Finance volunteer volunteer roles in birmingham
As exciting plans for a new National Centre for Music (NCM) at Edinburgh's former Royal High School progress, we are searching for a Chair and Board of Trustees to help bring this iconic, cultural destination to life.
From our home in the former Royal High School building on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, the National Centre for Music will become an energising force in Scotland’s music sector. Through a variety of programmes and partnerships, the centre will nurture and celebrate music making from across Scotland. It will present a striking programme of music – across all genres – for audiences to enjoy within a spectacular location, as well as supporting artists and organisations to develop new projects, skills, networks and profile. Nestled within two acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, the centre will be open every day for people to enjoy and expand their musical passions.
We are looking for around four new trustees, including a Chair, to work closely with our executive team to develop and launch the organisation - defining the brand, setting the business model and staff team, establishing business partnerships and ensuring integration and collaboration with the music sector, as well as with Edinburgh and Scotland’s wider cultural infrastructure.
During these early years, there is expected to be five board meetings per year, plus one strategy development day. Given the nature of the project, it’s hoped trustees will offer their expertise in leading working groups and attending workshops.
As we launch ourselves as a new national player, we need fresh entrepreneurial thinking to build an innovative, resilient organisation. We are particularly seeking candidates with expertise in:
- Business development
- Brand and marketing
- EDI (Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion)
- Finance
We also want to ensure the music community at large feels represented in our governance and welcome applications from musicians. So whether you’re an experienced Trustee or someone who has never been on a board before, if you have first-hand knowledge of the music sector in Scotland or feel truly passionate about what we’re trying to achieve, we’d love to hear from you – and we’ll make sure you feel welcome and supported.
To create a nurturing and inspiring environment where Scotland's musical history is made.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Introduction
Do you care about the future of the countryside in North and East Yorkshire? Do you have skills and experience in supporter development/fundraising that you could bring to our work? CPRE North and East Yorkshire are looking for a Trustee and Supporter Development Lead to contribute to our important work protecting our beautiful local countryside and green spaces.
Who we are
CPRE campaigns nationally and locally for positive solutions which safeguard the long-term future of our precious countryside. At national level, the charity produces in-depth research and sound arguments to press government, Parliament and other decision-makers to support our countryside, be it national landscapes or simply much loved local green spaces, through policies which ensure:
- The right development in the right place
- Active support to improve biodiversity and
- Countryside protection from climate change impacts and contribution to climate change solutions.
Here in North and East Yorkshire, the largest of the CPRE regions (6,900 square miles!), we have a successful track record of enabling residents and community groups to help shape development in ways that enrich the countryside around them. We also use our planning expertise to proactively campaign for local authority planning policies that safeguard and enhance our beautiful and varied landscapes.
The role
Our small but energetic team of volunteer Trustees enable people to protect the countryside they love and enjoy the benefits it brings wherever they live. But with your support we can do even more!
In joining us as a Trustee on the Board you’ll have a general role in developing the charity in line with our strategy and, together with other Trustees, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and other legal and governance regulations. However additionally as our Lead for Supporter Development you will use your specialist knowledge to inform and guide the Trustee Board in this area and coordinate and drive forward related activities to meet agreed aims. As part of this remit, you will also oversee the recruitment of a Communications and Supporter Care Officer (a brand new role) and have ongoing responsibility for communicating organisational requirements and providing feedback to the individual once engaged.
+Trustees initially serve a three-year term and may serve up to six years in total.
What we need and what’s in it for you
You don’t need to have prior Trustee experience but we are looking for applicants with manager/senior level expertise in Supporter Development/Fundraising. By volunteering with us you’ll be using what you know to help find positive solutions for the major issues facing the countryside and the environment as well as being part of a group of people who share your passion for the countryside. Our friendly team will provide you with initial training and support to develop in your role. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience in charity governance and leadership. Further information on role responsibilities and our skill requirements are provided in the supplementary documents available on our application website CPRENEY.
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!
Youth Action Alliance (YAA) is seeking a dynamic and well-connected individual to take on the role of a Philanthropic Development Lead from March 2025. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and influential leader to drive our fundraising efforts and expand our network of high-net-worth individuals, corporate partners, trusts, and foundations.
We are expanding our donation efforts and are seeking a dedicated volunteer to help us achieve our vision of becoming a trusted charitable organisation for philanthropists and corporate partners. This is the ideal fit for someone with deep connections in the local area wanting to help their less fortunate neighbours.
About the Role
As a Lead, you will play a pivotal role in strengthening YAA’s donor network, leveraging your expertise, connections, and influence to help us grow our income and increase our impact. Unlike Trustees, the Philanthropic Development Lead will not hold governance responsibilities; instead, they focus solely on supporting fundraising efforts.
Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. Our volunteers are essential in supporting the growth of our charity and bringing our mission to life.
Key Responsibilities:
● Lead and energise our ‘Friends of YAA’ initiative, engaging donors and stakeholders.
● Cultivate relationships with corporate sponsors, philanthropic foundations, and high-net-worth individuals to secure funding.
● Advocate for YAA’s mission, articulating our strong return on investment and impact to potential supporters.
● Attend networking events and donor engagement opportunities.
● Provide strategic guidance on fundraising approaches, identifying opportunities for sustainable financial growth.
Who We’re Looking For:
● A well-connected individual with deep knowledge of RBKC and its philanthropic landscape.
● A charismatic and strategic leader with experience in fundraising, corporate engagement, or development.
● Someone with a strong interest in youth and community development and a passion for social impact.
● A professional with a background in business, finance, philanthropy, or non-profit leadership.
Why Join Us?
This role offers an incredible opportunity to drive meaningful change, working alongside a dedicated team committed to empowering young people. YAA provides exceptional value for money and measurable impact, making this a unique chance to champion a cause that positively impacts young people's lives and truly delivers results.
To express your interest, Please click on the 'How to the Apply' Button
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Introduction
Do you care about the future of the countryside in North and East Yorkshire? Do you have skills and experience in in policy development in or for Local Authorities that you could bring to our work? CPRE North and East Yorkshire are looking for a Trustee and Local Authority Communications Lead to contribute to our important work protecting our beautiful local countryside and green spaces.
Who we are
CPRE campaigns nationally and locally for positive solutions which safeguard the long-term future of our precious countryside which is facing multiple threats. At national level, the charity produces in-depth research and sound arguments to press government, Parliament and other decision-makers to support our countryside, be it national landscapes or simply much loved local green spaces, through policies which ensure:
- The right development in the right place
- Active support to improve biodiversity and
- Countryside protection from climate change impacts and contribution to climate change solutions.
Here in North and East Yorkshire, the largest of the CPRE regions (6,900 square miles!), we have a successful track record of enabling residents and community groups to help shape development in ways that enrich the countryside around them. We also use our planning expertise to proactively campaign for local authority planning policies that safeguard and enhance our beautiful and varied landscapes.
The role
Our small but energetic team of volunteer Trustees enable people to protect the countryside they love and enjoy the benefits it brings wherever they live. But with your support we can do even more!
In joining us as a Trustee on the Board you’ll have a general role in developing the charity in line with our strategy and, together with other Trustees, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and other legal and governance regulations. However additionally as our Lead for Local Authority Communications you will use your particular knowledge of policy development in this arena to inform and guide the Trustee Board on Local Authority campaigning and coordinate and drive forward related activities to meet agreed aims.
+Trustees initially serve a three-year term and may serve up to six years in total.
What we need and what’s in it for you
You don’t need to have prior Trustee experience but we are looking for applicants with manager/senior level experience in policy development in Local Authorities and/or as policy advisor to Local Authorities. By volunteering with us you’ll be using what you know to help find positive solutions for the major issues facing the countryside and the environment as well as being part of a group of people who share your passion for the countryside. Our friendly team will provide you with initial training and support to develop in your role. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience in charity governance and leadership. Further information on role responsibilities and our skill requirements are provided in the supplementary documents available on our application website, CPRENEY.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking to recruit 2 new trustees. We are looking to diversify the experience and expertise of our Board, and we believe that there are people out there who have knowledge, skills and passion in different areas that will help SWWB. Areas for organisational development include:
· Embedding lived experience expertise into the design, delivery and evaluation of our work
· Developing our campaigning and strategic work
· Building up our social media and comms presence
· Stepping up our fundraising game
If you think you can help with any of these things (or something else), and you are interested in being a trustee, please get in touch, we would love to hear from you!
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!
Trustees, Committee Co-optees, and Directors
Help Shape the Future of a Leading Disability Charity in Birmingham
Who We Are
Queen Alexandra Charity (QAC), based in Birmingham, supports people with learning difficulties, disabilities and other complex needs through a wide range of life-changing services. These are
- College – Specialist further education for 400+ students with over 450 staff
- Community Services – Outreach, day opportunities, and local support
- Residential Services – Supported living, respite and educational placements
- QAC Enterprises Ltd, our trading subsidiary, which produces accessible format services, All Formats®; owns Sight Village® exhibitions and generates income to support our charitable mission.
Why Join Now?
- QAC is embarking on one of the most ambitious and exciting developments in its history: a major redevelopment of our Birmingham site over the next decade, creating new, inclusive spaces to enable us to support significantly more people with complex needs.
- This is a rare opportunity to be part of a once-in-a-generation transformation. As a trustee, co-optee, or director, you will help shape the future of a well-established, values-led charity with a national reputation.
Opportunities to Get Involved
We are looking for individuals to strengthen our governance and bring expertise, insight and energy to become
- Trustees – Provide strategic oversight across QAC’s charitable activities, with optional involvement in sub-committees and occasional site visits
- Committee Co-optees – Bring your specialist knowledge to one of our governance committees (Audit; Curriculum & Quality; Governance; Resources; Remuneration)
- Directors (QAC Enterprises Ltd) – Join the board of our trading subsidiary, helping it grow sustainably and support the wider charity.
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome expressions of interest from individuals who are passionate about inclusion and want to use their skills to make a real difference.
You don’t need previous board experience—but we are looking for people who can bring real value to our experienced and high-performing executive team. That might include
- Property, estates management, or capital development
- Specialist education and SEND leadership
- Business growth, social enterprise, or trading subsidiary leadership
- Finance or charity accounting
- Governance of strategic planning during periods of organisational change.
We are also keen to hear from those with lived experience of disability, and we are committed to ensuring our Board reflects the diversity of the people we serve.
What We Offer
In return, we offer a structured induction, a supportive and inclusive Board, and the chance to be part of a leadership team helping shape the next decade of QAC. Our Director of Governance is also on hand to support your journey and development.
This is a voluntary role with reasonable expenses covered.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
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!
Job description
"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".
Quilombo UK is looking for Legal Assistant, who would love to join a growing organization. Quilombo UK works with the objective to promote different arts, sports and cultures to encourage an intercultural understanding between different communities and societies; To promote cultural awareness in the community and educate, regardless of nationality or origin, about race diversity and mutual respect; To promote good health and wellbeing; and run a community organisation with a strong focus on individuals, the community and society as a whole.
Quilombo UK is looking to recruit a Legal Assistant who helps organization in various legal matters.
This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; develop their skills and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'. The role provides you flexibility and autonomy at work. This will further help you to develop your professional development programme (PDP). Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.
Main Responsibilities
- We are looking for an experienced lawyer to assist the organisation in overlooking projects, ensuring they are compliant with relevant and up to date legislation and regulations.
- The legal assistant will be responsible for making sure all contracts, legislations and documents are treated within correct legal standards. They are to make sure that all activities are being performed in line with contracts and the law.
- The Legal Assistant will work closely with the HR department in overlooking the volunteer forms, legislations and documents. They should also assist the different departments within the organisation(Marketing, Funding, HR, Finance) in upholding the legal requirements needed to run the tasks that they do.
- Provide written reports as and when required. To undertake additional duties as required for the role.
General tasks
- Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.
Essential
- Well-organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
- Excellent researching skills
- Reading and report writing skills
- You will need to be an experienced lawyer or have a good legal understanding.
- You will be respectful of the confidentiality of the organisation.
- You will need to help deliver work that adheres to the key objectives of the organisation.
- Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.
- Good time-management & communication skills.
- To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
- Strong team player
- Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.
Desirable
- Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
- Can work without much supervision
The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday to Friday.
Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.
Job Type: Volunteer
Benefits:
- Work from home
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Experience:
- Legal Secretary: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: Remote
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re looking for a new fundraising volunteer and/or director! Are you passionate about securing funds for grassroot organisations?
This opportunity involves overseeing Fuel Poverty Action’s fundraising plans and strategy, reaching out to donors and promoting our vital campaigns through grant bids to help end fuel poverty in the UK.
This role would require an average of 16-20 hrs per month and can be done remotely. We are also open to you joining FPA’s board of directors, subject to capacity and experience.
This offers a chance to directly contribute to tackling fuel poverty and ensuring access to affordable energy for all whilst strategizing and learning alongside great activists. If you're eager to contribute, we’d love to hear from you!
Tasks:
-
Organise and manage our fundraising planning and pipeline
-
Reach out to potential donors and help build relationships
-
Lead on grant applications
-
Work closely with the team to develop new fundraising strategies
-
Contribute ideas and experience to FPA campaigns
Closing date for applications: April 20th 2025
We want warm, safe homes on a flourishing planet, where everyone has enough and resources are justly shared

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!
Purpose of the Role:
As a Trustee of SAPHNA, you will play a vital role in ensuring the organisation achieves its mission to promote excellence in school and public health nursing. Trustees are responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction, and financial sustainability of SAPHNA.
Key Responsibilities:
- Contribute actively to the Board’s strategic decision-making and direction.
- Ensure SAPHNA complies with its governing document, charity law, and relevant regulations.
- Uphold SAPHNA’s values and promote its objectives.
- Provide guidance and expertise to support SAPHNA's development and growth.
- Oversee SAPHNA’s financial stability, approving budgets and ensuring resources are used effectively.
- Attend and actively participate in Board meetings (approximately four per year) and contribute to subcommittees or working groups as required.
- Support fundraising, partnerships, and advocacy activities where appropriate.
- Act as an ambassador for SAPHNA, representing the organisation to stakeholders.
Person Specification:
- A commitment to SAPHNA’s mission, vision, and values.
- Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
- Effective communication skills and a collaborative approach.
- Experience in governance, leadership, or relevant professional expertise.
- Knowledge of school and public health nursing or the broader healthcare landscape (desirable but not essential).
Time Commitment:
Trustees are required to attend quarterly Board meetings, participation in working groups or committees, and occasional representation of SAPHNA at events.
Please send a covering letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role.
To achieve equality and excellence in school nursing practice leading to improve health outcomes & reduce health inequalities for school aged children




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
If you want to make a difference to people living with a mental health condition then we’d love to hear from you!
About us
At The Mental Health Community we use our lived experience to build understanding and support for what it’s like to live and work alongside managing a mental health condition.
We know that it can be difficult to get, or keep a job if your energy levels, how you’re feeling and your ability to go to a place of work every day are affected by a mental health condition like anxiety or depression. But we also know that having a sense of purpose and belonging can really help with the symptoms and impact that mental health conditions can have on you.
Our work is focused on helping people with a mental health condition who are in work or looking for work. We do this by supporting businesses to improve how they look after people, because we know that by creating inclusive and safe spaces at work we make it possible for people with mental ill health to stay in the workplace which helps keep them well and benefits the businesses too.
By joining our board you will be:
- Making a lasting impact by helping us make more workplaces safe and inclusive for people with a mental health condition
- Shaping the future of our charity as we expand our services and reach more people who need our support
- Using your skills and experience for good by helping guide the strategic direction of our charity.
What we’re looking for
We are looking for at least 4 new trustees to join our team. Whatever your skillset, we’d love to hear from you and there are some areas where we need particular help:
· Treasurer: oversee our financial health, provide guidance on building long term financial plans to help us grow and ensure appropriate financial management.
· Marketing and Communications: strategic oversight of our marketing and communications, raising awareness of our work and reaching new audiences through digital strategies and media engagement.
· Fundraising: develop our fundraising strategy and income streams, including grant applications, corporate sponsorship and campaigns.
· Governance: guide us in operating transparently and effectively whilst maintaining high standards of governance in compliance with our governing document and charity law.
We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental ill health, young people aged 18-30, people of all socio-economic backgrounds, genders and people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.
About the role
As a board of trustees we meet remotely every 6 weeks, there may be some activity in between meetings so the estimated total time commitment is 4 hours every 6 weeks.
In addition to using your specific skills to develop how we work, all trustees share responsibility for:
· Developing our activities to help us achieve our purpose and positive impact,
· Making sure we are compliant with our governing document and the requirements of the Charity Commission, and
· Being an active member of the board to help us make good decisions
What you can expect from us
We are committed to supporting our Trustees: you can expect an induction to the organisation and trustee role plus any additional conversations and support you need to help you feel confident in your role.
Our meetings are relaxed and informal; there are no expectations of ‘business clothes’, technical jargon or having all the answers.
We welcome and support your preferences for the way we work together, how you like to receive information and how we can make it easier for you to participate actively in our discussions.
One more thing
We know that great trustees come from many backgrounds and with a variety of experiences and that’s great - we really value people who bring different perspectives and add new voices to our team.
But you might not feel you ‘check all the boxes’ as you read this advert or the role description, especially if you’ve been marginalised or excluded. We get it, and we’ve felt like that too. But we hope you’ll apply anyway because we’d love to hear from you and will take care to help you feel welcome and included.
For more information on the role please see the role description.
We welcome and support your preferences for how you like to receive information and how we can make it easier for you to apply.
If you prefer to apply in a different way e.g. through a conversation or submitting a short video please contact us and we can arrange it.
If you need any adjustments during the application process please let us know and we'll do our very best to accommodate them.
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 Chair for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation was established as an educational charity in 2003. Our aim is to develop spiritual awareness and to support people of all faiths, and none, by delivering a range of training programmes that allow open-hearted adults to serve their chosen communities through Ministry, Spiritual Counselling and in supporting life’s transitions. Our interfaith ministers bring unconditional love and radical commitment to members of the public through ceremony, ritual, spiritual counselling, and other methods of support.
We are seeking new trustees, with a focus on marketing and/or legal experience, with a commitment to the vision and purpose of the organisation to join our board. Trustees are appointed for a term of 4 years and are essential to the progress and growth of our organisation.
Organisational purpose:
To benefit the public by the education of mature adults in:
• the core principles of the world’s religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions;
• principles and methods of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace-making;
• and the practice of non-denominational spiritual and pastoral service in the community.
Our Vision
is a world in which humanity awakens into an inclusive global spirituality that encompasses us all in the field of love and life.
Our Mission
is to work towards evolving consciousness in the world, by facilitating open-hearted people to awaken to inner leadership and their capacity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace-making.
Ideally, you will have experience working in a not-for-profit organisation and will be passionate about spiritual life and faith-freedom. We would particularly love to hear from anyone with experience of Human Resources, Adult Education, Financial Management, Fundraising, Legal, and IT.
Formal trustee meetings take place with senior staff quarterly, and we hold up to nine trustee-only meetings annually. To ensure our work is collaborative, we also have an annual two-day gathering of trustees and the wider leadership team. All trustees are volunteers, with expenses available for travel to and from meetings and other incidental expenses where applicable. Please note that meetings are currently being held via Zoom.
We have a strong commitment to diversity and aim to reflect the diversity of the communities we work with on our Board of Trustees. We welcome all candidates irrespective of sex, gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, culture, religion, age, responsibilities for dependants, physical/mental disability (“protected characteristics” as per the Equality Act 2010), economic status or offending background.
We welcome both OneSpirit ministers and candidates who are not OneSpirit ministers. However, we expect all candidates to adhere to OneSpirit’s code of ethics.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you for your interest in the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees at Music For Youth (MFY); a national youth music charity that provides life-changing musical experiences for young people aged 25 and under.
Music for Youth brings together over 40,000 young people a year to perform in live music festivals and concerts across the UK. The charity uniquely provides open access to young people, from whatever background or ability, to perform live to audiences: from grass-roots community halls to the Royal Albert Hall. We develop their musicianship, showcasing the richness and diversity of their music through our impactful live performance and development programmes. The wider social and life skills developed by participating in our events benefits all who take part and propels some of the UK's most promising young musicians onto career-changing platforms.
Our vision is to ensure that every young person in the UK can achieve their musical potential by performing the music they love. We believe that music, and the chance to participate in high-quality musical activities, should be open to every young person.
As Chair, you will guide a committed and experienced Board of Trustees, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to drive strategic growth, strengthen partnerships, and champion our cause at the highest levels.
This is a crucial time for Music For Youth, as we navigate a changing funding landscape and continue to innovate to reach even more young people.
If you are an experienced leader with a passion for the vision, mission, impact and potential of this unique organisation, we would love to hear from you.
About Us
Who We Are
Music For Youth is a national youth music charity that works with schools, youth groups, music hubs, and community organisations to break down barriers to music-making and showcase the incredible talent of young musicians.
Our Programmes and Impact
Each year, Music For Youth reaches over 40,000 young people across the UK, offering them platforms to develop their musical talents across all music genres, and gain confidence. Many of our alumni have gone on to successful careers in the music industry and beyond.
National Music Festivals and Concerts:
We produce and stage high-quality professional standard live music events (including gigs, concerts, and festivals) for young musicians, both regionally at grass roots level, and at the UK’s most prestigious live music venues.
Young Artist Development:
We nurture and develop young musicians so they can realise their musical potential, by initiating adventurous collaborations, commissioning new music, and providing a robust music mentoring programme.
Creative Skills Development:
We provide skills and training development for young people looking for a career in the creative industries in non-performance and stagecraft roles such as stage management, sound engineering, lighting and digital production skills.
Advocacy for Young Musicians:
We campaign to highlight the brilliance of young musicians.
Our work takes place across the whole of the UK with events in all nine regions of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This coverage enables us to support and tour the work of other partner organisations so they can reach young people further afield.
For over 50 years, Music for Youth’s annual cycle of regional festivals, local events, a national festival and showcase concerts has made a significant contribution to the music education calendar, bringing together regional providers and young performers, and putting young people’s own achievements into a wider national context:
The Music for Youth Regional Festival is a collection of festivals across the UK aimed to inspire musicians at every level of experience and across every genre of music. This collection of regional festivals forms the UK’s largest festival for young musicians. 30,000 musicians take part every year and many go on to perform again at the Music for Youth National Festival and Music for Youth Proms.
The National Festival is a coming together of musicians, bands and ensembles from across the regions to perform on world-class stages including Symphony Hall, and the CBSO Centre. It is a key date in the Music for Youth calendar, hosted by the city of Birmingham in July. Over 12,000 young musicians aged 4-21 from across the UK take part, featuring all styles, instruments and genres of music.
The Music for Youth Proms takes place at the renowned Royal Albert Hall in London. This two-day showcase celebrates the incredible diversity, talent and creativity of young musicians from all corners of the UK. From orchestral ensembles to choirs, bands, soloists, and more, these talented young performers get the unique opportunity to showcase their skills and share their music with a wider audience.
Staff and Head Office
Given the charity’s national reach, the head office recently relocated from London to Birmingham, now based in CBSO Centre (City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) close to the city centre. The staff team of seven permanent staff are based across the UK, with hybrid home / office working arrangements.
Board and Governance
There are nine Trustees, each co-opted on to one (or more) subcommittees: the Audit & Risk Committee, Programmes Committee, and Fundraising Committee.
How Music For Youth is Funded
Music For Youth is one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations, receiving 42% of its funds from the annual grant of £279,980 in 2023/24. In addition, the charity raises income from fundraising (sponsorship, institutions, individuals) totalling 33% of annual turnover £672,938 in 23/24, with 10.6% from earned income including event ticket sales of £71,785 in 2023/24.
The charity’s turnover in 2023/24 was £672,938, ending the year with reserves of £101,224.
For further information, please see our latest Annual Account and Report here.
The Opportunity
We are excited to be seeking our next Chair of Trustees to lead the organisation, as our current Chair, John Dixon, comes to the end of his term of service.
With an energetic, skilled and focused Executive Team led by Phil Castang MBE - and a highly experienced supportive Board of Trustees bringing their wealth of collective experience spanning leadership in music, education, arts, fundraising and industry - now is an exciting time to join this unique national music charity, as we prepare for the next phase of development.
The Chair of the Board of Trustees will provide strategic leadership and governance to Music For Youth, ensuring the organisation is well-managed, financially sustainable, and delivering on its charitable objectives:
Leadership
- Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that it runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions.
- Creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately.
- Provide clear strategic direction for the charity, working with the CEO and Board to set long-term goals.
- Act as an ambassador for MFY as required, promoting our work and advocating for youth music at national and local levels.
- Support MFY in maintaining strong partnerships with funders, arts organisations, schools, and the wider music sector.
Governance & Compliance
- Lead an engaged and effective Board of Trustees, ensuring good governance and compliance with charity law.
- Manage, support and appraise the performance of the CEO, ensuring they and their senior leadership team have the resources and guidance to deliver MFY’s mission.
- Oversee financial sustainability, risk management, and organisational policies.
Fundraising & Advocacy
- Work with the Board and executive team to develop fundraising strategies, securing income from grants, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.
- Represent MFY at high-profile events, engaging with stakeholders and championing the value of youth music.
What we are looking for
As our new Chair, you will share a commitment to the mission of Music For Youth. While it is not essential to be from a Music or Music Education background, we are looking for someone who has passion for the impact - and potential - of the charity and can demonstrate how their experience can help us navigate the pivotal years ahead.
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:
- Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
- Financial literacy
- High level networking and advocacy skills.
- Knowledge of charity and corporate governance.
- Experience and confidence in managing risk, change and innovation.
- Understanding and awareness of broader social, political and economic issues.
In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the following beneficial areas.
- Board membership in the not-for-profit sector
- Working in or with organisations and with individuals in the cultural sector
- Working in or with public bodies or national policy makers
The organisation recently undertook a Skills Audit of the Board and identified the following areas where we are looking to continue strengthening the experience. While not essential for the role of Chair, alongside the core skills and experience outlined, we would certainly welcome individuals who may also be able demonstrate experience around:
Digital: to take advantage of the potential for digital transformation
Finance: to provide additional oversight and financial rigor
Fundraising: with income from individuals a future opportunity to explore further
Time Commitment
The Chair can expect to commit the equivalent of 12-15 days per year at - and in prep for - key Trustee meetings, including full Board Meetings held four times a year (at least one in person in Birmingham, where the charity is headquartered). This time also includes regular meetings with the CEO (the majority online), and regular comms with the CEO as required, which may ebb and flow, depending on the time of year. In person meetings are kept to a minimum.
In addition, the Chair would be expected to attend a minimum of two of our: Regional Festivals (March – April), National Festival (Birmingham or elsewhere, early-mid July) and the Youth Proms (London, end of November), to represent the Board and host key stakeholders, including funders. ,
Term
We are looking for someone who can commit to an initial three-year term, which could then be renewed for a second term.
Learn more and apply
If you would like to have an exploratory conversation with the current Chair or Vice Chair about the charity or the role, please contact John Dixon (current Chair).
Application Process
To apply for the role of Chair at Music For Youth, please submit:
- 1. A CV.
- 2. A cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing:
- Why you are interested in this role.
- How your skills and experience align with MFY’s mission.
- What you would bring to the organisation.
Please send your CV and Cover Letter to Phil Castang (CEO) with the subject line: Application for Chair of Music For Youth.
Deadline for Applications: Friday 27th of June at 12pm.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Music for Youth National Festival taking place between Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th July in Birmingham. (Please note - this is not a requirement of the application process but a chance for you to see the work of the charity in person).
Interviews: will take place on Wednesday 10th September in Birmingham.
The week before the interview (week commencing 1st September), you will have the opportunity to have an informal conversation with the CEO and other Trustees online. Date to be confirmed.
If you have any access needs or other practical questions - or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the role with the Vice Chairs before applying - please get in contact.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.