Executive volunteer roles in sydenham, greater london

We’ve been shaping social change since 1884.

In our 141st year, we are looking for new Trustees to us achieve our vision of a  fairer future for East London and beyond.

Vacancy: Finance Trustee x 2

About Toynbee Hall

Toynbee Hall works alongside people facing poverty and injustice to build a fairer future.

Based in the East End of London since 1884, we provide vital support to individuals through our advice and support services and work in partnership with local communities to tackle unfairness through research and advocacy. We are a place where people come together to work out solutions to the challenges facing us all and to shape systemic change.

As a charity we are governed by our Trustees - a group of volunteers who have responsibility for setting our strategy and ensuring we meet our charitable objectives.

However, with the pandemic's aftermath and the ongoing cost of living crisis, we face unprecedented challenges. The most vulnerable communities are hit hardest, and our role has never been more critical. We are constantly reviewing our own allocation of finite resources to ensure we are clearly and effectively focusing on where we can make the greatest impact. 

We are looking for Trustees with finance experience to join our Board; helping to shape our future plans and strategy.

Over the past five years, Toynbee Hall has undergone a significant renewal, revitalising our historical buildings, creating spaces that not only provide advice and community connections but also generate revenue to support the delivery of our services and research. Like many organisations we face challenges and some difficult decisions over this period but we are energised about the changes we want to see and how we can contribute. We are also keen to collaborate and grow our projects and thus have wider impact.

We have an engaged, diverse and skilled Trustee Board who are working alongside our senior team as we implement our new strategic plan and organisational priorities.

You can find out more about our existing Trustees on our website.

What we are looking for and what we can offer

It is important to us that we attract Trustees from a range of backgrounds. You don’t need to have previous experience of being a trustee, so please don’t let that put you off!

We will offer an induction program and support to take up the position.

We aim to have a trustee board that reflects the local community, so we especially encourage to apply if you live in Tower Hamlets or who have a personal connection with Toynbee Hall, Tower Hamlets or the East End. Our Board is currently diverse in age, gender and ethnicity and we are committed to maintaining that diversity. We particularly want to hear from potential Trustees who are Black or Asian.

The essential responsibilities of a Toynbee Hall Trustee is to ensure that the organisation pursues its charitable objectives and ensure we remain a going concern.

Trustees must be people with independent judgement, with an ability to think strategically and creatively about the challenges and opportunities ahead.

For this role you will have a financial qualification with at least 3 years’ experience in finance / accountancy. Ideally experience in financial decision making. An understanding of charity funding would be an advantage.

Above all you need to have real enthusiasm for our work and for supporting and guiding our Chief Executive and Toynbee Hall’s passionate and committed staff and volunteers so that they remain focused on tackling inequality and poverty in East London and beyond. And in return we are commitment to helping you gain experience in the non-profit sector strategy and decision making.

 The time commitment to be a Trustee

We ask our Board members to attend four evening Board meetings a year, an annual away-day and to be a member of one Committee. Our Committees meet up to three times a year. At the moment our committee meetings tend to be over video, where Board meetings aim to be in person. In person meetings take place at Toynbee Hall’s home in Commercial Street, E1. Board and Committee meetings are held in the evening.

Each Board member serves for a three-year term. This will then be reviewed by the Board with a maximum nine-year term.

Our Board members are also active ambassadors for Toynbee Hall. This means attending and supporting events and taking opportunities to promote and develop the work of Toynbee Hall through networks and contacts.

Next steps and what to expect

We will be accepting applications until midday on 9th June 2025. Interviews will be held with two of our trustees (online) and a second stage with the Chief Operating Officer (in person).

Bgen, the Botanic Gardens Education Network, is seeking a new Treasurer Trustee to join its Board. This unpaid voluntary role offers a unique opportunity to support a small, but passionate charity at a pivotal moment in its growth.

Bgen is a specialist support network for professional plant and natural world educators. We help our members to connect people and plants in innovative and engaging ways, through online events, face to face training and networking events and our Annual Conference.

We are looking for a Treasurer who will bring enthusiasm, commitment, fresh perspectives and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board. The successful candidate will combine professional financial knowledge and experience with a deep commitment to supporting our mission in this vital non-executive role.

As our new Treasurer trustee, you will play an active role within the Bgen Board and provide leadership on its financial health, ensuring robust processes, accurate records and sound-decision making with transparency and accountability.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the dynamic Board and support our work to empower plant and environmental education and engagement professionals across the UK.

Availability and commitment

 As a Board member you will need to be able to attend up to six board meetings per year (held online) and the Annual General Meeting, organised in January – February each year. You will also spend around 2 -3 days per quarter in between meetings, to prepare the quarterly accounts, provide advice and coordinate payments, with support from the Bgen Coordinator and Bgen Bookkeeper. Days may vary throughout the year, depending on activity.

On the 7th or 9th October, we are hosting a Bgen Board Strategy Away Day at Birmingham Botanical Gardens and your attendance would be extremely helpful.

This position would be for a period of three years minimum (term can be renewed after this time).

Overview

The Centre for Transforming Access and Student Outcomes (TASO) is an affiliate What Works Centre, and part of the UK Government’s What Works Movement. Our vision is to eliminate equality gaps in higher education (HE). Our mission is to improve lives through evidence-informed practice.

TASO was set up in 2019 and became an independent charity in April 2021. Our work focuses on the generation, synthesis and dissemination of high-quality evidence about effective practice in widening participation and student outcomes. We primarily focus on developing and disseminating causal evidence. 

We are now looking to appoint new Trustees to take TASO forward into its next phase of development and ensure we are an effective and impactful organisation. This is a great time to join us on our journey, offering the opportunity to contribute to shaping and developing an organisation that has the potential to transform lives.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people who are values-led with wide-ranging experiences across different sectors who can bring a different way of thinking. Above all, our Trustees will be passionate about what TASO is striving to achieve.

We are looking for a number of new people with the following professional experience to join our Board:

• Finance and accountancy
• Risk
• People
• Charity and/or company law

We expect the time commitment to be a day a month. This will include quarterly meetings, occasional considered input into working groups and attendance at sector events.

We are looking for one, or more, of our new trustees to sit on our finance and risk committee. 

You do not necessarily need to have any experience of being a trustee; TASO will give you a full induction and support to help you develop into this role.

We are committed to diversifying the Board and welcome applications from people whose identities are currently under-represented on the Board: LGBTQ+ people, disabled people and Black, Asian and minority ethnic people.

For a confidential discussion about the opportunity please contact: Omar Khan CEO of TASO

For more information on the role please visit the TASO website

How to apply 

To apply, please visit the TASO website

Deadline for applications: 9am Thursday 22nd May

Thyroid UK is a small UK charity with a very wide reach and even bigger ambitions. Since 1998 we have become a leading source of support and information for many thousands of people seeking help with their thyroid condition each year.

As an Independent Examiner for Thyroid UK, you will review our accounting records and annual accounts to ensure they are accurate, comply with legal requirements, and provide an independent assurance to trustees and stakeholders that the charity's money is properly accounted for. 

Job Description:

Overview:

• The Independent Examiner plays a crucial role in maintaining public trust and confidence in charities by providing an independent scrutiny of their financial records. 
• The examiner's responsibilities include reviewing accounting records, comparing them with the annual accounts, and reporting any concerns to the charity trustees. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Review Accounting Records:

Examine the charity's accounting records to ensure they are properly maintained and support the annual accounts. 

• Compare Accounts with Records:

Verify that the annual accounts accurately reflect the financial position of the charity as shown in the accounting records. 

• Consider Unusual Items:

Identify and seek explanations for any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts. 

• Assess Compliance:

Determine whether the accounts comply with relevant legal requirements and accounting standards, including the Charities Act 2011. 

• Prepare Examiner's Report:

Prepare a report for the charity trustees outlining the findings of the examination, including any matters of concern or material significance. 

• Maintain Independence:

Ensure that the examination is conducted independently of the charity's management and administration. 

Qualifications and Skills:

• Financial Awareness and Numeracy: 

Must be appropriately qualified in matters of accounting and financial administration. 

• Understanding of Charity Accounting: 

Should have experience of working with small charities, plus knowledge of charity accounting principles and regulations. 

• Analytical Skills: 

Must be able to analyse financial data and identify potential issues. 

• Communication Skills: 

Should have the ability to clearly and concisely communicate findings and recommendations to the charity trustees. 

• IT Skills: 

Must be familiar with Xero or similar cloud based accounting software.

Reporting:

• The Independent Examiner's report will be submitted to the Charity Commission along with the charity's annual accounts. 
• The report should clearly state whether the examiner has reasonable cause to believe that:
  • Proper accounting records were not kept. 
  • The accounts do not accord with the accounting records. 
  • If accruals accounts were prepared, they do not comply with the legal requirements and the applicable SORP. 

Location: The examination can be done remotely.  Our office is based in Frating, Colchester, Essex.

Closing Date: End of August 2025. Thyroid UK reserves the right to close for applications at any time should the position be filled.

Start Date: ASAP

Submit a CV and a cover letter to express your interest.

Those who submit their CV will be considered and will be invited to an informal insight event towards Janunary 2025 before interviews occur.

What does a Trustee do! 

A Trustee’s role is to act in the best interests of the organization. They are accountable for the organization’s finances, legal affairs, overall performance, and serious arising issues. Trustees must ensure that executives align with the organization’s purpose and mission, acting in ways that advance these goals and uphold the organization’s values. Statutory duties include ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, safeguarding assets, and maintaining accurate financial records.

Commitment

Each Trustee will attend Trustee meetings on a regular basis, a Trustee may also be appointed as a Co Chair and into other roles such as Treasurer and Secretary, and also may join a committee.

A Little About Us!

Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organisation with the aim to become a CIO soon. We use a research-led approach promote and further the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work and research. We promote and empower change.

What we are looking for!

We are looking to appoint experienced Trustees with a background in one or more of the following areas: finance, law, academia, research, leadership, youth sector, policy, education, social action, human rights, issues facing young people and fundraising.

Why we need you!

Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for Trustees to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organisation. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. 

​What we offer!

Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to join us. By being a Trustee with us you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organisation who is looking to help young people in the UK.

Trustee

The Education and Skills Development Group (ESDEG) was established by local refugee leaders and social care professionals who identified critical gaps in services for people from refugee and marginalised communities. Through extensive community consultations across local estates, community centres, and schools, we have been able to provide responsive and preventative services for children, young people, families, older people, and others from socially excluded communities. We engage in and [lead] various policy networks. We have proven track record in working with schools, children and families at local level. We have been trusted by many funders to deliver projects that benefit local marginalised communities. We provide educational and community projects including supplementary schools, mentoring, ESOL classes, short breaks for children who special educational and disability (SEND), project to help local elders escape isolation and engage into physical and social activities, youth work, information and advice and support for families who have children with Send.

ESDEG is currently seeking individuals who are eager to make a meaningful contribution by volunteering their skills, experience, ideas, and passion to the organisation’s development and future direction.

· Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

· A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

· Skills in finance, governance, fundraising, communication and networking is desirable.

· Our current board lacks young members so we would like young trustees to apply and join us.

Our board meets quarterly unless there are specific issues that warrants the board to be called into a meeting, the minimum requirement is 4 meetings a year which usually takes place in the evening. If trustees can offer more time and support particular projects will be appreciated.

Thanks

Mohamed Ahmed

CEO

Cord is seeking to appoint two trustees to strengthen our current capacity and ideally bring some complementary skills to the way we govern.

Being a trustee is a valuable role. Together, the Board of Trustees provides the oversight and accountability necessary to ensure that Cord implements its strategy in line with our values, and complies with the requirements of the Charity Commission.  

We do not require trustees to have prior Board experience and are open to seeking trustees with a variety of skills and experiences. At this time, we particularly welcome applications from those with skills/experience in charity fundraising (either public or trusts/major donors or institutional), and legal/charity governance.

We are interested in hearing from individuals who not only share our Christian values but have an active Christian faith. We celebrate difference in all its interpretations, and applications are actively encouraged from individuals from diverse backgrounds, in particular, those who reflect and represent the communities we work in.

Trustees are invited to serve on the Board for a three-year period, at the end of which they are eligible for re-election, up to a maximum of three three-year term limits. Applicants will be based in the UK or be able to commit to in-person UK meetings. Board membership is not a remunerated position, but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Applicants will need to be able to commit their time to four Board meetings (two in-person and two online) and attend three 90 minute online meetings per year in the evenings.

Good Vibrations is a national arts organisation that changes lives through music. We work with some of the most vulnerable and hard to reach people in the UK, including in prisons, secure hospitals, and in the community. We are best known for using the Indonesian gamelan, a magnificent set of bronze gongs, xylophones and drums. We use communal music-making to support vulnerable people in challenging circumstances to develop transferable life and work skills and to forge fulfilling, constructive lives.

We have an outstanding track record, with the impact of our work evidenced through nine independent pieces of academic research, including by Cambridge University and the University of London.

We are a Registered UK Learning Provider and OCNL Qualification Centre and hold National High Secure Prison Effective Intervention Status.

We are looking for new people to join our Board of Trustees as two members are reaching the end of their tenure. This is a very rewarding voluntary position with an ambitious charity.

We are looking for people with experience of one (or more) of the following areas:

• Lived experience of challenging circumstances / complex needs
• The arts / music in particular
• Fundraising
• Law
• The Criminal Justice System
• Business development
• Financial management
• Strategy

In particular we are looking for a treasurer to help provide strategic financial oversight, ensuring the charity’s financial stability and compliance with regulatory requirements. As a trustee, the Treasurer will work closely with the Board, CEO, Head of Delivery, and any finance-related professional advisors to support decision-making and financial planning. 

This is a voluntary governance role for which your travel expenses would be covered. Trustees are asked to commit to attending 4 meetings (in the evenings) and 1 strategic development day a year. They are also asked for help by sharing their skills on developmental projects. We are particularly interested in people who have experienced the issues participants of our courses have experienced.

To see who is already on our Board, visit Our Board of Trustees on our website's about us section.

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to expand our existing Trustee Board, to bring their experience and fresh, innovative and realistic ideas to the charity.

To apply click below and please include a CV and cover letter.

The Programmes & Services department keeps our organisation running. Our team work directly with volunteers by offering them support.

Our Programmes & Services department is divided into four roles. Each of these roles reports to our Programmes & Services Manager. Our four roles are: 

• People Coordinator 

• Volunteer Engagement Coordinator 

• Referrals Coordinator 

• Training Coordinator 

Key tasks and responsibilities 

• Track the attendance of all volunteers. 

• Maintain friendly relationships with caseworkers. 

• Be the first point of contact for queries from volunteers and signpost to the relevant team/person. 

• Support the accessibility needs of volunteers attending in person or online. 

• Organise socials for the organisation. 

• Feedback volunteer experiences to the management team. 

• Support the People Coordinator to ensure the smooth onboarding and offboarding of volunteers. 

• In person attendance on Saturdays is compulsory but there is no expectation of remote work throughout week. 

Lively Minds is a fast growing innovative charity that gets pre-school children in rural Ghana and Uganda school-ready. We are looking for a seasoned Treasurer/Financial Trustee to support the Chair and Board, as we expand our operations.

What will you be doing?

Lively Minds is an award-winning UK registered Charity working to get pre-schoolers in rural Ghana and Uganda school-ready. One of the main barriers to school-readiness is that parents in remote communities lack the information, education and aspiration to provide basic and cheap opportunities for their children. 

Our behaviour change programme empowers uneducated & marginalised Mothers to run educational Play Schemes for pre-schoolers and to provide better home-based care, using cheap local resources. The charity is proud that it has been proven through a randomised control trial to improve children’s cognitive and socio-emotional development and to reduce child acute malnutrition. These are exciting times for Lively Minds. The Government of Ghana have adopted the Lively Minds programme and we are now supporting them to scale it to over 4000 communities. 

We are also seeking to develop a similar partnership and scale-up strategy in Uganda. We plan to expand to other countries too over the next few years and are also exploring how we can take on more of a thought leadership role in the global Early Childhood Development (ECD) space. Lively Minds is supported to deliver in its mission by a selection of well-respected international innovation funders.

The Treasurer will play a vital governance and support role in helping us achieve these goals and will join a skilled, diverse and friendly Board.

What are we looking for?

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or other CCAB Recognised Body).
• Significant accounting experience and demonstrable commercial awareness.
• Knowledge of or a willingness to learn charity SORP and impending changes.
• Competent use of IT skills.
• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders in a simple and compelling manner.
• Analytical and evaluation skills, demonstrating good judgement.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Good communication and leadership skills

Desirable

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of charity fundraising and finance practices.
• Dedicated to Lively Minds’ cause and objectives and willing to act as its ambassador to external bodies, charities and companies.
• A team-oriented approach to problem solving and to management.
• Knowledge and experience of Africa

What difference will you make?

You will be a key member of the Board and in collaboration with the CEO and CFO monitor the financial aspects of the charity - cash flow, income, expenses and strategic management of Lively Minds resources. In addition you will Chair the Finance and Audit Committee and oversee the risk management process and end of year accounts. 

Before you apply

Please reply to Reach in the first instance with a covering letter indicating why you are interested and a CV. Applications will be  processed as they are received and selected candidates will have an initial two way exploratory chat on Zoom with the Chair

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:

• strong leadership abilities

• a strategic mindset

• experience in supporting and mentoring

• exceptional communication skills

• 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

It’s an exciting time for the Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse: momentum is growing, with heightened public awareness of domestic abuse following the pandemic, increased government focus, and employers increasingly recognising their crucial role in enabling employees to recognise the signs of, and seek support on, domestic abuse.

The Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (known as EIDA) is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in our mission to empower employers to act effectively against domestic abuse. 

Our aim is to ensure that all team members, volunteers, trustees, job applicants and the people we come into contact with are given equal opportunity and that our organisation is representative of all sections of society.

We want our board to be representative of our society and membership and particularly welcome applications from people with lived experiences of domestic abuse, people based outside the southeast of England and in the nations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and from people with experience as a people manager or employer, large or small.

Who we are

We are a free-to-join members' network of employers and a registered charity supporting over 1,500 large and small employers to take effective action on domestic abuse.  Our members collectively employ over 25% of the UK workforce.

Our mission is to equip employers to support their employees affected by domestic abuse and to share best practice with other employers.

We endeavour to bring about constructive change, leading to a society where survivors thrive, and where domestic abuse is not tolerated.

Our Trustees are volunteer board members who play a vital role in making sure that EIDA achieves its mission.  As a group, they:

• Oversee the overall management and administration of the charity.
• Ensure that EIDA has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.
• Provide support and challenge to the executive team, enabling EIDA to grow and thrive.

We are seeking up to two new Trustees to join the existing group of ten  You can see current members of our board on our website. 

EIDA has a UK-wide remit with a membership made up of employers, and we want to reflect that across our Trustees.

Trustee duties

Trustees are the people who lead our charity and decide how it is run.  We envisage the trustee duties broadly as:

• Support and provide advice on EIDA’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee EIDA’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve EIDA’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to EIDA’s CEO.
• Keep abreast of changes in EIDA’s operating environment.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect EIDA’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Participate in periodic appraisals of the performance of the Board of Trustees, collectively and individually.
• Represent EIDA at external functions, meetings and events.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will contribute to the diversity of thinking on our board.

Whether you are an experienced trustee or are looking to take your first step at board level, we would like to hear from you. We ask for:

• Commitment to tackling domestic abuse and EIDA’s mission.
• 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.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions.
• A strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and EIDA’s core values of Collaboration, Empowerment, Versatility, Openness and Kindness.
• Time to commit to supporting the organisation, including attendance at Board meetings (2 hours, 5 times annually), virtual and in-person events (4-6 annually) and any sub committees.
• Ability to build and maintain a healthy network that promotes the aims of EIDA across the business community, to drive member growth, and to enhance EIDA fundraising activities.
• Experience in leading teams, managing people, or influencing organisational culture.

Terms of appointment

Position: Trustee

Location: This is a hybrid role, with occasional travel required to Board and network meetings held in central London

Terms: A maximum fixed term appointment of one three-year term followed by a further three-year term

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment: EIDA’s Board of Trustees meets 4-5 times a year within the working hours of 10-5pm.  Currently meetings are held in London and remotely (Zoom).

Closing date

9am, Monday 23 June 2025.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received, so early applications are appreciated.

About Refugee Employment Network

The Refugee Employment Network (REN) unites non-profits, local authorities, and businesses to improve employment access for refugees across the UK. As the only national membership network focused solely on refugee employment, REN works to ensure that all refugees can pursue fulfilling, paid work or self-employment.

What will you be doing?

Join REN as Treasurer and play a key role in guiding the organisation’s strategic direction and financial sustainability. REN’s financial operations, including payroll, are managed externally, so the Treasurer’s input is primarily at a governance and advisory level rather than day-to-day financial administration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise on REN’s financial strategy, planning, and resource allocation.
• Ensure the Board receives clear and timely financial updates, including Annual Accounts.
• Oversee the preparation of accounts in line with funder and statutory requirements.
• Recommend and monitor effective financial controls, procedures, and policies.
• Lead on the appointment and review of external auditors.
• Collaborate with the CEO to support financial planning and delivery of goals.
• Ensure compliance with funder conditions and financial reporting obligations.
• Provide oversight of financial risks and identify opportunities to strengthen REN’s financial position.
• Lead Board-level discussions on financial matters and contribute to policy on reserves, investments, and financial governance.

What are we looking for?

Essential:

• Passion for and commitment to Refugee Employment Network’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Experience of successfully dealing with strategic issues, interpreting complex information and business planning.
• Ability to collaborate, support and build relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrable commitment to diversity and inclusion.
•  A recognised financial qualification or relevant experience in a strategic finance role.

Desirable:

• Experience serving as a Trustee or Treasurer, or working within the charity sector.

REN values equity, diversity and inclusion in our workplace and we encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity status, or socio-economic background.

What Difference will you make?

You won’t just be balancing numbers - you’ll be helping refugees build stable, hopeful futures through meaningful employment. As Treasurer, your insight will help REN make smart, strategic decisions that directly impact how we support thousands of people starting over in a new country. You’ll be a key voice in shaping how we grow sustainably, stay accountable, and make every pound count toward creating real, lasting change.

Time Commitment

• Board meetings are held either quarterly or every two months, and typically last 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Meetings are typically in London or virtually, offering flexibility for in-person or remote participation.
• We expect the time commitment to be up to 1.5 days a month. At times this may vary given the time of year.

Who They Are
Music of Life is a charity dedicated to building and strengthening the skills, well-being, and confidence of children and young people with disabilities through music-making. The organisation envisions a world in which all children, regardless of ability, have equal access to music education and participation.

To achieve this, Music of Life provides high-quality music education and performance opportunities. As children progress, the charity supports their transition into community-based activities, such as joining a youth choir or playing in a band, fostering long-term engagement and inclusion.

The Role: Board Secretary (Voluntary)
To further enhance its governance and effectiveness, Music of Life is introducing a new voluntary position: Board Secretary. This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a focused, impactful organisation that is making a real difference through music.

Role Summary
The Board Secretary plays a vital role in supporting good governance and ensuring the smooth operation of the charity. This prestigious and purpose-driven role is suited to a highly organised individual with a passion for music, education, and supporting children with disabilities.

Working in close collaboration with the Chair, Vice Chair, and CEO, the Secretary ensures clarity, continuity, and compliance within the charity’s leadership. As a key member of both the Board and the Advisory Council, the Secretary enables these bodies to operate efficiently and to meet their legal and statutory obligations.

The organisation is open to discussing whether the Board Secretary will also serve as a trustee and welcomes thoughts from prospective candidates.

Key Responsibilities

Board Meeting Management

• Coordinate Board meetings, including preparing agendas and distributing materials in advance

• Attend meetings, take accurate minutes, and manage the approval process

• Maintain an action log and ensure all relevant records are submitted to the external Examiner

• Coordinate the annual Board and Chair appraisal process

Trustee Management

• Maintain up-to-date records on trustees, including roles, appointments, and declarations of interest

• Oversee trustee recruitment, reappointments, and terminations

• Develop and implement annual trustee recruitment and succession plans

• Support the onboarding of new trustees and coordinate ongoing training and development

Advisory Council Support

• Coordinate Advisory Council meetings, including agenda setting and distribution of materials

• Attend meetings, take minutes, and manage the approval process

• Ensure clear and timely communication between the Advisory Council and the Board

Person Specification
This role is best suited to someone with exceptional organisational skills and keen attention to detail. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, have strong communication abilities, and be capable of fostering cooperation to ensure timely outcomes. They should be calm under pressure, particularly when working to deadlines.

Experience with—or a willingness to learn about—charity governance and regulatory requirements is essential. Being based in the South-East of England would be an advantage.