Chief executive officer volunteer roles in ,
The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.
In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.
As well as the responsibilities of being a trustee, which the Treasurer shares with all the Board members, the Treasurer is expected to be the financial expert on the Board, and to provide advice on all financial matters. Their role is to ensure the Board fulfils its duties to ensure the sound financial health of SMK, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability and sustainability.
For more information see our website, and the recruitment pack.
Do you believe in the power of creativity? Are you passionate about inclusion and community? Do you want to help support a bold, cultural future for Portsmouth? Portsmouth Creates is looking for new people to join our Board of Trustees. We’re entering our next chapter, and your voice could be at the heart of it.
We’re not looking for perfect resumes—we’re looking for passionate people with a commitment to creativity, inclusion, and Portsmouth. You do not need previous Board experience. What matters most is your voice, perspective, and desire to help us grow.
Role of a Board member:
- Commit to attending board meetings regularly and engaging fully in discussions
- Collaborate effectively with fellow board members, upholding confidentiality and valuing diverse perspectives
- Contribute insight and guidance informed by professional expertise or lived experience
- Support the development of long-term strategic goals and organisational priorities
- Review and approve annual budgets, and help ensure the organisation’s ongoing financial sustainability
At present, we are particularly looking for individuals with strong experience in Human Resources, Legal or Governance, Commercial Strategy
As a Board member, you will:
- Provide strategic direction and oversight
- Act as an ambassador for Portsmouth Creates
- Advocate for the growth of the creative industries in Portsmouth
- Champion inclusion, access, and creative opportunity
- Support and challenge the CEO and leadership team
- Ensure good governance, impact, and transparency
What’s the Commitment?
- Quarterly board meetings (2 hours each)
- Allocation and membership of strategic sub committees
- Annual away day for strategy and team development
- Additional optional events or advisory support
With a hybrid-friendly approach to participate in ways that work for you, we understand life is busy, we value commitment and will support you to contribute meaningfully within your capacity.
Portsmouth is a diverse city, and we want our Board to reflect this. We actively encourage applications from individuals who are:
- From Global Majority or ethnically diverse backgrounds
- LGBTQIA+
- Disabled or neurodivergent
- From working class or underrepresented communities
- People with lived experience of marginalisation
Deadline for expressions of interest: 8am Monday 9 June 2025 - Interviews will be held later in June, and these will be held in person in Portsmouth
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Friends of the Lake District (FLD) is looking to recruit new volunteer trustee directors to join its Board to replace those who are retiring.
Applications are welcome from those who may be able to contribute to the achievement of FLD’s purpose which is “to promote and organise concerted action for the protection and conservation of the landscape and natural beauty of the Lake District and the County of Cumbria as a whole and to co-operate with other bodies having similar objects or interests” FLD has a vision of thriving Cumbrian landscapes “for nature, for people, for ever”. Its focus is on campaigning for landscapes that are tranquil, rich in cultural heritage and environmentally healthy, to inspire and mobilise people to work in partnership with us to protect and enhance these landscapes and the communities which live within them for generations to come. FLD seeks to lead by example in demonstrating sustainability and conservation on the land for which it is responsible.
The Board has overall responsibility for the organisation ensuring that: it operates within the aims and objectives of the charity, complies with the regulatory requirements placed upon it by the Charity Commission and other regulatory bodies, and meets the obligations placed upon it in respect of our employees and volunteers who help us deliver our objectives. The Board is answerable to members in General Meetings. There are usually about 6 full Board meetings each year, of which 4 are in person. These are generally full days and are held at or near our offices in Kendal. Some meetings take place by Zoom, which can also make possible remote attendance at in person meetings.
The primary focus of the Board is on strategic and governance matters, but it also has general oversight of the organisation and management of the Chief Executive Officer who with their Senior Leadership Team are responsible for managing the day-to-day delivery of our activities.
Trustee Directors are expected to contribute to delivering our aims by sharing their knowledge and expertise and serving on internal and external committees and assisting with project delivery.
We are currently seeking candidates with experience of working on committees with strategic responsibilities. Expertise or an interest in the following areas would be advantageous, but anybody who shares our aims and vision should not be deterred from applying.
1. Development control and planning policy.
2. Nature Friendly Farming.
3. Visitor management and sustainable transport.
4. Fundraising and marketing.
5. Campaigning and lobbying political and governmental organisations.
6. Partnership and collaborative working.
7. Human Resource Management within the Third Sector.
FLD is driving to increase diversity and inclusion within our organisation and across the Lake District and Cumbria. We welcome applications from anybody who shares our aims.
For more informaiton and details of how to apply, please see our website by clicking on 'redirect to recruiter'.
Friends of the Lake District is an independent charity and the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing Cumbria's landscapes





The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Beat
Beat is the UK’s eating disorder charity. Established in 1989 as the Eating Disorders Association, Beat’s mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders—for all individuals, regardless of background, ethnicity, gender, age, sexuality, or class. The organisation recognises that achieving this mission requires a diverse and passionate workforce.
The Organisation
Beat provides nationwide support through its Helpline, encouraging and empowering individuals to seek help early, significantly increasing the chances of recovery. Support is available online and by phone, offering a space where individuals are heard, informed, and guided toward positive steps in their recovery journey.
Beat also supports the families and friends of those affected, equipping them with the skills and guidance needed to assist their loved ones while also caring for their own mental health. The organisation is driven by its vision to end eating disorder-related suffering, the impact it strives to make, and the collective commitment of its team.
The Role: Treasurer
The Treasurer will:
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Monitor the financial administration of the charity and report regularly to the Board of Trustees on its financial health, in alignment with best practice, charity law, and Beat’s governing document.
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Chair the Finance and Risk Committee, contributing to strategic development and strong governance as a trustee.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
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Chartered Accountant status (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with professional experience in a business, social enterprise, or charitable setting.
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Strong empathy for and commitment to Beat’s mission, bringing energy and determination to support its goals.
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The ability to understand and contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s strategies and plans.
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A willingness to engage actively and constructively in Board meetings and communications, understanding the importance of collective responsibility.
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Leadership skills to chair the Finance and Risk Committee and support the full Board in fulfilling fiduciary duties.
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Enthusiasm for supporting fundraising activities and the willingness to use personal networks to benefit the charity.
Additional desirable attributes include:
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Expertise in financial strategy and planning.
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Familiarity with relevant legislation and regulations, including the Charities Act 2011, tax law affecting charities, and Gift Aid.
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Experience in producing and auditing statutory accounts.
Managing content for the charity's social media platforms, monitoring performance and establishing and/or maintaining active social media accounts, in addition to researching and creating creative content for different social media channels.
What will you be doing?
- Creating and managing daily social media posts across all social media platforms e.g. Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and LinkedIn.
- Develop new, engaging warm-hearted content to increase interest and attract supporters.
- Working in conjunction with the Marketing Manager and CEO, be responsible for posting original, high-quality content (twice per week) to improve our brand presence, grab the attention of our target audience and drive growth.
- Assist with creating our new social media strategy
What are we looking for?
- Clear understanding of social media platforms.
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Highly motivated, enthusiastic and a positive can-do attitude.
- Knowledge of marketing and public relations is also desirable.
Skills, experience and qualities needed
- Creative Skills
- Administration
- Canva Experience
- Commercial Awareness
- Creating Calendar
- Customer Service
- Event Planning
- Fundraising
- IT Skills
- Marketing and PR
- Research
- Team Working
- Written Communication Skills
Time commitment and expenses:
- 1-3 hours per week, either in or out of office hours.
- We request a minimum commitment of 3 months volunteering.
What difference will you make?
Joining our team will give you the opportunity to:
- Contribute to a good cause that shares the same values as you.
- Use and share your skills.
- Gain new skills and work experience.
- Expand your network and social skills,
- Be part of a friendly team of people
- Make a big difference to our organisation and the lives of our beneficiaries.
- Never underestimate the power of your voice.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Buttle UK: Giving children in crisis a chance for change
Are you driven to champion children and young people and possess the strategic leadership skills needed to create change for those facing poverty and crisis? We're looking for a passionate and strategic individual to Chair our Board of Trustees at Buttle UK.
For over 70 years, we've been a lifeline for vulnerable children and young people across the UK, providing vital support through our Chances for Children grants. Building on our strong foundation and a period of reflection, Buttle UK is evolving. We will continue providing crucial, flexible grants but also use our expertise to understand and address the systemic issues that lead to poverty for the young people we support. Our 2025-2030 strategy positions us, not just as a grant-maker, but as a changemaker, committed to ensuring that no child’s future is determined by poverty and crisis.
The Chair of Trustees is a vital role, inspiring and leading our Trustees and staff team, and ensuring we stay focused on our mission. You will work closely with our CEO to achieve our goals, and champion Buttle UK's vital work.
We’re looking for someone with:
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strong leadership abilities
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a strategic mindset
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experience in supporting and mentoring
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exceptional communication skills
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a background in governance (Chair experience is not essential, but charity board experience is strongly preferred).
This is a fantastic opportunity to bring your expertise and passion to a charity where you can truly see the impact of your contribution and help us drive systemic change for vulnerable children and young people across the UK.
We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from all applicants, regardless of race, sex or gender, sexuality, socio-economic background or any other minority or protected characteristic. We look forward to reviewing (and can make reasonable required accommodations) for members of any such groups.
The candidate pack, which includes information on how to apply, can be downloaded from our website
Closing date for applications: midday on Wednesday 4th June
This is a voluntary role
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Become a Trustee at ECPAT UK
We want to recruit a Treasurer and a diverse Board including younger people and those with experience of trafficking and exploitation.
If you are committed to our vision that children everywhere enjoy their rights to be protected and to lives free from trafficking and exploitation then please consider applying to join our Board.
2025 is an important and vital year for ECPAT UK - the leading UK children’s rights organisation working to end child trafficking and transnational child exploitation and abuse.
We are developing our strategy and child centred, rights based and trauma informed approach at a very challenging time.
Our Board of Trustees is critical to our work and success and in shaping our future direction.
We want to make sure our Board reflects the voices and diversity of trafficked young people and to create opportunities for younger people, survivors and people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. We are looking for new board members including:
· a new Treasurer who is a qualified accountant
· a young trustee (under 30)
· a victim/survivor trustee
These are unpaid roles lasting for a minimum term of 3 years. You will need to be able to take part in at least 6 Board meetings each year which will take about 20 hours of your time each year. Attendance at meetings can be in person or remotely although we hope that the Board can meet fully in person at least twice per year. We are looking for a mixture of experience and enthusiasm that will inject the charity with new perspectives, connections and opportunities and specifically financial management experience, policy and campaigns experience and direct practice.
Our new Trustees will receive training and induction and the opportunity to work with our dynamic CEO and team.
Closing date for applications is: 09:00 on Monday 23rd June
Interviews to be held 27 and 28 June
We support children everywhere to uphold their rights and to live a life free from abuse and exploitation.


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!
Ready to help shape the future of students’ lives?
Middlesex Students’ Union (MDXSU) is looking for three new Trustees, including a new Chair of the Board, to join our vibrant and values-driven organisation.
At MDXSU, we empower Middlesex University students to shape their lives, build their futures, and create change—together. Through student communities, campaigning, events, and independent advice, we help turn a good education into a transformative one.
About the Role
We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about education, social justice, and the power of student-led change. As a Trustee, you’ll help shape MDXSU’s strategic direction, scrutinise finances, and ensure we’re fulfilling our charitable purpose.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds—particularly those with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Membership-led or student-led organisations
- Finance or legal oversight
- HR and organisational development
- Higher education policy
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Fundraising and income development
- Charity governance
- Community connections in North London
About You
We're seeking individuals who are:
- Proactive, collaborative and strategic thinkers
- Committed to MDXSU's values and mission
- Confident communicators who can support and challenge effectively
- Passionate about student voice and social change
For the Chair role, we're looking for an experienced leader to guide the Board, support the CEO, and help drive the organisation to new heights. If interested, please indicate this in your application.
Time Commitment & Expenses
- Approx. 5 board meetings per year (in-person in London)
- Optional involvement in sub-committees (4 additional online meetings annually)
- Occasional away days or events
- All reasonable expenses covered, with travel and accommodation booked by MDXSU
How to Apply
To apply, send your CV and a one-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how your experience matches our needs. Please apply by 9am on Friday 6th June to be considered for our initial round of interviews in early June. Applications will remain open until all positions are filled.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the Board of ScotsCare, a historic charity making a real impact for Scots in London.
Applications close on: Monday 14th July 2025
Location: London EC1Y 2AJ
Time commitment: c.1 day per month
About ScotsCare
For over four centuries, ScotsCare has been a beacon of hope for Scots navigating life’s challenges in London. Our journey began in the early 17th century, and today, we stand as a testament to resilience, compassion, and community support.
Our mission goes beyond simple financial aid. We understand that true support means addressing the complex, interconnected challenges individuals and families face. Whether it’s a family struggling with complex issues, a homeless individual seeking support, or an older person experiencing isolation, ScotsCare offers a holistic approach to support.
Our work spans multiple dimensions of care. We provide financial grants to alleviate immediate economic pressures, but we don’t stop there. Our team of dedicated professionals offer bespoke mental health services, including substance misuse, job coaching, housing and homelessness support, and advocacy services. We see each person as an individual with unique strengths and potential, not just a set of challenges to be solved.
The heart of ScotsCare is our people – both staff and volunteers. We’re constantly seeking passionate professionals who believe in our mission of breaking cycles of deprivation. Our team represents diverse backgrounds and skills, united by a common goal: creating meaningful opportunities for Scots in London.
We operate three sheltered housing sites, provide psychotherapy sessions, and run community-building programmes like our ScotsCare choir. These initiatives are more than services; they’re pathways to reconnection, healing, and empowerment.
About the role
As we establish our newly formed Property Sub-Committee, we are looking for a new Trustee to join our board and committee.
As a Trustee, this is an opportunity to be part of shaping ScotsCare’s vision.
Who we are looking for
We seek an individual passionate about supporting Scots in London with executive-level property experience to join our existing, skilled, and diverse team of Trustees.
Experience in property, asset management, estates management, housing and/or development or construction will be vital in ensuring the property strategy is congruent with strategic direction.
You will demonstrate an ability to provide constructive challenge, offering insights that support. Communication is key, so we are looking for a Trustee who is personable, approachable, and able to work seamlessly with our Chief Executive and property lead.
You will be a trusted advisor who brings both professional rigor and a genuine commitment to the charity’s goals, helping to drive ScotsCare’s vision and supporting its important work for Scottish communities.
Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close on Monday 14th July 2025.
We’re an executive search firm working across third sector, education and membership sectors to transform leadership and inspire change.

The country’s only dedicated ancient tree charity, the Ancient Tree Forum (ATF), is looking for a new Trustee with Fundraising Experience.
About us – The ATF seeks to secure the long-term future of ancient trees through advocacy of no further avoidable loss, good management, and the development of a succession of future ancient trees. The ATF is needed now more than ever – this is a critical time for ancient trees, the habitats they support and the landscapes in which they can survive and flourish. Their protection is crucial, not least because these living monuments represent a globally important resource, for biodiversity, cultural connection, mental & physical health, carbon capture, and soil conservation.
The profile of the ATF continues to grow, and its expertise is sought at the highest level. We raise awareness and understanding of the value and importance of ancient and veteran trees to biodiversity, soils, landscape, heritage, and climate. We work with a mix of national charities, landowners, land managers, local authorities, and policy makers in national government and offer specialist training, advice, guidance, and outreach projects.
What we’re looking for – Do you have the ability, empathy and commitment to make a major contribution to the protection of the oldest trees in the country, and all their associated wildlife, history and carbon impact?
Are you an experienced fundraiser from the environmental or wider charitable sector?
If so, we encourage you to consider applying.
If you also understand current ancient and veteran tree-related challenges and issues this would be an advantage, although a background in the wider environment sector and in charities at a relevant level is more important.
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!
We are seeking a trustee with a finance and/or accounting background who will work with the Board of Trustees and Management to ensure the charity's financial viability. There is also a more ‘hands-on’ function managing the charity’s investments and cash deposits.
The Treasurer will maintain an overview of the organisation’s finances, ensuring financial viability, advising and guiding on financial requirements and best practice and providing advice, assistance and information to Trustees (Committee Members) on their financial stewardship responsibilities.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for individuals to join our Board in 2025. In recent years we’ve increased and diversified the membership of the Board including the launch of our Associate Board Member programme in 2023. We are looking to continue this work with dynamic and committed people to support further growth and development, building on our achievements.
We want to recruit new Board Members, alongside an opportunity for two Associate Board Members.
Being a Board Member
Board Members play an integral role in providing robust governance and stewardship, in externally supporting future development through advocacy with regional, national and international stakeholders, potential funders and partners from the public and private sectors. Board Members benefit from working with a small, creative and enthusiastic team on the strategic development of the organisation.
What is an AND Associate Board Member?
We have developed a 12 month programme for two Associate Board Members. These roles will work alongside the AND Board of Trustees, and have been designed as a development programme aimed to support potential candidates who do not yet have (sufficient) board-level experience, or the required availability, but have the passion and potential to be a future AND Board member.
The Associate Board Member roles have been created to support individuals who are currently under-represented in the cultural sector, providing greater access to training opportunities, and to add further diversity and richness of perspective to the organisation.
Associate Board Members will:
- bring unique experience from their field of expertise
- share our passion for new ideas and artforms
- place inclusion and engagement at the heart of our culture and vision
- be provided with relevant shadowing, mentoring or training opportunities to support their skills development over 12 months
- attend quarterly AND Board meetings (without legal responsibility or voting rights)
- have the opportunity to apply to become a Board Member after 12 months
It is not necessary to have governance/board-level exposure or experience, but a general understanding of how boards work is required.
If you feel that you don’t quite meet the person specification in the recruitment pack but you’re excited and interested in the opportunity, please get in touch following the application process outlined below.
Joining the AND Board as a Trustee
We are currently looking for individuals to join the AND Board with experience in the following areas:
- Strategic Regional Public Sector Knowledge
- Environmental Sustainability
- Charity Finance
- PR / Digital Communications
- Regional commercial business knowledge across the creative sector, immersive and digital technologies
This isn’t an exhaustive list, and we’re interested in hearing from anyone who believes they have skills or experience to positively contribute to the organisation. We’re also looking for candidates interested in exploring a Vice Chair role with a view to future succession planning for AND Chair. We’re committed to opening up opportunities to people who are currently under-represented in the cultural sector, and we particularly welcome applications from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds, Disabled candidates and candidates under 30.
What is it like to be on the AND Board?
Read an interview with our Trustees Sam Bompass and Katie Moffat about being on the AND Board.
About AND
AND is an arts organisation known for creating radical, site-responsive projects at the intersection of art, technology and digital culture.
Working across the UK and internationally, AND commissions artists to explore the social, environmental and ethical implications of emerging technologies. Our portfolio includes large-scale outdoor artworks, exhibitions, research programmes, residencies, online projects and our flagship AND Festival — a nomadic biennial bringing cutting-edge digital experiences to diverse locations.
Our work often takes place in unexpected settings, from post-industrial towns to natural landscapes, creating space for bold experimentation and critical reflection. At our core, we champion interdisciplinary collaboration and are committed to inclusive, sustainable practices that challenge what is considered ‘normal’ in culture today
Practical Details
AND’s Board currently meets for a minimum of four times a year, through a mix of online, and in person meetings in Manchester (UK). There are additional, occasional meetings and sub-committee groups which can be attended via video call. We are particularly interested in hearing from North-based candidates, especially those with regional public sector or commercial business expertise, although we are open to applications from candidates from across the UK.
This is an unpaid role. You’ll need to commit around a day a month to the role. AND will reimburse reasonable travel expenses to meetings in full.
How to apply
- Read our AND Board Membership Recruitment Pack or our AND Associate Board Membership Pack
- If you’d like to speak informally about becoming an AND Board Member or Associate Board Member, you are welcome to request a conversation by Friday 30 May 2025
- Following this, we ask for a CV along with a short written statement (max 1 page) / video (max 3 minutes) to be submitted by Midnight Sunday 22 June 2025 with AND BOARD MEMBER ROLE or AND ASSOCIATE BOARD MEMBER ROLE as the subject field.
- Complete an Equal Opportunities Form (submitted anonymously)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chair of the Amnesty International UK Charitable Trust Board
Lead With Purpose. Help Shape the Future of Human Rights.
Amnesty International UK is seeking a visionary, inclusive, and values-driven Chair to lead its Charitable Trust Board at a pivotal moment of transformation and opportunity.
With nearly half a million supporters across the UK, Amnesty stands up for humanity and human rights-wherever justice, fairness, and freedom are at stake. The Charitable Trust plays a vital role in funding this work, both in the UK and globally.
The Role
As Chair, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership to a high-performing and committed Board.
- Continue to foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture across the charity.
- Work in close partnership with the Chief Executive and Executive Team to drive impact and innovation.
- Oversee governance responsibilities and guide the Trust through a period of growth-championing responsible investment, expanding grant-making, and advancing digital and cultural transformation.
About You
You are an experienced and values-led leader with a strong track record in governance. You bring:
- Proven experience as a Chair, Vice Chair, or Trustee.
- A history of leading diverse boards and stakeholder groups with integrity.
- Deep knowledge of charity governance, risk, and compliance.
- Strategic thinking, excellent communication, interpersonal and confident chairing skills.
- Emotional intelligence-you lead with curiosity, compassion, and clarity.
- A powerful personal commitment to human rights, anti-racism, equity, and inclusion.
Practical Details
- Location: You can be based anywhere UK-wide (with London-based meetings)
- Commitment: Approx. on average 2-3 days per month
- Term: 3 years (renewable once)
- Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses covered)
Join the Conversation
We’re hosting a live Q&A webinar on Tuesday 10 June 2025 at 6:00 PM. To receive the recruitment pack and register for the webinar, please send your CV.
Key Dates
- Closing date: 5pm, 30 June 2025
- Interviews: 4 September 2025
This is your opportunity to lead with integrity, shape the future of human rights, and ensure Amnesty International UK is governed with vision, accountability, and courage.
We are committed to equity and inclusion. If you require any adjustments to the application process, please contact us.
Charity People is proud to partner with Amnesty International UK. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. We recognise diversity drives impact.
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!
Excalibur Academies Trust, a dynamic and growing Academy Trust with schools spanning from Bristol to Reading, is looking to appoint a new Chair of Trustees, possessing extensive leadership, governance and chairing experience, to lead its Board. The Trust is based in Marlborough, Wiltshire, comprises 20 schools and has an annual budget of £140m.
Excalibur Academies Trust (EAT) is a dynamic and growing Multi-Academy Trust based in Marlborough, Wiltshire. The Trust comprises 20 schools across a broad geographical area, stretching from Bristol in the West to Reading in the East. It includes six secondary schools (four of which have post-16 provision) and 14 primary schools, some of which include nursery provision, enabling the Trust to deliver education across the full 2–19 age range.
EAT was established in 2012 and has grown steadily, expanding significantly in 2023 by welcoming a five-school Multi-Academy Trust into its fold. The Trust now operates a diverse portfolio of schools serving a wide range of communities, from small rural primaries with mixed-age classes to large urban secondaries with over 1,700 pupils. The Trust includes five Church of England schools linked to the Oxford and Salisbury Dioceses, making EAT a ‘mixed MAT’ with bespoke Articles of Association that accommodate both faith-designated and community schools. The diversity of the Trust is a key strength, underpinning its inclusive ethos and commitment to high standards across all settings.
Ofsted has judged the majority of EAT’s schools as ‘Good’, with one school rated ‘Outstanding’. The Trust has a dedicated School Improvement Team which works closely with schools to support them on their development journeys.
The Trust’s finances are managed prudently, with schools maintaining balanced budgets despite ongoing pressures in the education sector. EAT has an annual income of approximately £140 million and holds comfortable reserves. Some schools include specialist resource bases for pupils with additional needs such as hearing or visual impairments or autism spectrum conditions, and EAT’s provision for SEND and safeguarding has been consistently strong. EAT receives annual capital allocations to maintain and improve its estate. A central estates team supports individual schools, ensuring all buildings are safe and well-maintained.
Governance at EAT is well-established and effective. The Trust has four Members, including a representative of the Church of England, and 13 Trustees from diverse professional backgrounds. Several Trustees joined following the 2023 merger, bringing valuable insight and expertise. The Board is supported by a Head of Governance and has benefitted from an External Review of Governance (ERG), conducted by the Confederation of School Trusts (CST). The recommendations from the ERG have largely been implemented, and the Trust operates a stable and robust governance structure. EAT is a member of both the CST and the National Governance Association (NGA), giving Trustees access to extensive training and support.
The Trust’s Requirements
Excalibur Academies Trust is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the Trust Board and support the Trust’s continued development. The current Chair, who has served since 2018, will step down in summer 2025 due to increasing work commitments. This role offers a rare opportunity to influence the strategic direction of one of the largest and most diverse MATs in the South of England.
The ideal candidate will have previous experience of chairing a Board or acting as vice-chair or committee chair in a complex organisation. They will be comfortable leading a board of significant scale and overseeing matters such as finance, education, risk, and governance. A background in executive leadership—particularly within education, public service, or corporate governance—would be advantageous.
The Chair will play an important strategic and leadership role, working closely with the CEO, Trustees, Members, and executive leaders. While current arrangements do not include a regular scheduled meeting between the Chair and CEO, the CEO is open to establishing a routine catch-up—initially more frequent, then settling to monthly or half-termly as appropriate.
Board meetings are held six times per year, typically on Friday mornings from 9am – 11am, and usually followed by a school tour to see the Board’s impact in action. Meetings take place across sites in the Trust but most commonly include:
- St John’s Marlborough, SN8 4AX
- Ashton Park School, Bristol, BS3 2JL
- John O’Gaunt School, Hungerford, RG17 0AN
- Fairfield High School, Bristol, BS7 9NL
- The Wren School, Reading, RG30 2BB
Occasionally, meetings are held at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, Swindon, SN5 8UB.
Committee meetings are held online via MS Teams, usually on Friday mornings and lasting up to two hours. Trustees are expected to join one or two committees. The current committees include:
- Finance, Premises & IT (six meetings per year)
- Audit & Risk (three meetings per year)
- Education Scrutiny & Student Welfare (four meetings per year)
- Staffing (between four and five meetings per year)
- Academy Committee Chairs (six meetings per year)
- Christian Distinctiveness (one meeting per year)
- Admissions Panel (ad hoc as required)
While the Chair is not expected to lead all committees, the current view is that the incoming Chair will sit on the Finance, Premises & IT Committee (which will be chaired by another trustee, per DfE requirements) and attend Audit & Risk Committee meetings.
The successful candidate will be well-supported in their induction and transition into the role. Existing Trustees bring substantial experience and are committed to ensuring a smooth handover. EAT’s Head of Governance will provide detailed onboarding and compliance support, while the CEO and fellow Trustees will welcome the new Chair into a culture of collaboration, integrity, and shared purpose.
This is a high-impact opportunity for an experienced leader to contribute to the strategic growth and educational excellence of a forward-thinking, values-driven trust. With a proven track record of school improvement and sound financial stewardship, EAT is poised for continued success – and the new Chair will be central to that journey.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
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Actively Interviewing
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MHFA England are seeking a Non-Executive Director with expertise in workplace mental health and wellbeing to assist in agreeing and supporting MHFA England’s strategy, ensuring the delivery of MHFA’s overall purpose and mission as a social enterprise.
The Non-Executive Director will ensure the human and financial resources are available to achieve MHFA England’s objectives by providing expertise and guidance.
There may also be an opportunity for the postholder to sit as part of one of our other governance committees.
Principle duties
- Promoting the highest standards of corporate governance in compliance with regulatory, constitutional, legal, financial, and other obligations
- Overseeing the delivery of MHFA England’s strategy and performance
- Protecting the long-term sustainability of MHFA England
- Safeguarding the reputation of MHFA England
- Providing expert insight, understanding, and experience relating to marketing, communications, and branding
- Leading a Board sub-committee, where required
- Representing MHFA England at collaboration and network events, and contributing to the development of organisational relationships
Person specification
- Experience and knowledge of implementing mental health and wellbeing strategies, policies, training, and support in medium to large organisations, and measuring their impact
- An awareness of economic and political changes that may impact MHFA England
- Sound judgement around corporate governance, financial strategy risk and opportunity
- A commitment to social enterprise and MHFA England’s values and culture
- Highly developed communication, interpersonal, and teamworking skills
- Partnership-minded, political astute and diplomatic, but able to challenge
- Curious and embraces innovation
- A strong personal commitment to workplace equity
Application details
Please submit
- A comprehensive CV including details of your achievements in each role
- A supporting statement. This should clearly set out how you meet each of the criteria set out in the person specification. You should provide evidence in your statement; and not simply a broad claim to have done it - give us examples and dimensions; tell us what this achieved and how it helped meet your organisations' goals
- Please ensure that you indicate in your application any dates when you will not be available, or where we might have difficulty in contacting you
- Please let us know of any accessibility accommodations you may require
Key dates
Closing date for applications is midnight Tuesday 24 June 2025.
Please submit
- A comprehensive CV including details of your achievements in each role
- A supporting statement. This should clearly set out how you meet each of the criteria set out in the person specification. You should provide evidence in your statement; and not simply a broad claim to have done it - give us examples and dimensions; tell us what this achieved and how it helped meet your organisations' goals
- Please ensure that you indicate in your application any dates when you will not be available, or where we might have difficulty in contacting you
- Please let us know of any accessibility accommodations you may require
Our vision is to create a nation where everyone's mental health matters.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.