External trustee 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!
Role Description and Person Specification
Role Title: Trustee (volunteer)
Reports to: Chair of the Board & Chief Executive
Based at: Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent
Hours of work: 3-4 hours per month
Remuneration: This is a voluntary position and no payment will be made to the post holder,
other than genuine expenses, as set out in the volunteer policy
Overview
North Staffs Mind has been delivering mental health services to both adults and young people for almost 50 years. We have recently merged with Mid Cheshire Mind which will enable us to widen our reach across Staffordshire and Cheshire, ensuring we can provide support to even more people in need of our services.
We pride ourselves on our relaxed and friendly atmosphere and our commitment to delivering high quality, client focused, professional services that can adapt to meet the changing needs of the local community.
Time commitment
Typically Board meetings are held four times per year, plus additional time for our annual general meeting, sub-committee meetings, events, and occasional ad-hoc tasks. The role may require additional time commitment for reading papers, preparing for meetings, or representing the charity at external events.
Meetings are usually held in-person at an external local venue, with occasional opportunities for remote participation.
Role Purpose
As a Trustee, you will play a critical role in overseeing the strategic direction and governance of North Staffs Mind. Your responsibilities include ensuring the charity meets its objectives in supporting individuals with mental health challenges, maintaining financial stability, and complying with legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees act in the best interest of the charity, making decisions that align with its strategic plan, aims and values.
Key Responsibilities
Governance and strategic oversight:
· Contribute to setting the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring that it remains focused on its mission; we won’t give up until everyone with a mental health problem gets support and respect.
· Monitor the charity’s performance against its objectives, reviewing key performance indicators and assessing the impact of its activities.
· Hold the Chief Executive and senior leadership team to account.
· Ensure robust and effective governance policies and procedures are in place, regularly reviewed, and adhered to.
Financial Stewardship:
· Oversee the financial health of North Staffs Mind, ensuring resources are used effectively and that the charity operates within its means.
· Approve budgets, annual reports, and financial statements, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial matters.
· Ensure the charity has adequate risk management processes, including the identification and mitigation of financial risks.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
· Ensure the charity complies with its governing document (articles of association), charity law, and other relevant legislation and regulations.
· Keep abreast of changes in the legal and regulatory landscape that may affect the charity, ensuring that necessary adjustments are made.
Fundraising and Advocacy:
· Support and participate in fundraising efforts, helping to secure resources necessary for the charity’s operations and growth.
· Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work to external stakeholders, including donors, partners, and the wider community.
Human Resources and Staff Wellbeing:
· Ensure the charity has appropriate policies in place for the recruitment, management, and development of staff and volunteers.
· Uphold and champion a culture of inclusivity, respect, and wellbeing within the organization.
Risk Management:
· Identify and evaluate risks to the charity’s operations and reputation, ensuring appropriate mitigation strategies are in place.
· Through feedback from the risk subcommittee, have an oversight of North Staffs Mind’s risk register, ensuring you are aware of any emerging risks.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
· Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and the senior leadership team, fostering a culture of collective decision-making.
· Participate in subcommittees or working groups as needed, contributing your expertise to specific areas of the charity’s work.
Person Specification
Essential
· A commitment to North Staffs Mind’s aims and values, with a passion for supporting mental health.
· Strategic vision and the ability to think creatively and critically about the charity’s future direction.
· Strong understanding of governance, financial management, and legal responsibilities in a charitable context.
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
· Integrity, impartiality, and a commitment to transparency and accountability.
Desirable
· Experience of working collaboratively with other agencies and organisations and with service users, their carers and families.
· Previous experience serving on a board or in a governance role.
· Knowledge of fundraising, marketing, or advocacy within the charitable sector.
· Understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions and the systems designed to support them.
Benefits
· Opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals affected by mental health issues.
· Gain experience in governance and strategic leadership within the charity sector.
· Network with like-minded individuals and professionals passionate about mental health.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Council of Deans of Health is a membership organisation and charity representing over 100 UK universities and colleges engaged in education and research for nursing, midwifery, and the allied health professions. At any one time, our members educate around 200,000 current and future professionals and carry out research that improves the population’s health and wellbeing.
Our Board of Trustees is responsible for oversight of the administration and management of the Council, which is led by the CEO who is accountable to the Board. This includes setting and monitoring the implementation of the Council's strategy, and ensuring its financial sustainability and its compliance with legal requirements. The Board of Trustees will play an important role in taking forward the Council’s strategy, overseeing the continued growth of the Council and ensuring its financial sustainability.
We are looking for a new trustee with a range of skills and different life experiences gained from a broader background and wider discipline to join our energetic board. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of charity law and regulation.
Key responsibilities:
· Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the Council, including taking forward the Council's agreed strategy.
· Ensure the Council complies with its governing document, company law, charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
· Oversee the Council’s financial management with the overall aim of achieving financial sustainability.
· Safeguard the organisation and advise on diversification of income to support the Council’s development.
· Work effectively and collaboratively with the Chair and other Board members in providing support and effective scrutiny to the Council's senior staff team.
Some of the essential competencies we are looking for all Trustees:
· Demonstrate a commitment to understanding the Council's business, the sector context and wider policy issues across the four nations of the UK;
· Demonstrate excellent communication skills and an enabling, inclusive approach;
· Ability to think strategically and offer advice, guidance, support and constructive challenge to oversee the effective delivery of the Council’s strategic objectives;
· Demonstrate a track record of collaborative working in an organisation with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders;
· Ideally, have experience at senior management or board level in other organisations and experience of charity governance.
Please apply by visiting the Thewlis Graham website and following the instructions in the candidate brief quoting reference AC0401. The closing date is 20 May 2025 at 4pm.
Do you want to help promote social mobility, and diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)? Can you play a valuable strategic leadership role in a charity that supports young people from low socioeconomic backgrounds to achieve their potential and progress to careers in STEM?
Remuneration: The Trustee role is not remunerated, travel and other reasonable expenses may be claimed.
Location: Remote, with one in person strategy meeting in London per year.
Time Commitment: Four board meetings per year, plus up to three virtual committee meetings per year (depending on committee membership) and a small amount of support and advice as required between meetings.
Application Submission: The application deadline is 17:00 on the 2nd of June 2025
Overview of In2scienceUK
In2scienceUK is a charity with a mission to empower young people from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to achieve upward social mobility by unlocking their potential to access degrees and careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
Responsibilities
The role of a Trustee is to ensure that In2scienceUK fulfils its duty to the young people with whom it works and delivers on its vision. The trustees of In2scienceUK fulfil an essential and influential role, and have the opportunity to both support the activities and strategic decision making of the charity.
Trustees have collective responsibility for the strategy and oversight of the charity and the trustee board works as a team to fulfill its statutory role, to provide help and advice to the staff team, and to represent the organisation in their respective networks.
The expected duties of an In2scienceUK trustee are:
- To contribute actively to teamwork within the Board of Trustees, providing strong strategic direction to the organisation in line with its mission and purpose.
- To safeguard the reputation and values of In2scienceUK and ensure the effective and efficient administration and financial stability of In2scienceUK.
- Support the effective running of the organisation, by scrutinising the work of the leadership team in a way that is supportive and motivational. Trustees collectively hold executive staff to account for their performance, are involved in executive appointments as appropriate and appoint a Chief Executive Officer whenever necessary.
- Serve in one or more subgroups of the board for a deeper dive into Income/Growth, Operational Assurance, Evaluation & Learning, and People.
- To ensure that in2scienceUK complies with articles of association and fulfils charity commission responsibilities.
Experience and skills
The most important characteristic of our trustees is a commitment to helping young people from low socioeconomic backgrounds access social mobility through careers in STEM, and so helping to ensure that the STEM professions are populated by people reflecting diverse backgrounds, in all respects including socio-economic background.
We need the right mix of skills overall and anticipate making 4-6 appointments in this round who will work collaboratively to ensure good governance and the success of the organisation. Specific areas where we would like to strengthen the team, bearing in mind our natural turnover and our strategy for the future, are listed below. If you are able to contribute in one or more of these areas, please make this especially clear in your application.
Lived experience: Personal experience of transitioning into STEM degrees and careers from an underrepresented background.
-
We are interested in applications from young people still going through this transition, for example undertaking undergraduate study, and for whom we can provide additional support in the trustee role as needed; we see this as an excellent development opportunity and a chance to get governance and leadership experience on the CV in line with our overall mission.
-
We would welcome applications from current In2scienceUK participants and alumni. Trustees are required to be 18 years or older.
-
We are also interested in hearing from people with current experience of working with young people undertaking this transition.
Professional expertise: Finance, Communications, HR, Governance, Entrepreneurship, Fundraising and philanthropy, Career advice/coaching
-
The whole of the board is responsible for key decisions such as budget setting, strategy, policies and prioritisation, however it is useful to have subject experts who can take a functional lead on helping ensure colleagues are asking the right questions and getting good answers.
Commercial contacts: An understanding of corporate social responsibility and sponsorship, networks in industries and organisations that employ STEM professionals
Subject areas: Personal experience and industry or academic contacts in the following subject areas
-
Maths/Computing/AI,
-
Life Sciences,
-
Physical Engineering.
Treasurer: We are currently seeking a Treasurer to join the board of Trustees and take the lead on finance. This is an immediate vacancy with our current Treasurer coming to the end of their term. The Treasurer will be a qualified accountant. We are looking for people who have pre-existing experience or desire to support an organisation of our size. As such, the role will be both providing financial oversight and governance as well as providing advice, support and guidance to our executive team. Those applying without prior charity accounting experience should be willing to undertake any relevant training.
Chair succession: While not an immediate appointment, as part of managing Chair succession we are interested in people who would be candidates for a chair designate role and chair in due course, probably via an initial Vice Chair position within the organisation.
For those who have any further questions or would like an initial discussion about these roles with our current Chair, Jonathan Flowers, please contact us. ( Our email address can be found in the documents under 'Application resources').
Recruitment Process
The application deadline is 17:00 on the 2nd of June 2025
Please send a covering letter and CV about how you would contribute to the work of the trustee board . Please ensure you set out specifically how you would want to contribute and the experience, skills or insights you would offer us, based on the list of skills and experiences above. We would like each applicant to include a concise (no more than 2 sides of A4) cover letter that goes beyond repeating their CV.
Equal opportunities
In2scienceUK is committed to promoting diversity and equality of opportunity for all staff and trustees. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of ethnicity, age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnerships.
As part of our commitment to creating a more inclusive environment, we ask all applicants to complete an equality and diversity monitoring form ( link can be found in the 'How to apply' section on Charity Job). This information is collected anonymously and used solely for monitoring and reporting purposes. It helps us to better understand who we are reaching, identify gaps in representation, and ensure that opportunities at In2scienceUK are accessible to all. All responses are kept confidential in line with data protection regulations.
Governance
We kindly ask all prospective trustees to complete a Declaration of Interest form as part of the application process. This helps ensure transparency and allows us to assess any potential conflicts of interest, ensuring the best governance for our charity. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated as we work to strengthen our board and further our mission.
Interview and selection
Successful candidates from the application stage will be interviewed by existing trustees. The interviews will all be held via Zoom and take place between the 7th and 21st of July.
Safeguarding
In2scienceUK is committed to our responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults as outlined in Working Together to Safeguard Children. We are committed to recruiting trustees who share this commitment to safeguarding, and therefore we apply robust recruitment and selection procedures to ensure that the people selected are right for the job, and that all candidates are appropriately screened prior to appointment.
The following checks will be undertaken as applicable:
-
References
-
DBS check and/or Overseas criminal records check where applicable
-
Self-Disclosure
-
Identity check
-
Confirmation of registration with applicable registered body where applicable
Further information can be found in the documents below.
In2scienceUK exists to unlock the potential of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and boost diversity and inclusion in the STEM sector.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Brooke is seeking two new board members with specific background or experience in the following:
- Digital/technology transformation
- Fundraising – individual, institutional, or major philanthropy
- International development
- Legal and / or governance
We are proud to be Brooke. We are resourceful, share new ideas and help each other succeed. Together we make change happen.
Brooke’s work across Africa, Asia and Latin America transforms the lives of animals and people in the communities we serve. With our ambitious plans for growth throughout 2025-26, these are key roles to support Brooke as we soon develop an ambitious new global strategy from 2027.
We are currently seeking new members to join our highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated board, bringing invaluable experience and expertise to drive our mission forward. You will be joining a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated team, together pursuing the goal of global compassion and healthcare for working horses, donkeys and mules and the communities that depend on them.
Working closely with the Chief Executive and senior leadership team you will ensure Brooke effectively delivers its inspiring mission and is governed to the highest of standards. Your responsibilities will include shaping and reviewing our strategic objectives, guaranteeing alignment with our charitable goals, and maximising public benefit.
We are seeking individuals with wide-ranging experience and a proven track record of strategic leadership. Your ability to challenge constructively, coupled with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, will be instrumental in fostering a supportive yet empowered environment. As a member of our diverse board of Trustees, you will contribute to shaping policies and priorities that ensure Brooke's financial stability and long-term impact.
If you are passionate about the welfare of working animals and the communities they serve, and are ready to make a tangible difference, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of Brooke. Be part of something truly meaningful by becoming a board member today.
Closing date: Sunday 25th May.
Interviews to be held w/c 2 June.
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 looking for a Treasurer with experience of working with not for profits in setting strategic financial direction and it would be desirable to have experience in complying with the Charity Commission for England and Wales or similar bodies’ regulations.
You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we implement our new strategy, build on our campaigns, broaden our advocacy to mobilise greater support and achieve change. In line with this, we have built our model on realistic income forecasts, we plan to maintain the net unrestricted funds available, we are building restricted funding streams to fund our thematic priorities, we continue to align income and expenditure and we carefully manage the commitment of our remaining surplus reserves.
Responsibilities of the Treasurer
In addition to the general duties of a trustee (see below), the responsibilities of the Treasurer are to maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the organisation has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting. For example, by taking a lead role on behalf of the board in:
-
Reviewing budgets, accounts and financial statements, and recommending them to the Board for approval
-
Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs
-
Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy
-
Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place
-
Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy
-
Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the relevant statutory bodies
-
Ensuring that the accounts are scrutinised through external audits and internal reviews and that any recommendations are implemented
-
Keeping the Board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities
-
Chairing the Resource Mobilisation and Communications Committee (formerly the Finance and Human Resources Committee), leading online meetings three times a year
-
Ensuring that organisation has processes in place to meet any compliance requirements
-
Ensuring the organisation has a risk management process in place
-
Reviewing and signing financial transactions and other documentation requiring board approval
Family values mutual accountability and has a Responsibility Framework which outlines responsibilities and rights for board trustees, members and staff. The Treasurer has a key role in ensuring that mutual accountability is upheld in areas of finance by identifying and highlighting potential conflicts of interest.
General duties of a trustee of a Trustee of Family For Every Child
-
To ensure that Family for Every Child complies with its governing documents, UK charity law, UK company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations of a UK registered charity
-
To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association, and that it uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
-
To ensure that the organisation operates within the parameters laid down by the members in the Governance Manual
-
To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. In doing so, to ensure that the Board has taken account of input from the membership
-
To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
-
To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
-
To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
-
To monitor the performance of the Chief Executive Officer
-
To represent the organisation externally
-
To represent the board on relevant subsidiary entities
More information is available upon request / application.
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!
Trustee
Unpaid Role (Voluntary role, but all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed)
Bristol / Home based
Part-time, fixed term (Initial 3-year term with an option to extend to a maximum of 9 years)
Closing Date: 30th May 2025
Our client is inviting applications to join its board of trustees. The Charity is seeking applications with specific professional backgrounds to supplement existing expertise on the board.
They are looking for Trustees with experience in Legal, Property, or Communications, though we welcome applications from all sectors.
They also want their Trustees to represent Bristol, so actively encourage applications from ethnic minorities, disabled people and anyone who identifies as part of a community that is underrepresented in the charity.
Background
The foundation's mission is to bring the club and community together.
The foundation works across Bristol, with a primary focus on Young People and families, areas of deprivation, and South Bristol.
The foundation delivers programmes and services that support people who feel that society has written them off. Their high-quality, targeted work focuses on three key areas: Health and Well-Being, Education and Employability, and Youth Engagement.
Current Position
The foundation has steadily grown its programmes and services over the last eight years. The Foundation is nearing the end of its 2022-25 strategy and plans to launch a new three-year strategy in 2026.
Skills and experience required
They welcome applications from any candidate who can demonstrate such expertise and skills as:
- Relevant professional qualifications, experience, and expertise with board-level or senior management experience
- Experience working closely with communities
- Experience working in Legal, Property, or Communications
Personal Specification:
Essential
- Understanding and accepting Trusteeship's legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities.
- Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities
- Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims
- Good, independent judgement, political impartiality, and the ability to think creatively in the context of the organisation and external environment
- Good communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to respect the confidence of colleagues
- Balancing tact and diplomacy with a willingness to challenge and constructively criticise
Desirable
- Prior experience in committee/trustee work.
- Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation
- A wider involvement with the voluntary sector
- Experience in committee work
All Trustees are expected to uphold and represent the foundation’s purpose, vision, values and mission in a personal and professional capacity. The board of trustees will consider any applicant with the right skills and experience.
The successful candidate will be required to spend a minimum of 12 days per annum on work for the Foundation, including Board Meetings, the AGM, an annual 1:2:1 performance review with the Chair, and a yearly Board away day and at least 4 Board subcommittee meetings per year.
The trustee is expected to support and participate in some Foundation events throughout the year and provide ad hoc support to the team and Board as required.
The Foundation is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse Board of Trustees and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and those from ethnic minority backgrounds.
All suitably experienced applicants will receive consideration for these positions without regard to race, ethnicity, religion or belief(s), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, or pregnancy or maternity.
The Foundation is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and adults at risk and requires all employees to share this commitment and promote the welfare of these groups.
Apply today with a CV to start your application.
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!
Friends of the Dales is a membership-based registered charity founded in 1981 which works to protect and enhance the Yorkshire Dales and encourage everyone from all backgrounds to value and enjoy this special area.
We are a campaigning organisation and work on a wide range of environmental and social issues that affect the biodiversity and landscape of the Dales, and the well-being of local communities.
The organisation employs 3 part-time staff, with offices in Gargrave.
The Treasurer is a volunteer Trustee / Director of the organisation elected for 3 years, with an option to stand for re-election for a further three years. The role will become vacant in 2025 when the term of office of the current incumbent expires.
Responsibilities The Treasurer is a key member of the organisation, working closely with the Chair and the Executive Director. The role is responsible for ensuring that the Board carries out its financial and governance obligations and that the Charity complies with the requirements of Company and Charity law. Specific responsibilities include:
1 Financial management • Advising the Board on financial issues and on all aspects of expenditure and income generation • Production of periodic financial reports (income and expenditure statements) for Trustees (financial records are maintained by office staff) • Cash flow management and reporting • Oversight of the production of the Annual Report and Accounts (statutory accounts are prepared by external auditors) • Management and optimisation of deposit accounts in line with the organisation’s ethical standards • Reviewing and making recommendations on financial controls
2 Corporate Governance • Advising the Board on good corporate governance and compliance with Charity Commission requirements (supported by the Executive Director) • Chair of the Finance & Governance (F&G) Committee • Maintenance of the organisation’s Risk Register • Working with the Chair, advising on Board composition and Trustee development • Working closely with the Chair and Executive Director on the development of corporate strategy 1Friends of the Dales is the trading name of The Yorkshire Dales Society, a Company Limited by Guarantee, Registered No 1822908, and a Registered Charity No 515384. The Charity is registered with the Fundraising Regulator
3 Internal management • Line management of the Executive Director • Oversight of HR issues (supported by pro bono professional advice from a third party). Note: payroll and tax are administered by a third party • Advising the Board on insurance issues
Scope of the role:
The turnover of the organisation in 2023/24 was £74k although this can vary significantly from year to year depending on legacy income. Membership accounts for c 50% of income. There is currently a planned annual operating deficit of c£55k funded from reserves which, at the end of 2023/24 were £332k, of which £310k were unrestricted.
A review of the organisation’s Business Model is currently being undertaken; the Treasurer will be expected to contribute to this. Both the Board and the F&G Committee meet quarterly.
Meetings normally take place in Gargrave on weekdays during normal working hours although these timings may be reviewed in the future. Further ad hoc meetings with staff and Trustees take place on an as needed basis. Regular use is made of video calls.
Skills and Experience:
The Board is keen to broaden the diversity of Trustees; whilst welcoming expressions of interest from people of any background, applications from minority ethnic groups and from younger people are especially encouraged. The role could provide a development opportunity for an individual looking to acquire / develop experience of the charitable sector.
The role requires some level of numeracy and basic spreadsheeting skills. A formal accountancy background is not required. A knowledge and awareness of company reporting and Charity Commission requirements would be helpful.
The role would suit someone with some experience of general management in a not for profit environment or a commercial organisation.
An interest in landscape and biodiversity management in protected areas would be advantageous.
Note: Consideration may be given to splitting the role between the financial and the corporate governance / internal management components should this better suit the skills of individual applicants.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. We are member-led, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Introduction
Thank you for your interest in our Lay Trustee roles here at Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU); based in beautiful Cornwall. We're very pleased to announce the opening of applications for our esteemed Board of Trustees. We are very proud of what we do, and we are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. You will need to share the values of the SU and commitment to achieve our priorities, working collaboratively to help take us to the next level. We are a member-led charity, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Our membership comprises of students studying with both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter (Cornwall) which creates a unique and special experience of which we love to be a key part of.
The role of Lay Trustee provides an opportunity to support our President Trustees and Student Trustees, foster a culture of student leadership and deliver a student focused service.
You will be taking up the role at a critical and exciting time, as we are undertaking two crucial pieces of work: finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan, and beginning the quintennial review of our Constitution. If you are excited at the prospect of contributing to the growth and development of the SU, then we eagerly anticipate the possibility of working alongside you to shape the future of our organisation.
We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in Finance, Higher Education, Human Resources, Charity or Employment Law.
About Us
We’re an autonomous organisation and we’re funded by the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Acting independently ensures that we remain entirely focused on our students with one purpose in mind: to improve their student experience.
As a registered charity (1193045), our charitable purpose is the advancement of education, and our funds can for used for this charitable purpose only. This means that as a not-for-profit organisation: any income we gain goes straight back into providing services for students.
We are a member-led democratic organisation; our students are at the heart of everything we do. Our members views, opinions and experiences regarding students’ lives influence decision makers operating at every level, helping to shape the wider student experience and we enjoy positive collaborative relationships with both universities. Students have the power to shape what the Union does through our Annual Student Members’ Meetings and referenda, and they lead our Student Forum, which determine our Union priorities.
We are proud of the range of opportunities and services that we provide to students, which includes student led societies and sports clubs, volunteering opportunities, professional independent specialist advice, academic representation, and democratic activities. We also help students to organise a wide range of events and activities specifically for their fellow students.
Our Board
Our board is unique in the charity sector. We have a young and dynamic board; two thirds of the trustees are either recent or current students at the universities resulting in a purposefully high turnover of trustees. The charity is based in a complex, ever-changing Higher Education sector, working closely with two very different universities.
We have three sets of Trustees:
• Four President Trustees: a President and Vice President from each university, elected by cross-campus ballot. These are student leaders who have either just finished their degree or take a sabbatical to take up this role, in which they are also a full-time employee. Term: one year, maximum of two terms.
• Four Student Trustees: two from each university, appointed via the Appointments Committee. These are current students who offer direct insight into university life. Term: two years, maximum of two terms.
• Four Lay Trustees: appointed via the Appointments Committee. These trustees offer expertise, continuity, and insight. They are experienced, skilled members who enjoy being part of a dynamic board and supporting the younger trustees. Term: three years, maximum of three terms.
The Chair of the Board will always be a President Trustee, and the Deputy Chair will always be a Lay Trustee. Any Trustee can chair one of our three sub-committees: Finance, Appointments, Remuneration and Human Resources.
Why Should You Become a Trustee?
Being a Trustee is a valuable and rewarding experience. You’ll get to make a lasting difference to the lives of our students, and influence how the Union is run. You will use your skills, knowledge, and experience to support the Board in reaching sound decisions. You will be involved in leading discussions, making collective decisions, and identifying key issues. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and support our President and Student Trustees. As a Lay Trustee, you are eligible to become Deputy Chair of the Board, or Chair of one of the sub-committees.
You will receive comprehensive induction training, and further training relevant to your role as a Chair or member of a sub-committee.
Job Description
We’re looking for someone to work collectively with our board of trustees to provide support and strategic direction to our Students’ Union.
Remuneration: Lay Trustees are voluntary, unpaid roles. However, all reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed, such as travel costs to board meetings.
Hours: Hours can vary however typically each year:
• Four Board of Trustees meetings – each meeting is around three hours long conducted online.
• Additional two (eight for Finance) sub-committees meetings conducted online – each meeting is around 45 minutes.
• There are usually one or two in-person events per year including a Board of Trustees meeting – each event is usually a day and/or an evening event. These are delivered in Cornwall (expenses paid).
Term of office: three years, up to three terms.
Location: Homebased with one or two in-person events in Cornwall per year.
Role Purpose
The Trustees are ultimately responsible, individually and collectively, for all activity within the SU. The Board is legally responsible for our staff, finances, risk management and reputation. The Board is responsible for setting the vision and values of the organisation and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose. The Trustees ensure development of and agree a long-term strategy. They approve and monitor plans to deliver the strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
• To ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose, constitution and other governing documents and relevant legislation while remaining true to its Mission, Vision and Values.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role by determining the Students’ Union strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Ensure The SU uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects/purpose.
• Act as guardians of The SU’s assets and ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand, scrutinising information and be able to discuss issues.
• Take advice on matters on which you are not competent to decide.
• Provide support to President Trustees and Student Trustees.
• Take part in Board Reviews and Skills Audits each year.
• Use personal skills and experience to ensure the Union is well-run and efficient
• Seek external professional advice where there may be material risk to the Union or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties or at any other appropriate moment.
• Add value to the Trustee Board and the Union through generating ideas, challenging the status quo, broadening thinking and supporting and promoting innovation and creativity.
• Abide by the Union Trustee Code of Conduct.
CRITERIA
All Trustees must display the following characteristics
Commitment to and passion for The SU.
Willingness and reliability to devote the necessary time and effort.
Strategic vision.
Good, independent judgment.
Ability to think creatively.
An understanding of and commitment to the values and principles of student representation and democracy.
Willingness to speak their mind.
Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
Responsible, especially when handling sensitive and confidential information.
A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service.
We are looking for individuals who have skills, knowledge or experience in one or more of these sectors
Finance
Higher Education
Human Resources
Charity or Employment Law
How To Apply
Please visit the role posting on our website for further details on how to apply. We require the completion of a Person Details form, and Skills Audit spreadsheets, along with your CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, an additional slot is also available on Thursday 22 May if this is not convenient.
You must be available to attend Trustee Training on Friday 20 June, and Board of Trustees on Wednesday 25 June (as an observer), both online via MS Teams. Your term of office will start on Tuesday 1 July.
Eligibility
There are strict conditions placed on charity Trustees by law and all applicants must declare that they are eligible to become a charity Trustee. You will not be eligible if:
• You are on the Sex Offenders’ Register
• You have any unspent conviction for an offence involving:
o deception or dishonesty
o terrorist offences
o money laundering
o bribery
o misconduct in public office, perjury, perverting the course of justice
o contravention of certain preventative Orders of the Charity Commission (Section 77 of the Charities Act 2011)
o attempting, aiding or abetting the above offences
• You have any designation under specific anti-terrorist legislation
• You have been convicted of contempt of court
• You have been removed from:
o trusteeship, or as an officer, agent or employee of a charity by the Court or the Commission for misconduct or mismanagement
o a position of management or control of a charity in Scotland for mismanagement or misconduct
• You have been found guilty by the High court of disobeying a Commission order or direction
• You have an undischarged bankruptcy
• You have a composition or arrangement with creditors which includes an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) and is currently on the Insolvency Service Register
As part of the recruitment process, we will ask you to sign a declaration that you are legally entitled to become a Trustee and commit the required time.
Data Protection
We’re committed to data protection and it’s important to know what’s happening with your data when you apply for a role. That means we’ll only use the information you supply for the purposes of progressing your application (or to fulfil legal or regulatory requirements if necessary) and we’ll never share your information with any third parties for marketing purposes or store it outside of the European Economic Area.
Equal Opportunities
We’re committed to ensuring our workforce accurately reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We positively encourage applications from all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, home country, ethnic background, sexuality, religious beliefs or disability. All candidates will be treated equally and all appointments made on merit.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Atkinson HR are proud to be partnering with The University of Suffolk Students' Union (UoSSU) to recruit three new trustees to their Board.
UoSSU is entering a pivotal phase in their journey. Having navigated significant changes, they are now focused on establishing strong foundations to ensure long-term health and success.
They’re seeking committed individuals to join a skilled and dedicated Board in guiding the next chapter of UoSSU’s development. If you have experience in HR, Strategy or Business Development and are eager to engage with the complexities of higher education and students' unions, this role is for you!
About UoSSU
The University of Suffolk Students’ Union is the independent representative body for students at the University of Suffolk. They exist to empower students, enhance their university experience, and support their personal and professional growth. They work to provide academic representation, welfare services, student activities, and opportunities for leadership and development.
The Role
As a trustee, you will help oversee the strategic direction, financial health, and overall governance of the Students’ Union. You will ensure that they continue to deliver meaningful impact while remaining financially sustainable and well-managed.
Key responsibilities of the role include:
-
Ensuring UoSSU operates in line with its mission and values.
-
Overseeing financial management and legal compliance.
-
Supporting the development and implementation of UoSSU’s strategic plan.
-
Bringing your skills and experience to support and challenge the executive team.
-
Acting in the best interests of students, ensuring their voices are at the heart of everything the Students’ Union does.
Candidate Profile
UoSSU welcome applications from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You don't need previous trustee experience— just a commitment to making a difference.
We’re particularly keen to hear from people with expertise in:
-
HR
-
Strategy
-
Business Development
If you’re passionate about people, purposeful work, and the potential of medium-sized charities to do amazing things, we’d love to hear from you.
A diverse Board is key to UoSSU’s strength, and they actively encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.
Time Commitment & Benefits
-
The time commitment expected of this role is approximately 10 days per year.
-
The Board meets approximately four times per year, with occasional additional commitments. You will also be expected to attend board subcommittee meetings.
-
This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
-
A unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, expand your professional network, and contribute to student life at the University of Suffolk.
How to Apply
Please click 'apply now' or contact Atkinson HR via the email address in the job pack if you have any queries or would like to arrange an informal discussion.
Key Dates
-
Closing Date: Tuesday 27th May 2025
-
Interviews: Wednesday 4th June & Wednesday 18th June 2025
-
Induction: Week commencing 23rd June 2025
RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.
We are seeking a qualified and practicing legal professional to join our Board and provide legal insight, ideally with a minimum 10 years post qualification experience. You don’t necessarily need to be a specialist in healthcare, but an understanding of legal risk, charity law, commercial, governance, or regulatory frameworks would be valuable.
You will help ensure that we fulfil our legal duties as a charity, protect our interests, and make well-informed decisions—particularly when reviewing policies, commercial agreements, or collaborations with our NHS partners and other bodies. Crucially you will advise the CEO and Board of Trustees when seeking external professional legal advice.
Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.
What’s in it for the volunteer?
You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.
Time commitment
- Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
- Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
- The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.
How to apply
Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.
RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.
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.
Vice Chair of Trustees - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!
At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Vice Chair of Trustees to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country.
We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you.
Who We're Looking For:
We are looking to recruit a Vice Chair who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve.
As Vice Chair Trustee, You Will:
-
Collaborate with the Chair to steer the direction of the organisation and chair meetings in the Chair’s absence.
-
Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation
-
Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity.
-
Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose.
-
Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability.
-
Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team
-
Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts.
What We Offer:
-
Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need.
-
Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks.
-
Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.
-
Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us.
Expectations:
-
Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role
-
Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely.
-
Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work.
-
External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually.
-
Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work.
If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you!
To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!
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!
Lay Trustee
Voluntary
20-25 hours per year
3-year term of office (maximum of 2 terms)
Would you like play an important role in supporting our Executive to continuously improve our organisation, to navigate the current financial climate and challenges in higher education, and to maintain excellent services to students (our members)?
Worcester Students’ Union (WSU) is a registered charity (number 1145192) and a membership organisation, with its primary object being the advancement of education of students at the University of Worcester. The Union aims to achieve this through:
- representing students’ interests and welfare
- being the recognised representative channel between students, the University, and external stakeholders, and by
- providing social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities for students.
WSU is an unincorporated company with a Board of Trustees comprising of three Officer Trustees (the Full-time, elected Officers), up to four Student Trustees, and up to four Lay Trustees. The Board is responsible for the oversight of the Union’s governance, strategy, and financial sustainability. The post of Lay Trustee has a 3-year term and post holders may serve a maximum of two terms, either consecutively or non-consecutively.
We pride ourselves on providing a range of excellent services to students, having a strong reputation nationally, and going above and beyond for students to make a difference. As a team, we are determined to constantly evolve with the help of our dynamic and committed staff, who are working to our new Strategic Framework for 2023-28, which you can find on the WSU's website under the About Us section.
This is a very important time for WSU as we manage the challenges posed by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the well-documented difficulties being experienced by higher education providers. We must support the needs of a diverse and ever-changing student body across multiple campuses, with less resource and pressure to diversify income streams.
Students’ Unions are unique organisations where change is the norm and where students are at the heart of strategy and decision-making. They deliver a wide range of services in a passionate, cost-effective, and professional way and are necessarily responsible, vibrant, and fast-paced. Becoming a Trustee of a Union is an excellent way of providing support and guidance whilst gaining personal knowledge and satisfaction. We have an excellent Board and currently have a vacancy for a Trustee with experience of charity/organisational senior management (Director/CEO etc.) and/or business development.
There are 5 full Board meetings per year and, also, 5 meetings of the two Sub Committees of the Board. We estimate that time to attend meetings (we ask that Lay Trustees sit on one Sub Committee), as well as time to prepare and read papers and liaise with the Chief Executive, totals between 20 to 25 hours per year. Meetings are on-line and so we welcome applications from further afield.
WSU recognises the value of difference and is committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religious belief, age, marital status or disability, or any other individual characteristic or intersectionality of different characteristics.
We want to support a diverse and inclusive environment as we believe it makes a team more effective and are actively looking for people who share our values. You can see our work as an organisation and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion by visiting the About Us section of the WSU's website.
To maintain our independence from the University of Worcester, and to ensure a balance to the student membership of the Board, we cannot consider applications for the role of external trustee from current registered students of the University of Worcester. Alumni are not eligible to be Trustees until at least five years after graduation.
To avoid potential conflicts of interest, applications also cannot be considered from individuals who are employees of either the University of Worcester or Worcester Students’ Union.
Testimonial from one of our current Lay Trustees:
"As a Trustee I have been able to share my knowledge of the voluntary sector to support WSU, but it has also been an opportunity for me to develop professionally, through broadening my understanding and learning from others. When I first became a Trustee, I was in a Business Development role, but through the experience I have gained, it has helped me to progress my career, now as a Managing Director of a local VCSE organisation."
How to apply:
- To apply for this position, please follow the link to our website to read through the information pack and obtain the application form for this role.
- The Appointments Panel aim to hold interviews on-line during June 2025, with the aim of the successful candidate being inducted ready to commence their role in September 2025.
- If you would like an informal chat about the role, please contact the Chief Executive, Sophie Williams, via the email provided in the vacancy listing on our website.
Thank you for your time and we very much look forward to hearing from you.
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!
About the Treasurer Trustee Role
Role Overview
The Treasurer plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health, stability, and accountability of Rebuilding Lives UK. They oversee financial strategy, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and provide guidance on long-term financial sustainability. The Treasurer ensures that financial risks are identified and managed appropriately while making financial information accessible to the board. Trustees are expected to be actively involved in the charity’s work, providing hands-on support where appropriate.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure financial policies and procedures are followed and regularly reviewed.
- Oversee budgets, financial reporting, and compliance with legal requirements.
- Support financial decision-making and long-term financial planning.
- Work closely with auditors and external financial advisors.
- Monitor financial health, ensuring reserves are maintained and risks mitigated.
- Present financial reports to the board in an accessible, non-technical manner.
- Assist in fundraising strategy development and grant applications where necessary.
- Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering financial guidance beyond governance.
- Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.
Who We Are Looking For
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Experience in finance, accounting, or financial management.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Knowledge of charity financial regulations.
- Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance specialists.
What You’ll Gain from This Role
Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:
- Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
- Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
- Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
- Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
- Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
- Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.
Mandatory Training Requirement
The Treasurer must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.
Terms of Appointment
Trustees serve an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.
Voluntary Role
All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.
This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
Time Commitment:
- 8 hours per month, including:
- Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
- Active involvement in governance and decision-making processes.
- Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
- Engagement in charity activities beyond board meetings, as appropriate.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.