Chair of trustees volunteer roles
We are seeking two new Trustees who are strongly networked in the Greater Manchester region to join our Board at a pivotal time for ENO, as we expand our presence and reimagine what opera can be in contemporary society.
Working across both London and Greater Manchester, we are creating opera at a range of scales and for a variety of contexts and audiences. We are collaborating with a diverse mix of venues, spaces, and organisations - exploring creative opportunities and building relationships with new communities and future audiences. This work is central to our ambition to develop a new model for how opera is created, shared, and experienced today.
As a registered charity, ENO is committed to ensuring that opera is available to everyone, without limits. We champion new talent, new ideas, and new audiences because we believe opera should be accessible to all—regardless of background, experience, financial means, or location.
Trustees serve as ambassadors for this work and are essential in monitoring the organisation's overall governance, financial stability, and strategic direction during this exciting period of growth.
We are currently seeking Trustees with a strong connection to the Greater Manchester region who bring experience and skills in some of the following areas:
- Audiences: communication, marketing, digital & social media, insight
- Fundraising and philanthropy
- Artistic: programming, talent development, education & learning, music (particularly opera), performance, producing
We encourage applications from people of all identities, skill levels, and backgrounds, and prior Trustee experience is not required.
English National Opera is an Equal Opportunities employer, and we strive to create an inclusive working environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve. As we work to address underrepresentation in our workforce, English National Opera particularly encourages potential candidates from underrepresented groups and communities to apply, including those from global majority backgrounds and/or with protected characteristics, including race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment and religion and belief. We will provide appropriate support for candidates with access requirements if they identify as disabled. This includes during the application process and through candidate assessment stages.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Women’s Aid in Luton
Women’s Aid in Luton supports over 800 of society’s most vulnerable women and children each year, all of whom are fleeing abuse and violence. The charity offers refuge across five safe houses in Luton, a helpline, tailored support for families, and access to legal advice, mental health services, employment, and resettlement guidance. It also prioritises prevention and early intervention through education, working closely with schools to raise awareness of domestic abuse.
The Opportunity: Chair of Trustees
Women’s Aid in Luton is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead its Board and help shape the future of the organisation. This is a pivotal leadership role with significant influence over the strategic direction and governance of the charity. The incoming Chair will guide the Board in supporting the Executive Team to sustain and grow its essential services, ensuring women and children can rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.
The current Chair will conclude her term next year, and the charity is therefore inviting expressions of interest from those who are deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector.
Candidate Profile
Experience:
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A strong understanding and commitment to the VAWG sector.
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Substantial non-executive experience.
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Knowledge of UK charity governance and experience of working with or serving on a Board of Trustees.
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A background in senior strategic leadership.
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Proven ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders.
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Sensitivity and discretion when dealing with confidential matters involving staff and service users.
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A track record of successfully leading teams or groups in either a voluntary or professional context.
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Chairing experience, ideally at Board or committee level.
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Significant experience in motivating, managing, and developing people.
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Experience in shaping and evaluating strategic plans to maximise impact.
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Sound financial acumen, including an understanding of charity finance.
Skills and Abilities:
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Inspirational leadership with the ability to foster collaboration and, when needed, make difficult decisions.
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Strong communication skills with the ability to articulate the charity’s vision and inspire others.
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Relationship-builder with the ability to form effective alliances and partnerships.
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Sound judgement and the capacity for reflective leadership.
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A supportive presence for both the Board and Executive, fostering their continued development.
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Ability to operate within the realistic capacities and constraints of a charity environment.
Personal Attributes:
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A dynamic and inclusive leadership style that inspires trust and accountability.
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A visible and unwavering commitment to the charity’s mission and strategic aims.
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Tact, diplomacy, and strong listening and engagement skills.
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Excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach.
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Well-developed networking skills that can be leveraged to support the charity’s objectives.
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A personal commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI).
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Willingness and ability to dedicate sufficient time to the role, including travel and occasional out-of-hours engagement.
Terms of Appointment
The initial term of office is three years, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term, up to a maximum of six years.
Eligibility
In accordance with the Equality Act 2010 (Schedule 9, Part 1), this role is open to female applicants only due to the nature of the services provided. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
Encouragement of Diverse Applications
Women’s Aid in Luton warmly welcomes applications from women of all backgrounds. The charity is especially keen to hear from women from Black, Asian and minoritised communities, as well as from those with lived experience of domestic abuse.
A Trustee's Perspective
“Joining Women’s Aid in Luton as a Board member has enabled me to use my professional expertise in a way that gives back to the community. I know that all the energy and time I give is helping to strengthen the organisation and ultimately the women and children it seeks to support. Joining the Board has been immensely rewarding and I highly recommend it as a valuable way to volunteer your time for a good cause.”
– Current Trustee, Women’s Aid in Luton
To Express Interest
Women who feel they can contribute to the ongoing success of Women’s Aid in Luton and are passionate about supporting survivors of domestic abuse are encouraged to get in touch. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference.
Chair of Board of Trustees
About The Connection at St Martin’s
Our vision:
We believe that no one should have to sleep rough on London’s streets, and that everyone should get the support they need to find a place to call home.
Our mission:
We support people sleeping rough to find a way off London’s streets. We get to know every person we work with, understanding what they need to recover.
Trusting relationships are at the heart of everything we do, with our clients and our colleagues. It is vital that the way we work provides the conditions to facilitate these relationships. We have agreed 4 core cultural traits which guide our day to day behaviour at The Connection. These are Curious, Safe, Together and Motivated.
About the Role
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that The Connection achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that The Connection has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision and mission.
While trustees share collective responsibility, the Chair of the Board of Trustees leads the board, ensuring it functions effectively and fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the charity.
The Chair also acts as a lead point of contact with the Chief Executive, providing line management—as well as support and challenge. In the context of the cross-site community at St Martin-in-the-Fields and externally, the Chair plays an important ambassadorial role for The Connection
The Board of Trustees at the Connection have adopted the Charity Governance Code for larger charities which sets out the principles and key elements of good governance. Trustees will support the integration of the key principles of the Code which are described under the following areas: organisational purpose; leadership; integrity; decision making, risk and control; board effectiveness; equality, diversity and inclusion; openness and accountability.
The Connection at St Martin in the Fields is a company limited by guarantee, therefore each Trustee is also a company director and must fulfil the legal and financial responsibilities required under the Company Act 2006.
Full role description can be found on our website
Closing Date: Friday 4th July
Interview Date: First round (online) – w/c 14th July. Second round (in person) – w/c 28th July.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Would you like to become a Trustee?
Each year we seek new volunteers to join our board of trustees, bringing with them the skills and experience we need to work for a better future for nature, people and the green spaces we all love across Rotherham and Sheffield.
As well as an enthusiasm and passion for our work, we are looking for people with the skills to help govern the Trust.Experience of working in a decision-making group is very helpful as well as a good local knowledge of Rotherham and/or Sheffield. You would need to be able to commit to attending our Annual General Meeting (held in October) and at least four board meetings per year, which require some preparatory work..
This year we are especially keen to hear from people:
- Have expertise in strategic HR, staff health & wellbeing support
- Commercial, business acumen, profit for purpose experience (with reference to our consultancy)
- Have a good knowledge of communities and/or natural environment in Rotherham
- Can represent more of our diverse community in Sheffield & Rotherham
To find out more have a look at the role description visit our website
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Martin Lewis' charity the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute are looking to appoint two or three trustees who bring the skills, insight and critical challenge to guide us through the next stage of our journey. The successful candidates will follow in the footsteps of two trustees who are leaving the board after multiple successive terms and will join our existing seven trustees on the board, chaired by Martin Lewis OBE and with Jo Hill as Vice Chair.
The role would require attendance at our quarterly hybrid meetings and availability from time to time to support the executive team through correspondence or ad-hoc meetings.
The position is not renumerated, however reasonable travel expenses can be claimed when attending quarterly meetings.
A comprehensive induction will be provided, and new trustees who are less familiar with charity governance will receive additional training as needed.
We are committed to further diversifying our board, and would particularly welcome applications from people from minoritised ethnic groups. We are open to this post being a development opportunity for someone who does not yet have significant board experience. If you do not have all of the skills and experience listed above, but you have a genuine commitment to the issues we work on and an ability to think critically, please do still consider applying.
We will be holding an anonymous ‘ask us anything’ webinar to learn more about the role and the organisation at 1-2pm on 26th June. Please click 'How to apply' for joining instructions.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you looking to volunteer your time and knowledge to support Age UK Oxfordshire who are seeking Trustees with specific skills to work closely as part of their Board.
Age UK Oxfordshire are an independent local charity supporting older people to maintain their independence and live life to the full, focusing most resource on reaching those older people who face a struggle, whether through low income, poor health or loneliness. They are striving for a world where every older person and unpaid carer is seen, heard, included, and valued.
Trustees play a vital role as Board members, ensuring the organisation has solid plans in place to achieve their aims and that funding is being used positively to do this. They are looking for enthusiastic individuals who will work in partnership with fellow Trustees, CEO and the Leadership team to ensure that Age UK Oxfordshire delivers on their vision, mission, and values.
Specific areas of focus for the board:
Given the needs of the charity and the skills of the current board members, they are looking for experience in HR, Governance, Adult Social Care and Lived experience is always welcomed.
They value and are actively seeking to increase diversity on their board in order to bring broader perspectives, achieve stronger community representation, inform sound decision-making, and help them serve more effectively and inclusively.
Could this be the ideal role for me?
To be considered for this role, you will require the following skills and competencies:
- Commitment to the organisation.
- Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
- Good, independent judgement.
- An understanding and knowledge of good governance.
- Able to work effectively as a member of a team.
What's in it for you
- Volunteering experience
- Interaction with leadership teams and board activity
- Working with different sets of people
- Annual strategic away day with Trustees and Leadership Team
Currently trustee meetings are held quarterly and alternate holding meetings virtually and in person in Abingdon. The meetings last about 2.5 hours. In addition, there are up to two away days a year and an AGM. Papers typically require about two hours reading per meeting.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
These unremunerated roles are open to all. To apply for these exceptional opportunities, please submit your CV and supporting statement via the Charisma website.
If you would like to have an initial discussion with Sandra Smith, Associate Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment, prior to submitting your application, please get in touch via the Charisma website.
Closing date for applications: 10th August 2025
Interview date: TBC
Active Humber trustee vacancies
Support us to encourage people across the Humber to benefit from an active lifestyle
Due to the four-year term ending for a number of our trustees, Active Humber are looking to recruit to the following Board vacancies:
- Chair of the Board
- Senior Independent Director
- Welfare and Safety Director
- Non-Executive Trustee
These are crucial roles for our Board, and we are looking for people who share our passion and energy to work with us to create a happier, healthier and stronger community across the Humber. To achieve our goals, we need a board of trustees who are as diverse as the people we are trying to reach.
Active Humber is a registered charity and is one of 42 nationwide Active Partnerships who are funded by Sport England to improve lives through physical activity and sport.
Our vision is that the Humber is a place where everyone, everyday is physically active.
Our mission is to get the most physically inactive to be active.
Our role is to help people think differently about physical inactivity.
What is it like to be a Board Member at Active Humber?
The Board at Active Humber is integral to what we are trying to achieve in the Humber. If you join us as a trustee you will help to lead Active Humber to achieve their mission and purpose - you might ask questions to challenge us to think differently, make suggestions to move things forward, or act as a sounding board for ideas.
To learn more about Active Humber and what we have achieved and what we are hoping to achieve, please explore our website.
What we’re looking for:
We’re seeking individuals who are enthusiastic about our vision and have the time and skills to contribute to the board. We are particularly looking for expertise in one or more of the following areas;
- Experience of chairing a Board
- Knowledge of Safeguarding and Welfare, in relation to Children and Young People and/or Adults at Risk
- Experience of governance matters, or legal issues
- Experience within environmental sustainability matters
- An understanding of equality and inclusivity
Application Process
Each of the vacancies has its own areas of responsibility, and there are role descriptors for each of the roles that we are advertising. We also have a recruitment pack giving more details about the expectations of being an Active Humber trustee, which is relevant to all the roles.
This information is available via our vacancies pages. Please read these documents fully to support you in making a decision about whether to apply. You should also consider which role suits your skills and experience so reading each of the role descriptions is recommended.
We would suggest an informal chat with our CEO, David Gent or our Chair, Richard Smith as the first step in your application. Please email the hr email address and we would be happy to arrange this.
If you then wish to go ahead and apply, please send the following information:
- A covering letter expressing which role you are applying for.
- Your covering letter should explain why you are interested in being an Active Humber trustee, and how your skills and experience meet the criteria set out in your preferred role and person specification.
- A copy of your current CV.
Applications should be submitted by 9th July 2025.
Interviews will be held in person at the Aura Centre on 23rd or 24th July 2025.
If you have any queries about the role or the application process, please do not hesitate to email HR who will be happy to help.
Active Humber is committed to promoting physical activity and sports across the Humber region.




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you use your leadership skills and experience to support Signals?
We’re looking for a new volunteer Chair to join the board of Trustees who is interested in helping to develop Signals.
The Chair will lead our board of nine trustees, ensuring that Signals is following correct governance and meeting its charitable duties.
By joining us you will work with an engaged, experienced and friendly board and staff team.
Signals is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all members of the community particularly from those currently under-represented on the board including Tendring residents and people from the global majority.
Who we are
Signals is a registered charity and limited liability company based in Colchester established 36 years ago. We specialise in filmmaking and digital arts for social, learning and creative outputs and work across the region but with a focus on Essex. We became an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) in 2023.
We work with children, young people, artists and community groups supporting creativity and learning at all levels. We are committed to increasing equal access to digital and creative experiences. Our vision is to positively impact peoples’ lives by encouraging, diversity, creativity, experimentation, developing skills and raising aspirations through creative digital production and education. This work is increasingly relevant in supporting those left behind in a digital age.
Current projects include working with local migrant communities, disability groups and communities in Harwich.
Chair role
- With other board members, CEO and staff, provide strategic leadership to the charity, ensuring that Signals achieves its objectives.
- Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for governance.
- Optimise the relationship between the board and Signals staff and volunteers.
- Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.
- Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for Signals.
- Appraise the performance of the CEO.
If you are interested and wish to have an informal discussion, please contact Signals Director Rachel Hipkiss.
We’re a multi-award-winning digital arts and education charity that provides courses, workshops and projects across the eastern region.




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Chair of our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibilities are providing leadership, strategic direction and governance oversight for the charity. They ensure that the board functions effectively, that the organization remains true to its mission, and that it meets its legal and ethical obligations.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4-6 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has strong leadership, facilitation and decision-making skills, excellent communication and public-speaking, understanding of financial management, fundraising and stakeholder engagement, and a passion for the Charity's mission and long-term success. You should have experience serving on a Board of Trustees (preferably as Chair), in governance, strategic planning, and the non-profit sector.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check and meet the statutory conditions for serving as a Trustee (attached). Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
We believe that no one should have to deal with grief or mental health alone: we combat isolation through creating connection.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Background
The Merchant’s House in Marlborough is a beautifully restored 17th-century silk merchant’s residence, offering a rare glimpse into the town’s rich history. Operated by The Merchant’s House Trust, our mission is to preserve and share this unique inheritance, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the community far into the future. We are dedicated to engaging visitors and locals alike through educational programmes, events, and exhibitions that celebrate Marlborough’s cultural legacy in the context of the broader national story in which it is rooted. In the words of our motto ‘local heritage, national treasure’.
Your role
The Chair of The Merchant's House Trust leads the Board of Trustees, ensuring the effective governance of the charity and supporting the Trust Manager in delivering its strategy and purpose. The role is voluntary and non-remunerated, ideal for someone passionate about local heritage and community engagement. As a small friendly team, we are looking forward to welcoming a Chair who will bring fresh eyes to our plans for the next exciting phase in the life of this very special local charity.
Become a Trustee at Sunrise Multicultural Project
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?
We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Sunrise Multicultural Project.
As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping our strategy, ensuring we stay true to our mission, and supporting the development of initiatives that promote inclusivity and integration. We are seeking individuals with a range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences – whether in community work, finance, governance, fundraising, or marketing – who share our commitment to empowering minority groups and fostering a more connected, diverse community.
If you are eager to contribute your time, expertise, and passion, we would love to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
FoBV are looking for a new Chair of Trustees. This individual will lead the board and be responsible to its members, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, and in accordance with the charity’s vision, goals and charitable purposes. while also being an ambassador for the charity.
About Us
Friends of Bennerley Viaduct (FoBV) is a community organisation based in Derbyshire formed in 2015 with the purpose of safeguarding the Bennerley Viaduct Grade II* listed structure and its surrounding environment. Since 2019, when the organisation became a CIO, it has grown thanks to funding which led to the building of full access onto the viaduct, a new visitor centre and café and the development of an activity programme encompassing both formal and informal learning.
Chair role
· Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that FoBV achieves its charitable purposes and goals.
· Work in partnership with the Board, Operations Director and team to achieve our shared objectives.
· Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.
· Optimise the relationship between the board and FOBV staff, members and volunteers.
· Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.
· Act as a spokesperson and advocate for FOBV.
What we are looking for
Essential
● Experience of being a trustee.
● A keen sense of strategic purpose.
● An inclusive leadership style.
● The ability to listen and engage effectively. You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative environment.
● Advocate - be able and willing to champion FoBV work through personal networks, social media, and other channels.
● A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
● Be responsive
In addition to the above, the Chair will have the responsibilities and qualities of all trustees:
Responsibilities of all trustees
● Support and provide advice on FoBV purpose, vision, goals and activities.
● Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
● Oversee FoBV financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress, with the support of the Trustee Treasurer.
● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
● Ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively in conjunction with the Trustee Board.
● Provide support and challenge to the Operations Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
● Keep abreast of changes in charity law and regulations as appropriate
● Attend six Board meetings a year and be adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
● Contribute to the broader promotion of FoBV charitable objects, aims and objectives by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.
Essential qualities and attributes of all trustees
● 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 and work effectively as a board member.
● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
● A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
● Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
● Willingness to lead according to our values
● Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership
Terms of appointment
Terms of office
● Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.
This is a voluntary position, but reasonable travel expenses etc. will be reimbursed
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting opportunity to influence and impact the educational experience and outcomes of children in east Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Hartlepool. At the heart of our trust is the aim to nurture, educate, achieve and transform the lives of all young people within the communities we serve across the North East.
We are a mixed Multi-Academy Trust, with eight schools (6 primary, 2 secondary) and a mix of community and Church of England schools. We are a fully inclusive, working with a range of stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and destinations for our pupils. We also have a national research school, which aims to build and strengthen networks of schools throughout the region and help them access effective education research and implement it in everyday practice.
The Chair of our Trust Board of Directors helps shape and guide our passionate volunteers and staff team through clear leadership to the trust’s Board of Directors, embedding the trust's values and culture throughout the organisation.
In addition to the general role of all Non-Executive Directors/Trustees, the role of the Chair is:
1. Strategic leadership: To ensure the board and the CEO have an effective shared purpose, vision, values and strategic priorities.
2. Leading the governance team: To ensure the board has the right people with the right skills, attributes, motivations and behaviours to work effectively as a team and hold annual 1:1 conversations with non-executive directors and Local Governing Committee Chairs.
3. Working with leaders: To ensure professional relationships with the CEO and the Chairs of the schools’ Local Governing Committees. To lead the Chairs and Vice Chairs Forum.
4. Influencing improvement and outcomes: To ensure the Board is focused on the trust’s strategic priorities and the ongoing improvement of all of its schools and outcomes for pupils.
5. Leading governance business: To work with the CEO and the Clerk to the Directors to ensure the business of the Board and its Committees is planned, managed and actioned effectively.
6. To review the trust’s management accounts on a monthly basis, taking any appropriate action to maintain financial viability.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum (NNRF) is a £1m+ community-based charity providing advice and support to individuals and families who seek asylum or live as refugees. The Forum is a key partner of Nottingham City Council, and its work spans a number of separate programmes, much of which is delivered from our building and cafe in the heart of the city.
What exactly does the Forum do?
- We believe in a future where people are treated fairly and compassionately, and where everyone has the chance to feel safe and live with dignity.
- Working in partnership with others, our focus is on helping refugees and asylum seekers to rebuild their lives and to help with their immediate needs. We do this by providing a welcoming community centre, and by offering a range of support services and programmes, including impartial advice, advocacy and signposting.
We are seeking to appoint several Trustees during 2025, each on an initial 3-year term and applications are welcome from any background. In common with many organisations in this sector, people from ethnic minority backgrounds and those with lived experience of the asylum system are underrepresented on our Board at this time. Applicants who have governance experience, for example in schools or local government, or who may be working in a legal/HR role may be of interest. However, the most important attribute is that you have the energy, time and interest necessary to support the Forum’s work. Candidates will be appointed solely on a defined selection criterion, ensuring that ethnicity plays no role in the decision-making process.
The role of our Trustees is vital to what we do and it means that you can support those seeking refuge to re-establish themselves in a new country. The Board of Trustees has the ultimate authority and responsibility for directing and governing the organisation. Being a Trustee can be a hugely rewarding experience - it offers a fantastic development opportunity, the chance to make a positive impact, to build new relationships and to gain experience in charity operations. As a Trustee you will be able to use your knowledge, skills and experience and have a direct influence over a cause you care about. You will also get free access to a range of Board-level learning resources, including articles, webinars and national networking events.
These are voluntary roles, with meetings usually set for after normal working hours. The minimum time commitment is quite modest - we have six Board meetings per year, each lasting a couple of hours, and an Annual General Meeting in November. We do actively encourage Trustees to also get involved in the work of at least one of our committees, so all of this means a commitment of no more than 1 day per month.
How can I apply?
- In the first instance, please send your CV (if you have one) and/or letter of application to our Chair of Trustees, Graham Bell, telling us about your interest in the role why you want to help us by volunteering as a Trustee. You are also welcome to send your application in the form of a short video.
- We will also be holding online events during July and September as a way of introducing our work and as an opportunity for you to ask any questions about the role. Further details will be posted on social media.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Overview of the role
The Chair of the Board of Trustees ensures that the organisation’s strategy seeks to address some of the most complex social and economic issues in London today by attracting the right partnerships and investments and ensuring that funds get to where they are needed most in the most effective, efficient and impactful manner.
The role holder ensures that this work is delivered with a strong focus on equity, diversity and inclusion and outstanding governance.
Principal Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
• Provide inspiring and inclusive leadership to the Board, helping define their strategic aims, and aligning these with its vision and values
• Lead on embedding DEI principles in Board culture and decisions, and fostering a culture of transparency, learning, collaboration, challenge, and accountability.
• Facilitate a constructive, purposeful, and productive dynamic between the Board and Executive team, supporting them in identifying and managing key organisational risks and mitigation strategies.
• Ensure the charity delivers maximum community impact through a sound strategy, strong governance, and continuous learning.
• Lead the Board in overseeing the financial resilience of the charity.
• Provide effective line management to the CEO.
Sound Governance and Compliance
• Work with the Chief Executive to shape the Board’s agenda, aligning governance with strategic priorities.
• Ensure the Board operates effectively and adheres to its legal and regulatory responsibilities and to best-practice governance principles.
• Encourage full, meaningful, and diverse participation at Board meetings and ensure Board decisions are evidence-informed, collectively owned, and implemented effectively.
• Lead on the annual appraisal of Trustees, on Board and Committee effectiveness, and on sound succession planning.
External Relations
• Act as a confident and credible representative of LCF; and support the Chief Executive in developing strategic relationships and enhancing the organisation’s profile and reputation.
• Promote external engagement and horizon scanning to identify emerging risks and opportunities for innovation.
• Engage with and listen to communities and partners across London to amplify under-represented voices.
Relationship with the Chief Executive
• Build a strong, supportive, and honest working relationship with the Chief Executive.
• Hold the Chief Executive to account for the achievement of agreed objectives and organisational health.
• Provide regular support and challenge, balancing encouragement with oversight.
• Lead the Chief Executive’s annual performance and remuneration review, with input from fellow Trustees.
Person Specification
Values and Personal Qualities
• A strong understanding of the issues facing London’s communities and commitment to their charitable objects and work.
• Deep commitment to their values, EDI focus and to lived experience and community voice.
• An inclusive leadership style, bringing people together and valuing collaboration and diversity of thought and experience.
• Credibility and authenticity to inspire confidence among a wide range of stakeholders and communities.
• Comfortable engaging with people across diverse sectors, from grassroots groups to institutional funders.
Experience
• Senior leadership experience in the voluntary, public, or private sectors.
• Experience as a trustee within a charity or similar, with experience chairing or participating in effective non-executive boards.
• Proven track record in strategy, governance, and impact-led decision-making.
• Proven experience representing an organisation publicly and engaging stakeholders.
Knowledge and Skills
• Understanding of the community foundation and philanthropic landscape.
• Strong working knowledge of charity governance and the regulatory duties of trustees, with the ability to promote and model good governance practice.
• Strong financial literacy.
Term
The Chair will serve a three-year term, renewable for up to two additional terms (maximum of nine years).
Remuneration
The role of Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although expenses for travel may be claimed.
Time Commitment
The Chair role requires an estimated commitment of 15–18 days per year. This includes preparing for and attending four Board meetings annually, each held at their London office; participating in occasional extraordinary or quarterly sub-committee meetings; holding regular meetings with the Chief Executive; and representing the Foundation at key events or external engagements.
You may also have experience in the following roles: Board Chair, Non-Executive Director, Trustee Chair, Board Director, Chief Executive, Managing Director, Senior Director, Executive Director, Non-Executive Chair, etc.
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