. You will come to this work with a sense of urgent mission, but one balanced by emotional intelligence. You will share our conviction that it is not just what we do that matters in our working life, but how we do it too.

The role: responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction.

• Facilitate and preside over board meetings, setting agendas in collaboration with key stakeholders in GCI and GC.

• Support our ongoing and agile strategy development in a fast-changing market

• Serve as a key ambassador for the company (and its parent charity), opening doors and representing it to key audiences including customers, technology partners, policymakers and donors.

• Ensure financial oversight, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Foster a strong, collaborative relationship between the Board and GCI Leadership Team.

• Recruit, mentor, and support board members to enhance board effectiveness.

• Uphold and model our organisational values, while fostering a culture of operational excellence and ambition in fulfilling our mission.

About you

To be successful in this role, these are the things that will matter the most: 

• Your will have DEEP KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE in finance sector environmental due diligence and reporting, and the data needed to deliver on requirements.
• You will be a SEASONED LEADER, with experience at C-level or board level, able to work to effectively govern the work of GCI – a startup in the non-profit sector, but one that builds on the strong foundations, intelligence and networks of its parent charity.
• You will be MISSION DRIVEN with a strong commitment to tackling the climate and nature crisis, including via market action and reform.
• You will be well NETWORKED with links to relevant people in relevant sectors and disciplines, with an emphasis on finance sector sustainability and data.
• You will be AGILE and ENTREPRENEURIAL in your approach.
• You will bring EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE to how you approach leadership and teamwork, valuing the importance not just of what we do at work, but how we do it too.

How to Apply: 

To apply for the position, please follow the links below and submit an up-to date CV and covering letter.

The covering letter should explain your motivation for the role, and how your skills and experience fit the person specification. (Please no more than 1 side of A4). 

All candidates are asked to complete an anonymous diversity monitoring form when they apply.

The closing date for applications is 29 September 2025 at 9am BST. Early application is encouraged; we may close applications early if suitable candidates are identified. Screening calls are provisionally planned for w/c 6 October, and will be conducted remotely via a video call.

At Global Canopy, we value diversity and inclusion. You can read our diversity statement on our website. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are committed to having a team with a diverse set of skills, experiences and abilities.

Global Canopy works on issues of global deforestation. We are particularly interested in strengthening our team to include those with a background from forest regions such as Latin America and South East Asia. We would welcome applications from people from these regions.

We are seeking new Trustees to help guide our next chapter. We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in fundraising, finance, property, charity management, or with lived experience that reflects the voices of our members. We also warmly welcome applications from younger people, those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, and people with disabilities, who are currently under-represented on our Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills and insights to strengthen a much-loved community charity and shape its future.

1. About Katherine Low Settlement
Katherine Low Settlement is a much-loved, busy charity that has been at the heart of the
community in Battersea, South West London, since 1924. Our recent-released
documentary, The Heart of Battersea – 100 Years of Katherine Low Settlement, brings our
century of work to life through the voices of members, staff and volunteers.
We support local older people and children, young people and their families from
sanctuary-seeking backgrounds. With an annual turnover of around £1m, our small team
of 32 mostly part-time staff, along with over 120 volunteers run a range of our own
community services. We campaign for social change and we support other charities and
communities to thrive. Our building is used for community activities and events by
over 500 people a week, and our rooms are available for hire at affordable rates. KLS is
funded from supporters, trusts and foundations which enable us to achieve our goal to
reduce poverty and isolation and bring Battersea together.
The Settlement is situated on Orville Street and Battersea High Street and aims to serve
the communities of SW11 and SW8, which includes areas of significant deprivation
alongside some of the most prosperous neighbourhoods in the country. Its vision is to
bring people together, to discover a common humanity in the process and to work together
for some of the most vulnerable people in London.

2. The Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is the legal guardian of Katherine Low Settlement to ensure that
KLS complies with its governing document (Memorandum and Articles of Association),
charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for directing the Settlement’s strategy and vision, for
overseeing the work of its Chief Executive and Staff, and for settling policy, administering
its finance and offering advice and support in the delivery of services. The board is
currently made up of seven serving members, and has vacancies for up to three new
Trustees, to a maximum of ten. Trustees are appointed by the Annual General Meeting for
a period of three years, renewable by mutual agreement.
Gaps we’re looking to fill
The Trustees have identified gaps in its membership in terms of experience of fundraising,
finance, property, charity management and the voice of Settlement members. The board
also recognises that it lacks diversity and lived experience, particularly in representation by
UKME/Global Majority Heritage people, younger people and those with disabilities. Most of
all we are looking for willing and able trustees who are aligned with our vision, mission and
values and who are committed to this local community of Battersea.

3. Key Responsibilities of Trustees
Trustees are expected to:
▪ Formulate and review regularly the strategic aims of the Settlement in accordance with
its legal objects, and to ensure the policy and practices of the Settlement are in keeping
with its aims.
▪ Monitor the performance of the charity against the agreed strategic aims.
▪ Ensure that the Settlement functions within the legal and regulatory requirements of a
charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.
▪ Act as guardians of the charity’s assets, tangible and intangible, taking all due care
over their security, deployment and proper application.
Within that broad responsibility, shared among the Trustees, the main tasks and
accountabilities include:
a) Formulating and reviewing strategic aims
▪ Ensure the Settlement has a clear vision, mission and strategic plan, and that there is a
common understanding of these by Trustees and management.
▪ Work with management to formulate the business, operational and other plans
necessary to support the vision, mission and strategic objectives.
▪ Agree and review the Chief Executive’s annual and longer-term objectives, to ensure
that these support the vision, mission and strategic priorities.
▪ Agree policies which support the vision, mission and strategic priorities of the
Settlement, and monitor their implementation.
▪ Follow best practice as recommended by the Charity Commission.
b) Monitoring Performance
▪ Appoint the Chief Executive and ensure there is appropriate investment in their
professional development.
▪ Agree the method for measuring objectively the progress of the Settlement in relation
to its vision, mission and strategic priorities, business plans and annual targets, and to
receive regular reports from the Chief Executive and senior staff on the performance of
the Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the views of members on the Settlement’s performance are regularly
gathered and considered by the Board.
▪ Hold the Chief Executive to account for the management and administration of the
Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the Chief Executive receives regular, constructive feedback on their
performance in managing the Settlement and in meeting annual and longer term goals.
c) Legal and Regulatory Compliance
▪ Ensure that the Settlement complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
▪ Has a sound grasp and awareness of its duty of care in safeguarding and that policy
and practice are aligned to make the Settlement a safe place for members, especially
children and vulnerable adults.
▪ Understand the rules and constitution that govern the Settlement, and to review the
effectiveness of such rules and constitution periodically.
▪ Agree the levels of delegated authority, whether to the Chief Executive, the Chair, ViceChair and Treasurer of the Board, or to other groups or individuals.
d) Guardians of the Settlement’s Assets
▪ Ensure that the Settlement has satisfactory control systems and procedures for holding
in trust for the beneficiaries all monies, property and other assets.
▪ Ensure that monies which are invested on behalf of the Settlement are well-managed,
within the constraints of the law and ethical and other policies laid down by the Board.
▪ Ensure that the major strategic and operational risks to which the Settlement is
exposed are reviewed annually and that systems have been established to mitigate
these risks.
▪ Ensure that the income and property of the Settlement are applied for the purposes set
out by law and for no other purpose, and with complete fairness between people who
are eligible to benefit.
▪ Ensure that intangible assets such as organisational knowledge and expertise,
intellectual property and the Settlement’s good name and reputation are properly
safeguarded.
e) Promotion of the Settlement and Engagement with Stakeholders
▪ Be prepared to act as an ambassador for the Settlement when asked to by the Chief
Executive or Chair of Trustees, and to work within an agreed brief.
▪ Attend events as an ambassador for the Settlement, to network and promote the work
of the Settlement.
▪ Seek at all times to raise awareness of the work of the Settlement to potential
beneficiaries.
▪ Assist with fundraising and awareness-raising through appropriate speaking and
networking events, with support and training as appropriate.
4. Recruiting Trustees with particular experiences
As part of a regular process of self-audit, the Trustees have identified a particular need to
recruit Trustees with experience of:
▪ Fundraising – from the perspective of either charitable trusts or high net worth
individuals or both, to help maximise our chances of success in fundraising activities
▪ Finance – to be a second finance Trustee, in addition to the Treasurer
▪ Property and general management – to help us to maintain, refurbish and develop
plans for our historic building
▪ Charity experience – to bring knowledge of financial and operational management in
that sector
▪ Lived experience - Ensuring the perspective of volunteers, members and alumni is
represented in decision making
Although the Board is very effective, it lacks significant diversity, which diminishes its
capacity to be even more effective. The Trustees would therefore particularly welcome
interest from those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, younger people and
people with disabilities, all of which are under-represented on the Board.

5. Person Specification
Expressions of interest are invited, in writing, with examples of experience in these areas :

Essential Experience & Skills

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Ability to contribute to the strategic vision and direction of KLS
• Ability to work as an active and vocal part of the Trustee board
• Effective communicator – both verbal and written 
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries 
• Committed to KLS’s mission, vision and values and its work 
• Knowledge of Battersea / Wandsworth

No prior experience is needed. Full training and support will be given.

6. Further Information

• Katherine Low Settlement is committed to equal opportunities.
•  All offers to volunteer at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to two satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS may ask for an enhanced DBS check.
• You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team.
•  An induction is given. This includes sharing KLS policies and procedures relevant to each post.