Chief operating officer volunteer roles
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 time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking for a new Chair for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation.
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 time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking for a new Treasurer for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation.
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!
Brent Foodbank are seeking to recruit two trustees - one to act as our Fundraising Lead, with the other supporting the work of the Board of Trustees more generally to support the food bank to meet its core purpose.
What will you be doing?
General Trustee Key responsibilities:
- As board members, we work to set a long-term strategy for Brent Foodbank, defining clear objectives and milestones to be monitored and refined.
- Managing Brent Foodbank’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk and not over-commit the charity.
- Ensure appropriate financial plans are in place for future budget allocations as well as ensuring that the charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law.
- Adhering to best practice for governance of the Foodbank’s assets and staff.
- Ensure the Foodbank has appropriate procedures in place to comply with current legislation and best practice, including - employment, health and safety, safeguarding, equal opportunities and GDPR/data protection compliance.
- Ensure the Foodbank treats all its Clients with dignity and respect taking account of the diversity of our Clients.
- Acting with reasonable care and skill.
- Seeking to promote Brent Foodbank in the community. Acting as an ambassador for Brent Foodbank, promoting Brent Foodbank widely, for instance, on social media to our stakeholders, including: our Clients, Volunteers and potential funders/donors.
Note that if a Trustee becomes involved in making a Gift Aid claim for the Foodbank, a fit and proper person referral would be required.
Fundraising Lead Trustee Key responsibilities (in addition to the above):
- To work alongside the Treasurer and the rest of the Board to plan what level of funds are required to be generated to ensure the effective running of the charity.
- To work alongside the Trustee Board to ensure that any grants are sought and written with the purpose of meeting the charity's vision and objectives.
- To pilot the organisation of a fundraising sub-committee and lead on local fund-raising opportunities to support the running of the charity, including incorporating national Trussell fundraising campaigns/events throughout the year.
- To oversee, with operational management support, the writing of high-quality grant applications that align with the charity's vision and objectives.
- Regularly communicate with the rest of the Trustee Board via Trustee meetings or any other communication of any relevant information and/or developments regarding fundraising or grant applications.
What are we looking for?
The role involves acting as a charity trustee to set the strategic direction for the food bank. Providing good governance, ensuring that the food bank meets its objectives and fulfils its charitable purpose. Ensuring the food bank operates within its budget and in compliance with its charity, legal and operational goals.
Trustees are required to comply with the food bank’s governing documents, charity law and other relevant laws. They must act in the food bank’s best interests, including deciding what will best enable the charity to carry out its purpose, as well as making informed decisions to support food bank staff in achieving the vision/objectives of the food bank and ensuring there is a good relationship between the Trustee Board, food bank staff, and our stakeholders including: volunteers, our clients, funders, donors and the community in Brent.
Brent Foodbank are seeking to recruit Trustees with an interest in helping others, who are willing to uphold the food bank’s values, and who can bring life experience to the board of trustees. We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst supporting the food bank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:
- A commitment to the work of Brent Foodbank.
- A knowledge and passion for your local community.
- Passion for our vision and goals.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board.
- Independent judgement and ability to think strategically.
- Able to work effectively as part of a trustee team, contributing and considering others’ views.
- Able to commit the time and effort required.
- Bring relevant capabilities that help the board perform its role effectively and achieve the food bank's vision.
- Understanding and commitment to principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion.
The food bank would particularly welcome applications from those with experience in one (or more) of the following areas:
- Serving on a board of trustees or committee
- Strategy development
- Working or volunteering in a fundraising role
- Designing or organising events
- Grant writing
What difference will you make?
By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Brent Foodbank.
Please apply through CharityJobs in the first instance, providing a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Board of Trustees at Brent Foodbank.
Applicants must be primarily resident in the UK when applying for this post. This is to enable successful applicants to fulfil the duties of this post and have access to any systems or programs required for the role in line with the charity’s data protection policies.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Trustee – PR & Marketing Specialist
Help shape the future of deer conservation and education
The British Deer Society (BDS) is looking for a passionate and experienced professional to join our Board of Trustees, bringing expertise in PR and marketing to help us expand and diversify our reach.
Why join us?
As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in guiding BDS, ensuring we achieve our mission to educate, inspire, and advocate for deer welfare. You’ll provide strategic oversight, support our executive team, and help grow our membership by engaging diverse audiences across age, gender, and background.
About the role
Our Trustees share collective responsibility for the governance and administration of the charity. This includes ensuring BDS has a clear strategy, that our goals align with our vision, and that we operate effectively and ethically. Trustees act as a group, working collaboratively to support and challenge the leadership team.
What we’re looking for
We seek a Trustee with:
✔ Expertise in PR and marketing, ideally with experience in membership growth and audience engagement
✔ A strong understanding of governance and strategic oversight
✔ A passion for conservation, education, and wildlife advocacy
By joining BDS, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of deer conservation and education in the UK.
Interested? Apply now and help us take BDS to the next level!
We educate and inspire everyone about deer. We highlight the importance of evidence-based deer management. We champion deer welfare relentlessly.
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!
Become our Trustee Tresurer and chair our Finance Committee.We need a Trustees with energy, enthusiasm and commitment to help accelerate our influcence on wildlife and nature recovery issues in the country and beyond.
With a refreshed 3-year strategy (23-26), “A Wilder Herefordshire, More Nature Everywhere” we’re working hard to recover nature at scale through deeper collaborations, working with local community organisations and networks to develop a clear plan for nature’s recovery. We are also working with neighbouring Wildlife Trusts, river partnerships and national partners such as the Woodland Trust, National Trust, and Duchy of Cornwall.
So, with lots happening, it’s an exciting if challenging time for the Trust. Urgent action is needed to address the decline of wildlife in our beautiful county – and we need to muster all the resources and skills we can to succeed.
We are a welcoming board who support and challenge each other to do better for wildlife.
We look to recruit trustees from a range of backgrounds, life stages and skills to join us.
At this time, we wish to recruit someone to take on the role of Treasurer, and chair our Finance Committee. You would need the following skills and qualities:
· A strong commitment to wildlife conservation and the Vision of the Trust;
· Demonstrable experience of financial management;
· The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences;
· A good understanding of governance, gained either as a Trustee of another charity, a director of a company, or as a manager who has worked with Boards;
· The ability to apply clear logical thinking and creativity to developing our strategy
If you are successful, you will be welcomed and supported by a talented and committed board of trustees, a strong and experienced staff team and an active and expanding band of volunteers and by the wider Wildlife Trust movement. We hope you are inspired to apply, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Alison McLean OBE, Chair, March 2025
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!
Changing Lives, One Step at a Time ✨
Julian House is a charity committed to supporting the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in our society. Through a range of life-changing projects, we help thousands of people each year—providing pathways out of homelessness, offering refuge from domestic abuse, and supporting individuals into employment and independent living.
Our mission is simple: to transform lives by delivering high-quality housing and tailored support services, empowering people to build brighter, more stable futures.
Role: Board Member (Trustee)
Role type: Trustee - Volunteer
Location: Bath
The Role:
We're looking for a passionate and dedicated individual to join our Board of Trustees!
As a trustee, you'll play a key role in shaping our strategy, providing strong governance, and ensuring we stay true to our mission. You'll help guide our long-term vision, support leadership, and ensure our resources are used effectively to maximise impact. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference and help us adapt, grow, and create lasting change.
Apply now by submitting your application, including your CV and a supporting statement.
Key responsibilities include:
- Fulfil the legal duties of the trustee role.
- Define the strategic direction and agree on business and financial plans.
- Oversee risk management at Julian House, ensuring potential risks are identified, assessed and effectively mitigated.
- Shape and champion the culture of Julian House, ensuring that all decisions and behaviours align with our core values and that these values are deeply embedded throughout the charity.
- Monitor and evaluate performance, ensuring that all actions and resources are effectively directed toward achieving Julian House’s charitable objectives.
Commitment
Trustees serve an initial three-year term (extendable up to nine years) and attend four in-person board meetings annually in Bath or Bristol. Meetings start at 4 PM and last around four hours. Trustees also join at least one committee or the subsidiary board, with four online meetings per year (5:30 PM start, 2.5 hours). Additionally, there is one full strategy day each year.
What we are looking for:
We are seeking a dedicated individual with exceptional communication skills to champion our cause. The ideal candidate will possess strong listening abilities, be receptive to feedback, and appreciate diverse perspectives.
Creativity is essential—you should think innovatively, bring fresh ideas, and be willing to challenge the status quo. If you are a natural influencer with a passion for making a meaningful impact, we would love to hear from you.
In addition, we are looking for individuals who can bring at least one of the following specialisms to the board:
- Deep understanding of charity fundraising, most likely from having held senior leadership fundraising positions in charities.
- Deep understanding of charity retail, most likely from having held senior leadership retail positions in charities.
- Strong networks and relationships with donors, sponsors, and partners, with the potential to leverage connections to benefit Julian House.
- Direct lived experience of the types of services that Julian House provides.
Please note, that board experience is not a requirement, the selected candidate will be assigned a ‘buddy’ on the Board and will be fully inducted into the trustee role.
Trustee appointments are subject to eligibility and vetting checks, if you would like further information on this please get in touch.
Get in touch
If you have any questions about this role, please get in touch with the recruitment team at Julian House. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
Please note: We reserve the right to close our vacancies once the perfect candidate has been found. We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible so that you don’t miss out!
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!
YMCA Trinity Group – Trustees
‘Inspiring communities, transforming young lives’
Job Advert Ref: Trustees2025
Registered Address: YMCA Trinity Group, Queen Anne House, Gonville Place, Cambridge CB1 1ND
YMCA Trinity Group is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Our programs span Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, putting people at the core of our mission. We take time to find the right fit, believing that open dialogue builds the strongest Board. We're a dynamic, team-oriented group seeking members who can contribute their unique skills and experience.
We are specifically looking for expertise and skills in the following areas;
· Business Development
· Strategic Planning
· Change Management
· People and Culture
· Finance
· Marketing
· IT
YMCA Trinity Group has served local communities since 1852, and we're committed to a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We also welcome young people seeking Board experience.
Trustee roles are both rewarding and demanding. Join us in creating new possibilities for young people and communities. If you're ready to make a difference, we want to hear from you!
Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you soon!
YMCA Trinity Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff to share this commitment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Please read the attached Trustee Information Pack for more detail
As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in the governance and strategic oversight of the charity, ensuring that we operate effectively, achieve our mission, and comply with all legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are collectively responsible for safeguarding the charity’s assets, ensuring they are used exclusively to further our objectives, and overseeing the charity’s financial health, including budgets, financial controls, and reporting. Acting with integrity and in the charity’s best interests is at the heart of the role.
To strengthen our board and support the growth of our charity, we have identified three key areas where additional expertise is needed:
- Marketing
- Legal
- Fundraising
Each of these areas play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission, enhance our impact, and ensure the charity’s sustainability for years to come. In the attached Recruitment Pack, we have outlined individual role profiles for each of these specialisms.
We welcome candidates from diverse professional backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting those affected by Body Dysmorphic Disorder. If your current or previous skills or experience align with any of these profiles, we encourage you to apply and join us in driving meaningful change.
To apply for this role, please submit the following documents:
- An up to date CV outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.
- A cover letter of no more than 800 words indicating which role you are applying to, explaining why you are interested in the Trustee role, what you would bring to the board, and how your skills align with the needs of the charity.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a panel interview. The interview panel will include:
- Dr. Rob Willson (Chair of the Board)
- Dr. Amita Jassi (Vice Chair of the Board)
- Kitty Wallace (Managing Director)
- Gemma Ponting (People & Projects Manager)
Interviews are due to take place week beginning 16th & 23rd June 2025
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!
Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.
Cats are at the centre of everything we do, and our objectives are homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.
We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.
A bit about this role...
Every penny counts when it comes to improving the lives of the thousands of cats and kittens across the UK that need our help each year. Our Collection Box Volunteers help us raise vital funds by collecting and distributing collection boxes in their local area. Making a difference can mean as little as raising 20p, which is enough to feed one cat in our care for a day, to £150 which is the average cost of a cat in our care.
What can I expect to be doing?
As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:
- Researching local shops, pubs and businesses to place Collection Boxes
- Delivering Collection Boxes to locations
- Recording donations and thanking local businesses and supporters
- Collecting and replacing Collection boxes when they're full
- Sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting the work of Cats Protection
What are the benefits to you and the cats?
You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of Volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.
We're looking for someone with:
- Sympathy to cats and our values
- Good communication skills
- Confidence in speaking to members of the public
- Confidence in handling money
How much time is expected of me?
Our Collection Tin Volunteer role is very flexible and can be completed at your own pace, independently with our dedicated support.
Support, guidance and keeping you safe
At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.
The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.
Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection!
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


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!
Become a Fundraising Volunteer!
Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.
Cats are at the centre of everything we do, and our objectives are homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.
We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.
A bit about this role...
Please note - Due to the nature of fundraising roles, our volunteers must be over the age of 18.
As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.
As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you!
What can I expect to be doing?
As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:
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Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with our fundraising events, attending supermarket collections or local markets.
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Distributing collection tins – popping collection tins into local shops and pubs and collecting them when they’re full.
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Bringing new ideas! - We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life.
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Engaging with your local branches and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team!
What are the benefits to you and the cats?
You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.
We're looking for someone with:
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Sympathy to cats and our values
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Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees.
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Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities
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Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising
How much time is expected of me?
Our Fundraising Volunteer roles are very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule!
Support, guidance and keeping you safe
At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.
The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.
Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection!
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


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 time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking to recruit 2 new trustees. We are looking to diversify the experience and expertise of our Board, and we believe that there are people out there who have knowledge, skills and passion in different areas that will help SWWB. Areas for organisational development include:
· Embedding lived experience expertise into the design, delivery and evaluation of our work
· Developing our campaigning and strategic work
· Building up our social media and comms presence
· Stepping up our fundraising game
If you think you can help with any of these things (or something else), and you are interested in being a trustee, please get in touch, we would love to hear from you!
Join us on a transformational journey
Be part of something powerful. As a Trustee on the Board of AfriKids UK, you’ll help shape the future of a proven, high-impact organisation that’s ready to go further. You’ll bring your ideas, insights and perspective to help us improve and grow for the children and communities we serve.
About AfriKids
AfriKids is an award-winning, locally-led charity dedicated to ensuring the rights of children in northern Ghana. Our mission is to help unlock the power of communities to ensure child rights, with a focus on helping people secure the means, motive and opportunity for every child to complete a quality basic education, as the most sustainable route out of poverty. Locally-led and internationally supported, we work hand-in-hand with local communities to design and deliver programmes that create lasting change for children, so they can thrive now and as the leaders of tomorrow. AfriKids UK exists to support this mission through faciliating access to international funding, partnerships, technical support and expertise — working in close collaboration with AfriKids Ghana, our independent local implementing partner.
The Role
With nearly 25 years of experience behind us, our Boards in the UK and Ghana are now helping to lead us through a period of transformational change, to impact more children than ever. We are seeking two more trustees to join the Board of AfriKids UK. As a Trustee of AfriKids, you will share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the charity, with guidance and support to learn about your responsibilities as a trustee if you have not been one before. Trustees play a crucial role in ensuring that AfriKids operates in accordance with its mission, values, and legal obligations. This is an opportunity to lend your unique knowledge, skills and experience to help advance our mission and make a difference for children.
Unlocking the power of communities to ensure children's rights in northern Ghana, so that they can thrive now and as the leaders of tomorrow.



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!
Join Our Board of Trustees and Help Drive Positive Change!
Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a team environment and want to give back to the community where you live, work, or study?
We are a local charity dedicated to providing social welfare advice, information, and support through our incredible team of staff and volunteers. We are now seeking two new Trustees to join our board and help guide our organisation forward.
Last year, we:
✅ Assisted over 15,000 clients in finding solutions to their challenges
✅ Addressed over 37,000 separate issues for those in need
✅ Secured nearly £2 million in additional income to support people during the cost-of-living crisis
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities across Cheshire West—your age, background, origins, or health conditions are not barriers. We actively seek diverse perspectives to better serve our community.
We are particularly interested in individuals with:
Experience in digital and AI solutions implementation
Expertise in volunteer engagement
A strong commitment to our mission, enthusiasm, and a supportive approach
However we welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, skills and experience including lived experience.
What’s Involved?
As a Trustee, you will:
Attend at least five board meetings per year (in-person and remote, often in the evenings)
Participate in one annual trustee development day
Have opportunities for further involvement in shaping our work
This is a voluntary role, but all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Volunteering does not affect state benefit entitlement.
If you’re ready to play a key role in shaping the future of our organisation, we’d love to hear from you!
We advise, support and empower people to improve their lives providing the best, impartial advice and influencing policy for a more equal society
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!
Dear Prospective Trustee
Thank you for your interest in Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML). This pack sets out more information about the charity, the board, the role of a trustee, and how to apply.
We are excited about the future and are looking for energetic, talented and committed individuals to help support the charity as trustees to continue its incredible work for the people of Merton and Lambeth.
What we do
CAML is one of the busiest advice charities in London. We support individuals and families who live, work or study primarily in the London Boroughs of Merton and Lambeth and also elsewhere (dependent on service). We also work to raise awareness and understanding of the challenging issues affecting individuals and our communities.
We were one of the first Citizens Advice services to open our doors over 85 years ago. We have had an extremely busy few years, with individuals and families increasingly seeking our support with the cost of living crisis. Our support and services are as important today as they were when our work began.
We are part of the national Citizens Advice network of over 240 local charities that deliver advice across the country.
In FY 23/24, we supported over 25,000 individuals. Our information, support and advice services are provided via telephone, online, video conferencing and face-to-face. We provide face-to-face support from two CAML offices and multiple outreach venues in local communities. Our aim is to empower people to better help themselves, but we are always here with further support if needed.
CAML in 2025
CAML is at an important point in its history. Demand for our services continues to accelerate as high levels of hardship become an established reality for many people living in our boroughs. The two boroughs we serve contain pockets of wealth and affluence, but also feature areas of significant poverty and deprivation where our services are most depended upon.
At the same time, similar to many charities, we face funding challenges – not least given the majority of our funds come from our local authorities. Our current turnover is over £1.2m a year. Like others, CAML faces funding challenges often related to changes in central government policies and local government financial challenges, with a need to look at new ways of diversifying income streams.
The organisation has a strong foundation from which to deliver in this difficult environment – particularly with a team that is committed to our clients and expert in giving quality advice. We also have positive working relationships with our funders, councils and partners, and a strong local reputation.
Our leadership
The operational leadership and management of CAML is carried out by our CEO, Simon Shimmens, with three senior managers and a team of around 40 staff and 20 volunteers. Short biographies of our existing trustees are available on our website.
The role of the Board
Each trustee has a responsibility to contribute to discharging the Board’s responsibilities. We do this by:
● Regularly preparing for, attending and participating in meetings
● Understanding the business of CAML
● Contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance
● Monitoring our services, ensuring compliance with our governing documents and policies and monitoring maintenance of Citizens Advice standards
● Monitoring the charity’s financial position and ensuring it operates within its means and delivers on its objectives with clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management
● Supporting the charity’s development through participation in agreed projects
● Actively seeking to further CAML’s strategic objectives and acting in its best interest at all times
Above all we are looking for people with strategic vision and independent judgement who together can support the charity and its executive team. As trustees we are visible to our staff and volunteers, engaging and recognising the excellent work they do. Each trustee is expected to spend time with service delivery staff and volunteers, ideally at least once a year.
You will be a genuine team player, able to support colleagues, input constructively and positively to discussions and to support and uphold collective decisions.
As a trustee you will support the charity’s values and objectives and will act as a positive and genuine advocate promoting the work of the charity within your personal networks and to the wider world.
The commitment we need
Each trustee attends quarterly Board meetings and is a member of one of the delegated authority sub-committees – Finance and People – which also meet once a quarter.
While the precise nature will differ month-to-month, this is likely to average at eight to ten hours a month. This allows for board and committee meetings, reading papers in advance of these, ad-hoc actions and discussions, and visiting CAML’s services.
Board meetings are currently held in person in our Mitcham Office, with sub-committee meetings held remotely. Across the Board, we attend key events such as Volunteers’ Week and charity events/activities.
Particular skills/experiences we’re seeking
We are looking to recruit two new trustees to join our strong and dynamic Board.
We would particularly welcome applications from those with skills and experiences to help complement the current Board. Our priority recruitment areas are:
●HR: We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward and recognition as well as staff and trustee training and development. We are seeking a trustee with senior HR experience to support the strategic oversight of our People approach.
●Accountancy: Financial oversight is an integral part of a well-functioning trustee Board. We are looking to further bolster this expertise within the Board to provide support for our Treasurer if required.
●Pensions: CAML has a legacy Defined Benefit pension scheme (closed to new entrants) and a Defined Contribution scheme. We are looking for an individual with actuarial or pension trustee skills to advise the Board with regard to our pension schemes, and whether we should be looking to make any changes.
●Legal: We are looking to further expand our legal expertise on the Board. We particularly welcome interest from individuals with experience in charity law however all applicants with legal experience are welcomed.
In addition to these skills, we would welcome applications from candidates with previous trustee experience and/or applicants who may be open to taking on the role of Vice-Chair (further information can be provided on this if requested).
The benefits of being a trustee with CAML
Although the role of a trustee is unpaid (reasonable out of pocket expenses are reimbursed), there are many reasons to join us, including:
● Being a trustee is one of the most powerful ways in which you can contribute to your local community and to a cause you care about.
● Corporations of all sizes take voluntary and community enriching activities seriously with trusteeship considered an effective method of professional development and community engagement.
● Being a trustee is a fantastic way of developing your strategic experience and oversight, giving you the opportunity to develop your critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills.
● Being a trustee can open up your professional network.
How to apply
Follow the link to our website and complete the relevant documents at the bottom of the advert.
We are recruiting on a rolling basis and are considering applications as and when we receive them. This recruitment remains live until 30th June 2025.
All applications are considered by a trustee panel, with shortlisted candidates then invited to an interview, to take place within a month of receiving their application.
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