Legal non executive director volunteer roles

Position: Treasurer (Non-Executive Director)
Location: Remote / UK-based
Time Commitment: Approximately 8–10 days per year
Remuneration: Voluntary role – reasonable expenses reimbursed
Application Deadline: 10 August 2025

The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is a ground-breaking alliance of companies, trade unions and non-governmental organisations working together to improve the lives of workers in international supply chains. ETI’s vision is of a world of work that protects human rights, ensures dignity for all, provides opportunity and is free of exploitation and abuse.

We are currently seeking a qualified and experienced Treasurer to join our Board as a Non-Executive Director. This is a voluntary governance role that plays a key part in overseeing ETI’s financial health and supporting the strategic direction of the organisation.

About the Role

As Treasurer, you will:

• Provide strategic financial oversight and ensure the organisation’s long-term financial viability
• Chair the Finance and Remuneration Sub-Committee
• Oversee budgets, financial reporting, risk management, and compliance
• Work closely with the Chair, CEO, and Senior Finance Manager
• Present key financial reports to the Board and at the Annual General Meeting
• Be available for occasional ad hoc financial advice or input

This role offers the opportunity to shape and strengthen the financial foundation of an organisation that is driving systemic change in global supply chains.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone with:

• A recognised accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
• Substantial experience in senior financial leadership, ideally including as a Treasurer or CFO
• An understanding of financial governance in the not-for-profit or NGO sector
• The confidence to challenge and contribute constructively at Board level
• The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders
• Ideally, experience in international development or ethical trade

Commitment

• Attend four Board meetings annually (virtual or hybrid)
• Chair the Finance and Remuneration Committee (usually two meetings per year)
• Participate in relevant working groups or panels as required
• Engage with senior staff for occasional ad hoc advice

Expenses

This is a voluntary role. However, all Directors are entitled to claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses incurred while carrying out their duties, in line with ETI’s expenses policy.

The Sociological Review Foundation, a registered charity that exists to advance public education on the subject of sociology and related disciplines, is looking to appoint an individual to join the Board of Trustees during an exciting time of organisational growth and development. We are looking to appoint a trustee with experience in fundraising, partnerships and marketing/enterprise development.

What We’re Looking For

We are inviting expressions of interest from individuals who bring experience in one or more of the following:

· Fundraising, philanthropy or donor engagement

· Corporate or academic partnerships

· Social enterprise or charity income generation

· Marketing or strategic communications in the non-profit sector

Your responsibilities as a trustee will include the following:

● To work with other trustees to ensure that the Foundation complies with its articles of association, pursues and works within its mission and charitable objectives, functions within relevant legal and financial requirements, and applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives

● To provide guidance on the Foundation’s fundraising, partnership and income generation strategy in collaboration with the Deputy CEO Fundraising

● To support the development of sustainable funding models and strategic growth initiatives

● To offer insight into market positioning and audience engagement

● To be aware of, and conform to, the responsibilities of a trustee and company director

● To participate in at least three Board meetings each year, as well as the Annual General Meeting. Some of these meetings will take place on Zoom, others in person (in London or other cities in England)

● To commit up to one hour per week on average to the role, including Board meetings

● To play an ambassadorial role and promote the Foundation

● To act in the best interests of the charity and to comply at all times with its policies and procedures.

This is not a paid position; however, travel and any childcare expenses while on trustee business will be covered in line with our expenses claim policy.

Previous experience as a charity trustee is desirable but not essential. You will receive training on the duties and responsibilities of trustees at the beginning of your appointment.

Please note that despite the January deadline on the job description, this role now has a rolling deadline and will be actively interviewing until the position is filled.

About TLC 

The Trans Legal Clinic is the first trans-led specialist gender identity legal practice and registered charity in the UK. The mission of the Trans Legal Clinic is simple; we provide free and accessible legal help to transgender and non-binary people in need. Our overarching vision is a society where all people have access to the legal resources required for gender self-determination and where gender diversity is not just accepted but embraced, with trans* people equipped with the necessary legal tools to navigate the world in their affirmed gender. 

Service Introduction 

The Casework department is the core of our organisation, working directly with clients by offering them support and advocacy. We have assisted over 70 clients since October 2023 and will be re-opening our referrals in January 2025 to new clients seeking our support. 

Our Casework department is divided into four teams. Each team constitutes of one Specialist Caseworker who oversees 5-15 casework volunteers. Our four teams are: 

Housing and Homelessness 

Discrimination 

Gender Recognition: legal transition and healthcare advocacy 

Gender-Based Violence: domestic abuse and hate crime 

Our Gender-Based Violence team provides specialist support to trans* individuals who have experienced hate crime, domestic abuse, and/or sexual violence. We work with compassion and care to empower our clients, often in extremely distressing circumstances, offering practical assistance in navigating the criminal justice system, obtaining protective orders, and accessing support services. Recognising the unique challenges trans* people face in these situations, our team works to address systemic inequalities and ensure that all clients feel safe, heard, and supported throughout their journey to justice and recovery.  

Key tasks and responsibilities 

Support and outreach 

Be fully aware of safeguarding issues and lead on client risk management within the service. 

Update the Gender-Based Violence client database to ensure client records are updated within agreed timeframes and that they accurately record interventions and demonstrate progress. 

Liaise with our team of solicitors when requesting advice and guidance on a case. 

Reach out to organisations that specialise in gender-based violence, especially hate crime, domestic abuse, and/or sexual violence and trans* specific services, to collaborate and share knowledge and resources.

Teamwork 

Lead the Gender-Based Violence team by supervising caseworkers.

Support caseworks by setting clear objectives and holding team and individual supervisions regularly. 

Set and moderate team performance targets. 

Attend department meetings and contribute to discussions. 

Be respectful to colleagues and support good communication between all stakeholders. 

Research 

Create and deliver training for current and future caseworkers in the Gender-Based Violence team. 

Create resources for caseworkers on relevant legislation, case studies, and good practice, to allow them to become more knowledgeable and independent whilst working with clients. 

Create resources for clients and those seeking information on our website about hate crimes, domestic abuse, and sexual violence. 

Conduct general research into hate crimes, domestic abuse, and sexual violence experienced by trans* people in the UK. 

General 

Ensure you approach to contact with clients is trauma-informed and person-centred. 

Adhere to Trans Legal Clinic’s Policies and Procedures at all times. 

Cover for other members of the team and department as necessary. 

Be proactive in reviewing and evaluating own performance and identifying upon areas for improvement and development. 

Undertake any other duties compatible with the level and nature of the role and/or reasonable required by more senior members of staff. 

Attend and participate in external meetings and briefings as required. 

The duties listed are not exhaustive and may be varied from time to time as dictated by the changing needs of the Trans Legal Clinic. The post holder will be expected to undertake other duties as appropriate and as requested by their line manager. 

The Board of Aston Community Education Trust, comprising 12 schools primarily centred in Sheffield, is recruiting up to four new Trustees possessing a range of skills – including finance, risk and audit; marketing; safeguarding, curriculum and standards; and legal/procurement. The Trust supports 5,000 young people and has an annual budget of c.£40 million.

Aston Community Education Trust (ACET) operates 12 schools, primarily based in Sheffield, with offices in Holderness. Established in 2011, ACET was an early adopter of the Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) model. The Trust includes nine primary academies—most of which received ‘Good’ or better ratings in their latest Ofsted inspections—and three secondary academies. Of the secondaries, one is rated ‘Good’ while the other two are judged as ‘Requiring Improvement,’ though both are progressing well according to Ofsted monitoring.

ACET runs an Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) unit at Thurcroft Juniors, which has been rated ‘Outstanding’. From September 2025, all junior schools within the Trust will transition to full primary schools, expanding their intake to include Reception and Key Stage 1 pupils. ACET is a well-established, medium-sized Trust known for its robust leadership and transparent governance, with regular audits and Ofsted reviews publicly shared online. The Trust is firmly embedded in the urban heart of South Yorkshire.

ACET operates under clearly defined Articles of Association and a revised Scheme of Delegation that guides its governance. It maintains strong working relationships with Sheffield, Rotherham, and Derbyshire local authorities. The Trust actively engages with DfE-funded English and Maths Hubs for curriculum and teacher training support.

Its secondary academies collaborate with Wales High School in Rotherham, and all schools participate in teacher training placements for PGCE and QTS qualifications through partnerships with Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield. The primary schools benefit from a collaborative hub model, with professional development and leadership training available across all academies.

Currently, ACET is not seeking immediate expansion in terms of adding new schools to the Trust. The strategic focus is rather on converting its junior schools into full primary settings and strengthening outcomes across its secondary phase. The CEO’s senior leadership team includes a range of school improvement professionals working across both phases, supporting leaders with inspections and improving educational outcomes.

The Trust serves approximately 5,000 pupils and employs around 750 staff. Its academies serve a diverse demographic, predominantly from lower socio-economic areas of Sheffield. Two schools—Listerdale and Waverley Primary Academies—have more balanced socio-economic intakes. A defining characteristic of the Trust is its focus on supporting disadvantaged communities, including families with intergenerational unemployment. The Trust leadership is deeply committed to using education as a transformative tool and views ACET as a central community anchor.

Financially, ACET’s 2023/24 outturn aligned with expectations. All academies operated within their original budgets, and the Trust maintained an annual income of approximately £40 million. The 2023/24 external audit report confirmed ACET’s compliance and effective management of DfE funding. The Trust holds reserves in line with DfE recommendations, indicating prudent financial stewardship. Nonetheless, like many Trusts serving disadvantaged populations, ACET faces growing budgetary pressures. High SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities) needs and poor attendance rates among secondary students are particularly impactful on financial and academic performance.

The Trust’s Requirements

ACET’s Trust Board currently comprises eight Trustees, though several retirements are anticipated within the next year. The Trust aims to recruit at least four new Trustees to maintain governance capacity and expertise. Specifically, the Trust seeks individuals with skills in:

1. finance, risk and audit;
2. marketing;
3. safeguarding, curriculum and standards;
4. legal/procurement.

There may also be a need to appoint a new Chair and Vice Chair within 12 months, so candidates with Board leadership experience and ambition to assume such a role within the Trust are especially welcome.

Succession planning is underway, and the Trust is working to ensure Board resilience during this transition. All Trustees have the option to operate remotely if required.

In terms of governance structure, ACET has four members – an ‘eyes-on, hands-off’ role akin to that of the shareholder – and completed an External Trust Review with the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) in March 2023. A follow-up action plan is currently in progress.

Trustee time commitments are clearly outlined: the full Board meets up to six times per year, while sub-committees meet at least once per term. Trustees usually join one or two committees aligned to their expertise.

Meetings are scheduled for late afternoons and offer both in-person and remote attendance options. Local candidates from Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, or Derbyshire are especially encouraged to apply, provided they bring relevant expertise.

New Trustees will complete a structured induction that includes face-to-face and online sessions, mentoring, and engagement with senior leaders, including the CEO, CFO, and academy heads. Trustees are expected to contribute beyond regular meetings by joining committees, participating in review panels, attending key Trust events, and, where appropriate, helping to appoint senior leaders. Committee meetings are held termly and typically last around two hours.

ACET has a well-developed governance infrastructure. It employs a Lead Governance Professional, a Financial Director, and a team of School Improvement Directors who support the CEO in preparing reports and maintaining oversight. The Trust places high importance on safeguarding and has a dedicated Safeguarding Governance Group led by executive staff and supported by designated safeguarding leads across academies. A safeguarding Trustee is nominated annually, and all Trustees are required to complete safeguarding training and remain familiar with statutory guidance, including the DfE’s Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE). Safeguarding is monitored rigorously, with data shared regularly with the Board and included in the Annual Report.

ACET supports its Trustees through partnerships with the National Governance Association (NGA) and CST, enhancing professional development opportunities. The Trustee role is seen as a meaningful opportunity to contribute to educational and social impact in South Yorkshire. The Trust is described as forward-thinking and led by a second-generation CEO committed to sustainable growth over the next five years. Every decision is anchored in ACET’s values of excellence, equity, integrity, empowerment, and esteem, all of which place children at the heart of the Trust’s mission.

Re-Vision is a small charity based in Queen’s Park, London, founded in 1988. We run professionally accredited part-time courses for adults to train as Counsellors and Psychotherapists and are looking for Trustees to join our Board.

Who we are

Re-Vision is a registered charity. It is a small, not for profit counselling and psychotherapy training organisation providing outstanding, in-depth training with a soulful perspective. We also offer a low cost community counselling service to enable access to mental health services for those who might otherwise not find this affordable.

The role

We are juggling a number of important strategic imperatives. We have highlighted the need to improve resilience, to look ahead at future plans for our physical environment, to continue to provide an inclusive and rewarding experience for our students, trainers and staff, to maintain and build on the unique soulfulness and richness of our training, and to build our bursary fund to help to increase accessibility to our training.

We are keen to find trustees willing to help us with these challenges. We are particularly keen to involve people with financial or marketing skills, and people who have been involved in facilitating or helping small organisations faced with the challenge of retaining core values during periods of change. This is an exciting period of change for Re-Vision and could be a good time for those with experience in strategic planning or change management to get involved, even if only for a fixed term.

We are currently looking to recruit Trustees with experience in:

• Finance and financial strategies – able to contribute to scrutiny of financial information, understand accounts and budgets.
• Diversity and inclusion policy and implementation
• Marketing and website expertise
• Facilities and property management
• Strategic planning or change management experience would be desirable

You might have previous non-exec or trustee experience, or you might be looking for your first Board/Trustee role, possibly as you think about moving on to paid non-exec roles in the future. Whatever your situation, you will be keen to make an important contribution by supporting a really worthwhile organisation. You will care about understanding our culture and values and enjoy the challenge of helping this organisation continue to thrive.

Join our Board of Directors

Trustee Lead for Safeguarding required for an innovative, best-practice charity

Help to make a real difference to the lives of women and girls by joining the board of directors of Advance

Our vision is a world where women and girls lead safe, just and equal lives.

Title: Chair Elect

Reporting to: Board of Trustees

Role Type: Volunteer

Location: London

Renumeration: The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although expenses for travel may be claimed.

Do you have expertise in the role described below and a belief that your skills will contribute to the strong and effective governance of an innovative medium-sized charity? We are looking to appoint up to four new Trustees to the Board with skills specifically focused on Safeguarding Adults & Children

This post is open to female applicants only as this is deemed a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Advance is committed to equality and diversity and aims to have a board of trustees that reflects the communities we work with. We strongly encourage applications from women with diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, BAME and LBT communities.

About Us

Advance is a women’s organisation, delivering systems change, and trauma and gender-informed community-based support for women and girls affected by domestic abuse, including those in contact with the criminal justice system. We work nationally through our innovative, best-practice approach and systems change initiatives. We deliver wraparound frontline services across the South and East of England, including Greater London. Our expertise lies in decades of providing specialist support by women and for women and girls, to achieve safety, justice and equality at the intersection of domestic abuse and the criminal justice system.

Our whole-system approach is aligned with our values of collaboration and innovation, partnering with other statutory and non-statutory providers, to deliver a coordinated community and gendered response, improving access to services across the whole system, enabling consistency and continuity of support throughout a woman’s journey. Through our advocacy and awareness-raising work, we focus on systemic change and sustainable impact to meet women’s needs and improve their outcomes.

This is an exciting opportunity for you to join our experienced and committed Board.

You will join a dedicated and skilled group of Trustees and support the charity through a significant period of growth. Our staff team now includes over 150 skilled and passionate women across our programmes and our 10 womens’ centres in London and the South and East of England.

Time commitment

• Five Board meetings per year (in person in Hammersmith west London), plus membership of at least one board sub-committee (four meetings a year online)
• Ad hoc availability as matters arise (by telephone)
• Participate in one strategy away day each year (on a Saturday, usually held in January)
• Commit to the Board of Trustees for at least three years
• Note - the Chair of the Fundraising, Business Development and Communications Committee will be expected to chair a committee meeting four times a year (online) in addition to the Board meetings

The statutory duties of a trustee

• To ensure the organisation complies with its governing document in the articles of association
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document
• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives - the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objectives, no matter how charitable and worthwhile those activities are
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• 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 protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation's funds
• To appoint the Chief Executive and monitor their performance

In addition with other trustees to hold the charity in trust for current and future beneficiaries by:

• Ensuring that Advance has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these
• Being responsible for the performance of the charity and for its corporate behaviour; ensuring that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements
• Acting as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment and proper application
• Ensuring that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard

As well as the various statutory duties, any trustee should make full use of any specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the board make good decisions. The above list of duties is indicative only and not exhaustive. The Trustee will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonably commensurate with the role.

Process
Please download the job specification below, complete the application form and equality monitoring survey 
Closing date for applications: 31 August 2025
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a first round interview week commencing 5 October via Teams. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an in person interview in Hammersmith west London.

You can find more information on our website

To learn more about the role and duties of Trustees, please click here.

We would love to hear from you.

GLF Schools is seeking to appoint new Trustees to the Board as we enter our next phase of development.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 8th September

Location: Trust HQ based in Banstead, with occasional travel to schools across the Trust

Time commitment: c. 6 hours per month, including 7 board meetings per year and 4-6 committees per year.

Who we are

 was founded in 2012 with a mission to serve our communities by providing all children and staff the opportunity to grow, learn and flourish. Over the past decade, we have expanded to include 43 schools, spanning  both primary and  secondary education across Surrey, West Sussex, Croydon, Oxfordshire, Wokingham, Wandsworth and Hampshire. We are proud that GLF is one of the largest and most established multi-academy trusts in the country.

We operate on a federated model of local leadership within a common strategic framework. Our Schools Support Team supports school improvement, safeguarding, finance, HR, estates, IT, and compliance functions. Our School Standards Boards (local governing bodies) provide community-level oversight and engagement. This balance allows us to maintain high standards across the Trust while preserving the unique identity of each school.

We educate more than 19,000 children and employ approximately 2,500 staff. We have an annual income of c.£130million and are focused on ensuring every pound is spent in the best interests of pupils.

About the role

Trustees at GLF Schools are non-executive directors of the Trust and charity trustees under charity law. As a Trustee, you will share responsibility for ensuring we deliver on our mission and meet our legal and financial obligations.

The core responsibilities of the Board are to:

• Ensure clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction.
• Hold executive leaders to account for the educational and operational performance of the Trust.
• Oversee financial performance, compliance and risk.

Our governance is structured to ensure strong strategic oversight, effective accountability and a clear commitment to our values of Respect, Inclusivity, Integrity and Kindness.

We are now looking to expand our capabilities in areas such as financial oversight, digital transformation, HR strategy, estates management, legal and regulatory compliance,  and fundraising.

We are especially keen to hear from those with experience in:

• Marketing and communications
• Workforce planning and culture
• EdTech and AI implementation
• Community engagement and lived experience from underserved groups

As well as expertise in the following areas: 

• Human resources, culture, and organisational development.
• Digital transformation and IT infrastructure.
• Legal, regulatory, or compliance.
• Estates management, health and safety and capital planning.
• Finance and audit. 
• Income generation, philanthropy and foundation development.
• Community engagement and social inclusion.

We are also committed to strengthening the diversity of our Board, and welcome applicants from racially minoritised groups, people with disabilities, and those with experience of socio-economic disadvantage or neurodiversity. We want our governance to reflect the communities we serve and to bring a wider range of lived experiences into our decision-making.

Trusteeship at GLF Schools does not require an educational background. We welcome candidates from the private, public, voluntary, or charitable sectors. What we value is your ability to analyse information, ask the right questions and contribute to strategic conversations.

This is an opportunity to influence the future of education and to be part of a Board that is committed to strong governance, sector leadership and public service.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 8th September.

Join the Board of Hereward College – a further education college like no other – and support them as they continue to improve the life opportunities of young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Tuesday 26th August 2025

Location: Coventry, West Midlands

Time commitment: Chair (3 – 4 days per month), Governors (10 – 12 hours per month)

About Hereward College

Hereward College is a further education college like no other, passionate about improving life opportunities for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Our provision is delivered across a range of course areas, including Art & Design, Creative Media, Sport, Business Studies, ICT, Hospitality, Performing Arts & Music, English and Maths. This provision ranges from Pre-Entry Level to Level 3.

Our learners are supported by a dedicated team of 230 staff, many of whom deliver education, training, care and specific therapies. Whilst our learners may have a physical disability, a communication disorder or other learning difficulties, the one thing they will all have in common is a personal ambition to live a happy, independent and successful life. Through the dedication and passion of our staff, we can help our learners realise their ambitions by achieving some wonderful outcomes with our young people.

About the roles

To ensure that our SLT and wider staff team are supported in their continuous mission to deliver high-quality, individualised provision for our learners, support their families and retain our outstanding national reputation, we now seek to appoint a new Chair and additional governors to our board.

You will play a vital strategic role, offering insight and professional expertise to help our learners achieve successful outcomes, support their families, and help us to realise our ambitions whilst continuing to improve our outstanding national reputation.

Who we are looking for

There is a golden thread that continues to run throughout our board, and that is a passion for improving the life chances and opportunities of our learners. This ethos is something that all candidates will need to possess.

Given the varied, yet specialist nature of our provision, we would welcome applications from individuals with experience gained from a range of appropriate professional backgrounds.

Chair of the Board

Our new Chair should be someone with experience of the boardroom, preferably in a non-executive capacity as a member, committee lead or having been a Chair elsewhere previously. Alongside this, you will need to bring your experience as a senior, strategic leader who has had involvement in organisations of a similar size and complexity.

An understanding and knowledge of the SEND sector will of course be useful given our specialist context, and it will be important that the successful candidate can understand and support us within the landscape that we operate.

Given our ambitions for the future of our organisation which include estate development and the growth of our training subsidiary, we would be interested in receiving applications from candidates who have relevant business experience and who would be able to offer insight and support in realising these ambitions.

Governor roles

Having completed an assessment of the skills and attributes of our current board, we seek to appoint candidates with the following areas of expertise:

• Qualified finance professionals who are able to join not just our board but also our audit committee.
• Legal professionals.
• Those with experience of the FE and SEND sectors with specific knowledge of curriculum, teaching, learning, assessment and internships.
• Experience of business growth and development who can offer insights and support with the growth of Hereward Training Services and who would be happy to become a non-executive Director of our subsidiary.

Candidates for these additional Governor roles do not necessarily need to have had boardroom experience as we will support them with a full induction process. However, professional experience at a senior, strategic level will be important.

Peridot Partners and Hereward College are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for these roles close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 26th August 2025.

Become a Trustee of The Whiteley Homes Trust — Champion Community, Governance, and Legacy

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in later life housing and care?

The Whiteley Homes Trust is seeking a committed individual to join our Board of Trustees and help shape the future of Whiteley Village. As a Trustee, you’ll play a central role in guiding the charity’s strategy, governance, and community impact.

Whiteley Village in Surrey is a pioneering retirement community, home to over 350 residents. As we look ahead, we’re focused on sustaining our legacy, enhancing services, and providing homes that empower people to live independently and with dignity.

PURPOSE OF ROLE
The Board of Trustees are entrusted to further the work of the Trust in accordance with its charitable objectives and to act as champions for the charity in the public arena.

The Board is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines, and its funding bodies, including lenders and investors’ covenants.

Trustees are Directors of The Whiteley Homes Trust, a Company limited by guarantee and governed by company law. Ultimately the Board is responsible for ensuring that the Trust is an effective business – efficient, making best use of its resources and treating all with whom it engages fairly.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Working with other Trustees, ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust has a clear strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating outcomes against agreed targets.
• Provide constructive challenge to facilitate the achievement of strategic objectives, holding the Leadership Team to account for the delivery of The Whiteley Homes Trust’s goals and strategy.
• Establish a constructive and working relationship with, and provide support to, the Trust’s Chief Executive and the broader Leadership Team (LT).
• Ensure the sound financial health of the charity, and that systems are in place to ensure financial accountability and control.
• Ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust’s finances, assets and reputation are maintained and protected and not placed at undue risk.
• Ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives, and for the greatest benefit of the people it serves.
• Support the LT and employees to develop positive and productive relationships with other partners.

TRUSTEE QUALITIES:

In addition to the above statutory duties, Trustees should use the specific skills, knowledge and experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focussing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation, taking a close interest in one of the Trust’s activities to which their expertise and/or experience is particularly relevant or other contributions arising from Trustees’ special expertise. Qualities we are looking for include:

• Shares the vision and commitment of The Whiteley Homes Trust and its aims and values to provide excellent services within a framework of sound financial discipline.
• Has the time and energy to fulfil the responsibilities of the role in an appropriate way.
• Committed to equality of opportunity.
• A strong leader with credibility and enthusiasm; a decisive and effective decision-maker who leads by example.
• An ability to think laterally and creatively.
• Able to work as a member of a team acting and thinking organisationally with a collaborative style that engages at all levels and promotes positive relationships throughout The Whiteley Homes Trust and its partners.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of trusteeship.

TRUSTEES ARE REQUIRED TO:

• Spend time before each Board and relevant Committee meeting reading and considering papers.
• Be contactable by e-mail and telephone.
• Be available for occasional meetings, visits, fundraising events or discussions between full Board meetings.
• Declare any relevant personal interests and avoid conflicts of interest.
• Respect confidentiality of information.

Person Specification

CORE COMPETENCES

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, able to liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders and audiences.
• Strategic thinking, able to analyse complex information, demonstrate clear analytical intellect and take part in evidence-based decision making.
• The ability to work as a strong team member, building confidence in the Trust’s governance and supports the values, ethos and social housing objectives of Whiteley Homes Trust.
• The ability to assess risk and promote risk awareness without being risk averse and understand and evaluate business risks and opportunities in a manner that allows
• The Trust to fully embrace opportunities as they arise.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience of operating at a senior level (either executive or non-executive) within a customer focused service organisation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of commercial issues, with strong business acumen.
• Knowledge of the not-for-profit housing environment including regulation is desirable but not essential.
• A track record at a strategic level of applying technology and data to the design of good customer service.
• The Trust has a skills-based Board, and each Board Member is appointed for their professional skills and experience. The Board is currently looking for community engagement and housing development skills and experience. Alongside these skillsets, experience of working in the housing sector or related regulation is desirable.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong strategic planning skills, able to develop strategic vision.
• Able to challenge appropriately and hold the Board and senior leaders to account; with a wider vision to raise standards across the organisation.
• Able to work collaboratively, building consensus and participating in ‘cabinet style’ decision making.
• Ability to make balanced judgements on issues taking all aspects into account, considering the quantity and quality of information provided, and evaluating the consequences.
• Able to express views succinctly and effectively in a formal meeting making reasoned and thought- through contributions which stick to discussing the matter at hand.

PERSONAL BEHAVIOUR AND STYLE

• Actively role models the professional conduct expected of the Board and is a champion and advocate of our values.
• Proactively demonstrates strong commitment to equality and diversity.
• Passionate about service improvements; strongly champions the right of Whiteley Homes Trust residents and service users to have access to excellent services.
• Listens to others and is decisive when it is required.
• Demonstrates credibility and integrity.

About Impetus

Impetus transforms the education and employment outcomes of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those facing systemic barriers.

We do this by using our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life. We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve.

Governance

Impetus is a charitable company registered with the Charities Commission (Charity number 1152262) in 2013 under its Memorandum and Articles (governing document). The governing body of the charity is the Board of Trustees, led by our Chair. The Board sets strategy and reviews policy. Day-to-day responsibility is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer, who works closely with the Chair. We have several committees and advisory groups made up of experts from a range of fields, providing in-depth review and oversight of our activities led, where possible, by Trustees.

Trustees are aware of and comply with the duty to act in the public benefit in accordance with section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 and members are listed on the administrative details page of our website. The governing body also meets as the sole corporate Trustee of The Youth Endowment Fund, a registered charitable trust.

Our Trustees provide strategic direction, hold the executive to account, and safeguard our mission and values. At Impetus, we recognise that a diverse Board strengthens our governance and better reflects the communities we serve, and we are now seeking two new Trustees. One with significant expertise in public affairs, government relations, or political communications, and one with extensive experience of the chairty sector. These roles will strengthen our ability to invest with stronger insight, as well as to shape policy and secure the systems level change needed to give every young person a fair chance to succeed.

About this role 

This role will complement the existing strengths of our Board, which includes leaders from business, civil society and philanthropy. We are seeking a candidate with deep charity sector experience who can bring insight and challenge to our work supporting frontline delivery organisations. The successful candidate will help ensure our strategic decisions remain grounded in the realities of the young people we serve and the charities that support them. They will play a key role in strengthening how we partner with our portfolio, and in championing systemic change across the education and employment landscape for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Commitment: 

​1 term (3 years) - with a possible second term extension

Time commitment: 

Part-time, flexible. Includes Board meetings (5 per year), occasional sub-committee meetings (up to 4 per year), an annual strategic Board away day, and attendance at in-person events.

Location: 

​Hybrid. While much work can be done remotely, we expect Trustees to attend in-person meetings in central London and at key events throughout the year.

Reports to: 

Chair of Trustees

Key responsibilities

Charity Sector Related:

• Bring insight from your experience in the charity sector to strengthen Board understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing frontline delivery organisations.
• Champion the needs and perspectives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring their lived experience remains central to our strategy and decisions.
• Support the Investment Committee with sector insight to inform funding and partnership decisions across our portfolio.
• Offer strategic guidance on how to deepen our support to charity partners and strengthen their capacity to deliver impactful outcomes at scale.
• Help shape our organisational approach to working in partnership with delivery organisations, ensuring it is rooted in trust, challenge and a shared commitment to excellence.

Role in Relation to the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF):

• Impetus is the legal entity accountable for the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF), which operates under the strategic direction of an independent Committee, chaired by an Impetus Trustee. While this trustee role does not sit on the YEF Committee, the Impetus Board retains overall governance responsibility for the Fund’s effective delivery, including safeguarding and financial oversight.
• The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the public affairs landscape and the role of policy, funding, and government relationships in shaping large-scale initiatives like YEF. They will recognise the significance of YEF’s mission in preventing youth violence and the importance of influencing government decisions on future funding streams, including opportunities such as the Dormant Assets Fund. They will contribute to Board-level discussions with strategic insight and a clear grasp of their non-executive responsibilities.

Core Trustee Responsibilities:

• Attend quarterly Board meetings and occasional sub-committee or strategy sessions.
• Provide oversight of organisational performance, risk, and compliance.
• Ensure the charity is governed effectively and in line with legal obligations.
• Support the CEO and leadership team with advice, challenge, and strategic insight.
• Review and understand core governance documents (e.g. Articles of Association, audited accounts).
• Complete the necessary documentation, such as declarations of interest and trustee eligibility.

Person specification

Essential skills and experience:

• Substantial experience in the UK charity sector, ideally with a focus on improving outcomes for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• A deep understanding of the operational and strategic challenges faced by frontline delivery organisations, including funding, growth, and impact measurement.
• Experience working in or with youth-focused charities, with a clear commitment to addressing the systemic barriers young people face.
• Proven ability to bring charity sector insight to strategic decision-making, particularly in support of long-term organisational partnerships.
• Ability to bring constructive challenge and sound judgement to Board discussions, with diplomacy and clarity.
• Strong alignment with Impetus’ mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their potential.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

At Impetus, we believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experience, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, ages and genders. We particularly welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, whether through professional experience, cultural background, or personal journeys that include the challenges faced by the young people we serve. We value the diversity of thought and perspective lived experience can bring, while recognising that personal experience is not something we expect candidates to disclose or revisit.

Induction and Training

At Impetus, we’re committed to ensuring that every trustee feels informed, supported, and confident in their role from day one. Our structured induction process includes a comprehensive welcome pack, access to key organisational documents and strategy, one-to-one meetings with staff and fellow trustees, and the opportunity to observe our work in action. We ask new trustees to commit three to four hours over their first few months to fully engage in the induction process. We take this seriously because we know that strong, effective governance starts with clarity, connection, and a shared understanding of our mission to transform the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

How to apply

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement. 

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

If you wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact recruitment.

The deadline for applications is August 22nd, 2025

Interviews

Interviews will take place in the end of August, or as applications come in, to suit both the availability of the applicants as well as members of the Impetus Leadership Team and Board.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.