Network Committee Member Volunteer Roles

Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:

• Can this be stopped?

• How do I (or my child) live this life?

The merger of Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation, which took place on 1st April 2023, will enable us to address both questions. By combining our strengths and expertise we are now the only significant national funder with the efficiency,

capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.

We are now seeking up to four new trustees as we establish ourselves in our new form and under our new name (soon to be announced). This is an exciting inflection point for us, and our new trustees will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.

We have worked through our merger and have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. Our re-brand will also enable us to amplify our position as a leader within the sight loss sector. Our merger was a critical step in accelerating research which will create a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes these such an important and exciting roles for the right people.

As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.

We are particularly seeking individuals who have a medical or scientific research background, ideally in ophthalmology, and those who have experience in retail and fundraising. If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”

Dr Heather Giles, Chair

“Our two organisations came together to form a new dynamic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, impact-driven organisation to save sight and change lives. We are searching for trustees that can join us, and be at the forefront of creating the culture, the outlook and the methods of working and the operations to truly make a difference in society.”

Keith Valentine, CEO

 

ABOUT US 

We are a new organisation forged from two ambitious charities: Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation. Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.

It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’

Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.

THE MERGER

Fight for Sight funds breakthrough research and life-changing services to build a more equitable future for blind and partially sighted people by accelerating breakthroughs in multiple sight loss conditions.

Vision Foundation works to inform, include and empower the visually impaired community. Empowerment is at the heart of what we do; our work focuses on what people can do, rather than what they can’t.

The merger will help us to realise a joint ambition to tackle sight loss from both a clinical and social perspective. Our combined organisation is now grounded in data and insight into the science, as well as the lived experience of, sight loss. With this wealth of evidence we’re determined to:

- generate further investment into the sector,

- accelerate clinical progress,

- improve quality of life for people facing or living with sight loss

Crucially, coming together is about growing our influence and impact, not reducing or diluting what we do. So, as we evolve as a merged organisation, we are combining our teams, announcing our new name and fine-tuning our unified

mission and strategy – as well as continuing with the important work we’re already committed to – you can expect big things from us and it is an exciting time to join us as a trustee.

OUR FUTURE

Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Historically, Vision Foundation has funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.

As a grant-maker, we are change-makers, accelerators and drivers of impact. We are bold, energetic, challenging, disruptive, tenacious, and determined.

We aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges facing the sight loss community, either. Recent campaigns include The Unseen, which unearthed the shocking scale and nature of domestic abuse among blind and partially sighted people, and See My Skills, which addressed high unemployment rates. The charity excels at working in partnership with others towards creating a more equitable society for the sight loss community.

As we progress, we’ll scale the impact of projects like these, look beyond the nation’s capital, and drive systemic change. We’ll need to secure the funds to invest in our trusted partners to achieve our ambitions. We’ll continue to fundraise by engaging with supporters and companies through legacies, events such as the London Marathon, and our network of charity shops.

The evidence we commission influences policy and decision-making to demand equality for all.

We’ll shortly have a new name that reflects our united ambitions, so it’s an exciting time for us and the people we serve.

 

OUR FINANCES

The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we

have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.

OUR BOARD AND LEADERSHIP TEAM

Fight for Sight / Vision Foundation is the only organisation in the sight loss sector with an Executive Leadership Team that has over half of its members with lived experience of sight loss.

The Board currently numbers ten trustees, including our newly appointed Chair.

The Board meets four times a year, or more often as required.

Follow this link to find out more about our Board.

 

ROLE DESCRIPTION

As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will be invited also to get involved in one of our sub-committees. These are currently:

- Social Impact & Scientific Research Committee (SISR)

- Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee (FARR)

- People Committee

- Retail Committee

 

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Planning

- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.

- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.

Governance

- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.

Engagement

- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.

- Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, corporations, government agencies, and the visually impaired community.

Evaluation and Accountability

- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.

- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We are seeking dynamic and dedicated individuals to serve as trustees of our ambitious merged organisation. The ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to our cause, along with the following:

Specialist experience

At this time, we are particularly interested in candidates who have leadership experience in:

- Scientific and/or medical research

- Ophthalmic research and/or clinical practice

- Strategic oversight of substantial fundraising and/or retail operations

Despite these areas of interest, we welcome a diversity of skills and experience at our charity and on our Board, and want to find the right candidates regardless of their specific areas of expertise or experience. So if you are interested in this role and think you can contribute to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.

General attributes

Knowledge & experience

- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.

- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, corporations and government agencies.

Skills & abilities

- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.

- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.

- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.

Styles & behaviours

- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.

- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.

- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.

 

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Remuneration

This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.

Time commitment

While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:

- A minimum of four Board meetings per year

- Up to four subcommittee meetings per year (the specific committee depending on skills and experience)

- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.

- Annual Strategy Day with full Board and executive team.

- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.

- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.

Location

At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.

We are looking for people from all walks of life, ages and experience To represent, fundraise, promote and elevate the boroughs of Newham, Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest, East Bank and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

The Foundation for Future London is recruiting 3 unpaid roles: Finance Trustee and 2 Trustees to join the Board Ambassadors, a new voluntary role made up of East London’s most dedicated, passionate advocates

The Quality of Life Foundation is looking for a new Trustee with financial expertise to join our existing board.

This is a great opportunity for an experienced professional to join the board of a growing and impactful organisation that is bridging the gap between health and wellbeing and the built environment.

The Quality of Life Foundation

The Quality of Life Foundation was established in 2019 by Prof. Sadie Morgan OBE. Its vision is for a housing system that improves people’s quality of life in their homes and neighbourhoods over the long term.

Our activities include research, thought leadership, training and strategy development, based on the organisation's Quality of Life Framework. Working with organisations in the public, private and third sectors, we are instigating practical projects to support more long-term thinking in industry and government. We are a small but influential organisation and have ambitious plans for growth over the coming years.

We were formally registered as a charity in 2022 and operate a wholly-owned commercial trading subsidiary.

The Role

The role of the Trustees is to set the organisation’s strategic direction, monitor the delivery of its objectives, and uphold its values and governance. The board will also guide, advise and support the Chair, who leads the delivery team towards achieving the Foundation’s vision and purpose.

For this role, we are specifically looking for someone with a finance background and existing or previous experience in charity finance and governance to work with existing trustees to oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and the legal obligations of the Charities Act.

The appointed trustee will sit on the Finance, Governance and Risk sub-committee and work with the Foundation’s Director and other trustees to update the board at regular intervals about the financial position of the Quality of Life Foundation and its trading subsidiary, QOLF Trading Ltd. NB all trustees are jointly and severally responsible for the administration of the charity.

Key responsibilities of the trustee include:

General

• Overseeing the creation and implementation of the Quality of Life Foundation’s strategy and business plan.

• Ensuring that the Foundation complies with all legal, regulatory and charitable requirements.

• Ensuring that the Foundation’s governance and performance is of the highest possible standard.

• Representing the Foundation at external events and sharing its aims and achievements with a wide variety of stakeholders to further establish its profile.

• Working in partnership with other Trustees and the Chair.

Financial

• Supporting the Director and board to oversee the financial matters of the charity, and to ensure appropriate presentation of budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements.

• Ensuring that financial resources are spent in accordance with the Charity’s objectives, good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.

Main duties:

In addition to the general duties of a trustee, your time will be spent:

• Liaising with the Director and/or Business Manager and supporting on financial matters.

• Supporting the board to monitor the financial viability of the Quality of Life Foundation and its trading subsidiary, QOLF Trading Ltd.

• Creating, in conjunction with relevant senior staff, a set of sound financial processes and procedures for the control of the charity’s assets.

• Advising on the financial implications of the Quality of Life Foundation’s Strategic Plan.

• Reviewing the annual accounts and, where applicable, liaising with the Foundation’s external accountants to ensure the accounts are compliant with the current Charities’ statement of recommended practice (SORP).

• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained and ensuring expenditure is in line with the Foundation’s charitable objectives.

You

You are a leading professional in your industry with the time and commitment to help accelerate our growth and impact. You will be able to demonstrate:

General:

• A commitment to the Quality of Life Foundation’s mission and vision.

• Knowledge and understanding of current financial practice relevant to charities and relevant duties under the Charities Act.

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship.

Strategic Leadership:

• An ability to quickly understand, explore and resolve strategic issues, and to set and prioritise objectives.

• An ability to make your views known and make decisions in a group environment and in line with strategic objectives.

• Integrity and good independent judgement.

• Agility and the ability to think creatively.

Communication:

• Confidence in persuading and in communicating clearly and sensitively.

• Ability to listen intently, carefully and objectively.

• Ability to convey ideas, information and opinions clearly and concisely including a preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the Board.

Teamwork:

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to make decisions for the good of the Foundation.

• Support of the Chair, fellow board members and the Director.

• An ability to challenge the views of others appropriately.

Trustees should also have a good network and be able to combine various specialisms, with an understanding or appreciation of issues around design quality or health and wellbeing.

We are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive board, containing a broad range of skills, experience and backgrounds.

Commitment

The board meets formally four to six times per year. In addition, you will be expected to join the Finance, Governance and Risk sub-committee of the board and to represent the Foundation at external events.

Board meetings are held online and once a year at a location in central London. They are generally held midweek during the working day.

Trustees report to the Chair of the board. The position is unpaid, but reasonable expenses will be covered.

How to Apply

Please send a CV and covering letter outlining your experience, why you would be suited for the role and why you want to join the Quality of Life Foundation board.

If you require further information, or would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact us via our contact form on our website. 

Applications will be considered by the Chair and Trustees of the Quality of Life Foundation.

Suitable candidates will be invited to interview.

We are looking for a Trustee who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders.

Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do. However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.

Key Attributes We Seek in Trustees:

· Commitment to the YSS Mission: A keen belief in YSS's mission of fostering independence and empowerment is vital. We believe our Trustees should be driven by a passion for effecting positive change in people's lives.

· Integrity and Ethical Conduct: Upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability is non-negotiable. Trustees must embody honesty and ethical behaviour in all endeavours.

· Strategic Thinking: Effective trustees possess strategic foresight and the ability to analyse complex issues. They contribute valuable insights to shape YSS's long-term direction and goals.

· Leadership Skills: Demonstrating strong leadership qualities is essential. Trustees should inspire others, foster collaboration, and proactively identify opportunities and challenges.

· Financial Awareness: Understanding financial matters is crucial for fulfilling a Trustee’s financial responsibilities to the organisation. Trustees should actively review financial reports and plans to ensure YSS's financial health.

· Diversity and Inclusion: YSS serves diverse communities, and we value diversity in our Trustees. Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion is paramount.

· Effective Communication: Trustees should possess strong communication skills, articulating ideas clearly and engaging with stakeholders effectively.

· Collaborative Approach: Operating through collaboration is a hallmark of YSS. Trustees should be team players, working collaboratively towards common goals.

· Adaptability and Resilience: Trustees should be adaptable and resilient in navigating change and uncertainty while staying focused on the organization's mission.

· Commitment and Availability: Serving as a trustee requires dedication of time and energy. Trustees must commit to attending meetings, participating in discussions, and engaging in relevant activities.

Principal responsibilities

· Provide strategic direction.

· Monitor performance.

· Ensure compliance.

· Safeguard reputation and values.

· Ensure financial viability.

· Contribute to MD's appointment, support, and performance monitoring.

· Participate in appraisal, recruitment, and disciplinary panels.

Desirable Areas of Skills and Experience:

· ICT and digital transformation

· Legal

· Safeguarding

· Criminal Justice

· Social Care or Social Enterprise

· Accountancy and financial planning/reporting

· Organizational Management

· Human Resources

· Community Development

· Balancing conflicting views sensitively

· Networking and relationship-building

· Commitment to the charity's vision and values

· Strong leadership with credibility and enthusiasm

· Effective decision-making and independent judgment

Summary of the Role: As a Trustee, you'll be responsible for setting strategic aims, objectives, and direction. You'll ensure YSS achieves its objectives, represents stakeholders' interests, and act as an ambassador for the charity.

Structure, Governance, and Management: YSS is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. The Board delegates responsibility for day-to-day management to the Managing Director, aided by the Senior Management and Leadership Team.

Strategy: YSS has a broad 3-year strategy linked to our organizational Theory of Change. Bi-annual strategic reviews are undertaken by the Trustees and Senior Management Team.

Priorities for 2024-2025:

· Implementation of impact measurement metrics

· Creation of staff and service user forums

· Focus on income sustainability and relationships with local authorities and funders

· Further development around our social value strategy

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

Our work currently involves a range of projects across the UK, including long-standing weekly music sessions at Bethlem and Lambeth hospitals, projects in around 12 prisons a year in England, and our Resonate programmes in Glasgow, Sheffield and Nottingham, which focus on those with disabilities and mental health issues in the community.

The Board of Trustees upholds the best interests of Good Vibrations, ensuring that we achieve our charitable aims whilst abiding by charity law and other relevant regulations.

Good Vibrations wishes to appoint a new Chair to our Board of Trustees who is experienced in organisational leadership, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  The Chair supports and empowers the Board and CEO to lead the charity so that we achieve our vision, mission and aims, whilst remaining sustainable and ethical.

The Board of Trustees

Good Vibrations is a registered charity in both England & Wales (1126493) and Scotland (SC048860). The charity is governed by the Board of Trustees, which currently numbers five following the standing down of some long-term members.

The Board is vital in Good Vibrations’ governance and is responsible for setting directions in strategy and maintaining oversight over all activity. Trustees also play an ambassadorial role in raising awareness of our work.

The current board includes expertise in arts and culture, legal and charitable affairs, finance and academia, helping to ensure that we extend our knowledge of the issues and challenges we face.

Good Vibrations is regularly in receipt of funding from Arts Council England and Creative Scotland, as well as from the National Lottery and several other Trusts and Foundations. The Board is currently involved in creating the organisation’s next 5-year Business Plan. You can see our most recent Annual Report and Accounts here.

What are we looking for?

The position has become available following the standing down of the current Chair Nick Jolliffe, who has been with the organisation since 2018. The organisation has recently appointed a new CEO, and this is an exciting time of development for the organisation.

As our new Chair, you will help shape the next exciting phase of our future development as we commence our new strategic plan, and embed our newest Trustees within our established Board. Your leadership and commitment will ensure we continue to provide and extend our range of much-needed support and services to our beneficiaries.

The role of the Chair is a voluntary, non-executive appointment. The role requires a commitment of approximately two hours a week, with the capacity to flex upwards should the need arise.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Strong leadership skills that engage, inspire and motivate the Board, staff, freelance team and other external stakeholders.
• Genuine interest and commitment to social justice issues and improving outcomes and opportunities for marginalised people in our society.
• A proven track record in developing strategic initiatives and steering an organisation toward success
• Previous experience on the Board of a UK charity, or operating at a senior strategic leadership level in previous roles
• Knowledge about UK charity governance and commitment to maintaining high standards of governance and risk management in all areas including finance.
• Excellent communication skills and networking capabilities, and able to act as an ambassador for the charity and cause.
• Ability to commit time, interest and effort to conduct the role well.

How our Board works

Trustees meet quarterly at Board Meetings, either in person in London or online from 5.00pm – 7.30pm.  There is also an annual Strategy day in London.

In addition, a Finance sub-committee meets quarterly, looking in-depth at finance and other matters, before putting recommendations forward to the Board.

Trustees do not receive remuneration or other benefits, but all expenses can be claimed including those required to cover access needs such as sign language, interpretation, captioning or travel expenses. The full legal framework for Trustees is laid out in the Articles of Association, which were recently revised in 2022.

Trustees serve for an initial term of three years and will have the opportunity to be re-appointed for a second and final term (maximum of nine years).

 

What Responsibilities will you have?

Trustees ensure the good governance and smooth running of the charity, supporting the Chief Executive Director, the wider staff team, and our team of freelance facilitators.

ow there are lots of ways that someone can gain experience and insight, not just through professional experience. Having trustees with lived experience of the settings in which we work is essential to our work.

All Board members can have access to training and charity networks to benefit not only the charity, but individual’s personal development.

All Good Vibrations’ Trustees have responsibility for the:

• governance of the organisation in line with legal and financial requirements of the Charity Commission, OSCR, other regulatory bodies, and funders;
• appointment, including the approval of job descriptions and pay levels of members of staff; agreeing terms & conditions and employment procedures;
• recruitment of new Trustees;
• approval of Good Vibrations’ strategy, its business, and artistic plans, and use of resources;
• approval of budgets, annual accounts and financial strategies;
• approval of all policies ensuring that they are updated in line with law and best practice.

The Chair, as the leader of the Board of Trustees, has some additional responsibilities including:

• working with and line managing the CEO to develop the direction and strategy of the charity;
• conducting annual performance reviews for each trustee and the CEO;
• ensuring high standards of governance, risk management and strategic direction
• ensuring that all Trustees have the information available to carry out this task and monitor progress;
• leading and developing the Board of Trustees and CEO including induction, training and succession planning;
• support of the CEO in their role, including developing external relations with key agencies;
• working with other members of the Board to organise and populate sub-committees and short-term working groups;
• planning the cycle of Board Meetings and working with the CEO to set agendas and plan meetings;
• chairing and facilitating Board meetings effectively, encouraging discussion, summarising key points and ensuring decisions are made fairly;
• acting as a principal ambassador for the organisation at Board level and developing external relationships for the benefit of Good Vibrations

Before you apply

Good Vibrations is committed to becoming an organisation that reflects society and promotes diversity of thought and experience and inclusion of those who are historically underrepresented in leadership roles. We would particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the contexts in which we work, including from people with a previous conviction.

For an informal conversation about the role prior to application, please contact us through details on our website.

Please note this post will require a Disclosure & Barring Service check (DBS) and references.

How to Apply

We welcome all applications but particularly those from individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system, disability, including physical disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, mental ill health, and autistic and neurodivergent people. We also encourage applications from those protected under the 2010 Equalities Act due to age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

We are interested to hear from those who may not consider a position like this due to social or financial disadvantage. Those with caring responsibilities and on low incomes are encouraged to apply, and we will work to make provision where possible.

To apply for this role, please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your interest through Charity Job. We will also accept applications in any preferred format (including audio or video).

The closing date for this position is 14th May 2024 with interviews to be held on the week of 20th May.  Any access requirements will be met.

Support U is a Reading based charity set up in 2010 to provide support to LGBTQ people in the Thames Valley.  Our small team runs social, emotional and wellbeing support and social groups and provides some counselling services.  We are looking to revitalise our Trustee Board and require a new Chair of Trustees.

This role description includes:

1. Your general statutory responsibilities as a Trustee

2. Specific Responsibilities for your role as a Chair of Trustees

1. Your general statutory responsibilities as a trustee:

· Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy

· Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (ie its constitution), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects (ie the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public

· Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets

· Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation

· Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place

· Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation

· Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions.

This may involve:-

· scrutinising board papers,

· leading discussions,

· focusing on key issues,

· providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

2. Your specific responsibilities as Chair of Trustees, including person specification

Your responsibilities as Chair of Trustees include:

· Providing leadership to the organisation and the board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to provide greater public benefit

· Chairing and facilitating board meetings

· Giving direction to board policy-making

· Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented

· Representing the organisation at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate

· Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making

· Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required, for example annual general meeting

· Setting agendas for board and other general meetings

· Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning

· Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaising with the chief executive (if staff are employed) to achieve this.

Person specification for the Chair

· Leadership skills

· Experience of committee work

· Tact and diplomacy

· Good communication and interpersonal skills

· Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

In most circumstances, it would also be desirable for the chair/vice-chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation and a wider involvement with the voluntary sector and other networks.

Your role also includes the following person specifications, which are universal for all trustees:

· A commitment to the organisation

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

· Strategic vision

· Good, independent judgement

· An ability to think creatively

· A willingness to speak their mind

· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

· An ability to work effectively as a member of a team

· A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Become the next Chair of The Story Museum, an award-winning one-of-a-kind Museum which immerses thousands of children annually in the world of books, bringing stories to life through boundless creativity and deeply engaging experiences; educating and inspiring the next generation of readers in its incredible reimagining of the written word.

Applications close at: 9 a.m. Tuesday 11th June 2024

Location: Oxford/online

 

About The Story Museum

The Story Museum exists to enrich lives, especially young lives, through stories. It achieves this from its most unusual Museum in Oxford where great stories are shared in the most incredible variety of powerful, funny and engaging ways.

Thanks to a creative and committed staff, they devise an imaginative programme of permanent and temporary exhibitions, performances, interactive workshops, skills-building courses and online engagement. Located in the heart of Oxford, it brings stories to life, unlocking the next generation’s creativity and imagination.

So much more than simply a ‘museum,’ The Story Museum brings stories to life through interactive exhibits, talks, shows and a beautifully curated collection highlighting the history of storytelling.

The Museum believes passionately in highlighting the human need for stories and takes pride in celebrating and devising the many innovative ways that people can benefit from them. They collect great and diverse stories and share them in the most engaging ways possible.

Founded in 2003 as the first museum dedicated to stories in the world, The Story Museum has grown in scope and ambition. Truly one-of-a-kind, the museum is a fountain of creativity and innovation, rightly recognised with its NPO accreditation, as a Museum of the Year 2022 finalist, the RIBA South Award winner 2022, and a 2021 Civic Trust Awards Regional finalist.

The Story Museum is an innovative, physically engaging world filled with stunning theatrical props, talking trees and incredible attention to detail that bring children’s favourite stories to life.

In terms of outreach, the Museum works with 8 schools and 4 community centres from the Oxfordshire area, offering free activities to the students who need them most.

Children and their education are at the heart of what they do – spaces are designed to stimulate and inspire, and their content is regularly co-created alongside young people who take part in their programmes.

The Museum finds itself at the precipice of the next exciting phase. Following redevelopment, the Museum has set its sights on becoming recognised both regionally and nationally for the iconic work that it does, aiming to be a beacon of education and a cultural leader in the storytelling space.

About the role

With their former Chair stepping down after 3 successful terms, they seek a new Chair to help oversee their governance, prioritise key targets, and drive financial and strategic growth.

The Story Museum is a registered charity with a Board of non-executive trustees who are legally responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the organisation, with day-to-day responsibilities delegated to the CEO and senior leadership team.

The Chair of the Board provides effective leadership by chairing board meetings throughout the year, working closely with the executive leadership team, and scrutinizing the charity’s progress against its strategy and charitable objects.

The Chair acts as an ambassador for The Story Museum, helping to raise its profile, build its network, and provide support to fundraising initiatives. The Board’s governance is strong, and trustees are highly committed and engaged – bringing the necessary energy and scrutiny to meetings. Led by experienced and renowned CEO Caroline Jones, The Story Museum has a dedicated, engaged and talented executive team — all united by a passion for the importance of children’s storytelling.

The Board and Executive have a healthy, amiable and professional relationship, ensuring the organisation has challenge and support in equal measure.

The Chair of the Board is expected to:

• Establish effective partnerships between the Board, the executive, and stakeholders.
• Ensure the Board operates at a high level underpinned by an inclusive atmosphere and active contribution from all members.
• Attend and chair quarterly Board meetings, quarterly committee meetings, the AGM, and an annual inspiration day board meeting.
• Have regular routine meetings with the Museum Director and other senior staff to act as a sounding board, provide additional scrutiny, and assist in response to urgent issues if they arise.
• Act as an ambassador at external events with an eye to secure additional funding.
• Represent the Museum to key stakeholders, including Arts Council England representatives and funders.

Who we are looking for

The Story Museum is seeking a Chair who can demonstrate:

• Corporate leadership experience at a board level (private or public sector)
• Experience in chairing Board meetings with an excellent knowledge of governance.
• Proven ability of helping to define, support and/or drive the strategic direction.
• A proven track record in stakeholder engagement, with a willingness to engage directly with funders, being mindful of TSM’s status as an NPO.
• Ability to listen, to consult and ultimately to be decisive.
• Ability to delegate effectively.
• Experience in monitoring progress against objectives and milestones.
• Experience in building networks and connections with a view to raising funds for charities and good causes across the not-for-profit sector.
• An experience and understanding of charity finance with the ability to monitor and interpret financial data.
• A passion and commitment to the values, purpose and activity of The Story Museum
• Professional or personal experience in one or more of the following: children’s story in its widest forms, publishing, education, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage and culture
• Being within reach of Oxford and Oxfordshire will make fulfilling the role easier.
• Candidates must bring experience of operating at Board level, with previous/current chairs, vice-chairs, and committee chairs especially welcome.
• A passion for the mission is vital, so experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable: children’s stories, publishing, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage, or culture.

Candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of senior strategic leadership experience and have a good understanding of governance oversight in relation to financial and senior management performance.

The Story Museum seek a strategic, collegiate and inclusive leader who can effectively manage change, challenge appropriately, advise, act strategically, and have a consultative and collaborative style.

As a proactive and vocal ambassador for the Museum, the next Chair must be comfortable articulating the vision and direction of the organisation to internal and external stakeholders alike.

Please click 'Apply via website’ 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. Tuesday 11th June 2024.

Progress towards equality for autistic children and young people has been made and we’re proud of our role in this as a movement for change. But there is still more progress to be made. This is an opportunity to lead the board of a charity that is ensuring we live in a world where autistic children and young people can be themselves and realise their ambitions.

Location: London across several sites.

Applications close on Friday 31st May.

Who we are.

Ambitious about Autism is the national charity for autistic children and young people. We were established in 1997 by a group of families of autistic children who were concerned about the lack of appropriate provision for their children. Following a major capital fundraising campaign and a series of temporary locations and premises, Treehouse School and our charity moved into purpose-built accommodation in 2008, together creating the Pears National Centre for Autism Education. Since then, we have grown our education services opening Ambitious College, The Rise School and Spring School, and merging with St John’s College in September 2023, alongside extending our national influencing and enabling activities.

We run specialist education services and an award-winning employment programme, wherein children and young people are at the heart of our charity’s decision-making, policy work and campaigning. We also use our expertise to deliver training and consultancy to a wide range of organisations to improve awareness and understanding of autism. We want to help even more autistic children and young people to improve their quality of life and secure a fulfilling and rewarding future.

Even during the pandemic, we lived up to our name as we achieved so many goals and plans. We developed our Right from the Start toolkit, launched our Employ Autism campaign, and have grown and evolved.

We are experiencing an exciting period of growth. We were chosen to open a new school – Spring School which supports up to 90 pupils at capacity from ages 4-19 and we announced our merger with St John’s College. Although this is exciting, we have a battle on our hands as we call on the government to follow their solutions in the SEND Green Paper. We’re concerned that some of the proposals will make it even harder for autistic children to access education support and so we are asking for a public commitment from the government to fund support for children with SEND. There are more than twice as many children with SEND in schools and colleges now than there were in 2010, but the government has not set out what funding will be available to pay for the additional support they need.

We know there is an increasing need for mental health support across all schools. Everyone should be able to feel OK at school. But we know this isn’t the case for many autistic pupils. That’s why we created the Autistic and OK programme to empower autistic pupils to take control of their mental health and wellbeing, understand themselves and feel OK at school. Our guide is free for every single secondary school. But there is more for us to do, to continue to build and empower our communities to ensure autistic young people feel understood and accepted.

We recognise that there is still more to be done to grow and develop our important work, first outlined in our Time for Ambition 2021-2024 strategy and so we are extending this strategy for a further two years. Our aims continue to include ensuring autistic children and young people have an excellent and inclusive education, alongside striving for every autistic young person to have good careers education at school and in further and higher education, including experience of work. Autistic people need services that support good mental health by reducing isolation and so we want to ensure early intervention through signposting to specialist support. We aim to ensure peer networks are available alongside uplifting but realistic information tailored to autistic young people and their families. We also want to further develop our Ambitious Youth Network and continue to expand nationally to empower young people to connect with one another and to influence societal change.

Given we run schools, following a governance review in December 2019, we created our own Multi-Academy Trust – Ambitious about Autism Schools Trust (AaAST) which currently has two schools. We implemented several new changes to our governance including Joint Trustees and a joint committee structure wherein there are five trustees each of the Charity and Trust Boards and three Trustees who are Trustees of both Boards who serve as the joint Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer of the Charity and Trust. All Trustees of the Charity and Trust are members of a Joint Group Board Committee to ensure oversight of the Charity and Trust. How this works in practice is everyone meets together with a short meeting afterwards to discuss Ambitious about Autism Schools Trust.

Our new Chair.

Our current Chair, Neil Goulden, is approaching the end of his term in December 2024, and we are in search of our next Chair to lead our Board. We need a Chair who has extensive experience in modern board leadership, ensuring robust governance, and promoting collective strategic decision-making. We are looking for someone who is commercially astute, as we strive to drive our organisation’s continued growth, ambition, and development. We value a Chair who embodies credibility and adeptness in navigating complexity. The ability to work with others and build trusting relationships with a variety of stakeholders are key.

Our new Chair must be committed to making a meaningful impact and leading an organisation that empowers young autistic people during a pivotal period of change in our communities. We need a Chair who is an inclusive leader, fostering engagement, strategic thinking, and openness who will lead the board as an

exemplar of inclusivity. They must be supportive and challenging, creating opportunities for growth and positive impact.

It is vital that our new Chair works with the board to ensure that all voices are heard and will have an affinity for our mission to stand with autistic children and young people, champion their rights, and create opportunities.

The new Chair will work with an established board and ambitious executive team that is ensuring our organisation is sustainable, evolving, innovative and impactful, and leads change whilst providing outstanding education to young autistic people.

The Board meets once a term and has an annual strategy away day. We expect the time commitment for the Chair to vary, and we would expect the equivalent on average of circa two days a month across various activities such as preparation for board meetings, reading board papers, regular conversation with the Chief Executive, ad hoc discussions with board members and the executive team, and attending events throughout the year.

Our board is diverse in many ways, including autistic people, who are part of our board, alongside a balance of gender, ethnicity, and age. We want to continue ensuring our Board represents our society and the people we work with every day.

Please click 'Apply via website’ 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 Friday 31st May. 

Cornwall Air Ambulance operates 19 hours a day, 365 days a year, delivering over 1100 critical care missions annually across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. As the first helicopter emergency medical service in the UK, Cornwall Air Ambulance holds a special place in people’s hearts, whether resident or visitor to the county. Thanks to their generosity, our Charity can not only continue to grow, but also embrace innovation and encourage aspiration.

We are now seeking to appoint a new Chair to lead our Trustee Board. With previous experience of high-level board operations, you will be comfortable in a senior, public facing role. You will also have a sound understanding of what good governance looks and feels like. Demonstrating sound judgement and leadership, your ability to control and manage meetings is critical, encouraging scrutiny and respectful challenge, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and that the Board remains focussed and strategic.

For further information about Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, the role and how to apply, please download our information pack.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Benslow Music is looking for new Trustees to join the charity’s Board of Trustees.

Now is an exciting time to join the organisation as it continues to shape and develop its programme. Following the arrival of a new Chief Executive at the beginning of the year, the organisation is entering a period of strategic renewal and building towards its centenary in 2029. 

Benslow Music’s Trustees have legal and financial responsibility for the charity and are responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation in partnership with the Chief Executive. Day to day management of the organisation is delegated to a professional administrative team led by the Chief Executive. Trustees are also ambassadors for the charity, supporting the team in fundraising and developing networks that will enable Benslow Music to realise its ambitions.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, lived experience and professional knowledge. Following a recent skills audit, we are keen to hear from individuals with experience in the following areas:

· Professional experience in the cultural/music education sectors

· Finance

· Marketing and communications

· Fundraising

· Strategic development

· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management

· HR

· Charity governance

Application timeline:

Opportunity launched 24 April

Deadline for applications 22 May

Conversations with potential Trustees 3-17 June

Appointment July

Please see the How to Apply section for further details.

About Benslow Music

Benslow Music creates music learning experiences for people of all ages. We support individual development, inspire curiosity, celebrate creativity, and share all the life-long benefits music brings. We do this through a programme of residential, day and online music courses, a concert series and an instrument loan scheme.

At our campus in Hitchin, we welcome and provide learning opportunities to adult musicians of all abilities. We support everyone from late-starters to early-career professionals in unlocking their potential. We offer around 150 short courses throughout the year, covering genres from classical to jazz to folk, and opportunities to explore solo, small and large ensemble playing. Through regular concerts we provide a platform for emerging and acclaimed artists.

Benslow Music is home to the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme, which holds a collection of over 800 string and woodwind instruments that are lent to young musicians aged 7-25. Each year over 500 loans ensure that borrowers, regardless of background, are able to grow and develop as musicians.

 

Benslow Music began as the Rural Music Schools Association in 1929, offering musical education to people of all ages who were outside urban centres. In 1952, the four-acre Victorian estate in Hitchin was bequeathed to the RMSA and has since developed into a lively campus for music activity, with two recital halls, practice rooms and accommodation for around 50 people. Renamed Benslow Music Trust in 1986, the Trust subsequently took responsibility for the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme.

Plans for the future include ongoing development of creative music activities for all ages, an expanded online offer, additional collaborative and partnership working, and further development of our site facilities and accommodation. In short, Benslow Music weathered the pandemic and is now poised for continued evolution and diversification to reach new audiences in each area of activity. This is an exciting time at which to be joining the organisation, as we look towards our centenary celebrations in 2029.

About the Trustee role

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that Benslow Music is able to achieve its vision and charitable objectives, providing critical challenge and oversight. The Board is a collective body. All Trustees share responsibility for decision making, being expected to act in the best interests of the charity.

Trustees have several areas of responsibility, some of which are defined by the Charity Commission. Additionally, Trustees are expected to:

· Ensure that the organisation uses its resources to pursue its charitable objects

· Oversee the strategic direction of the organisation, supporting its development through good governance

· Ensure that the organisation complies with legal requirements, particularly in the areas of finance, health and safety, and safeguarding

· Use personal skills, expertise and time to support the organisation’s development

· Actively participate in board meetings, committees and working groups as required.

· Act as an ambassador for Benslow Music

· Undertake tasks required by the Board from time to time

Time Commitment

The expected commitment is roughly equivalent to one day per month, although more may be required from time to time.

The Board meets four times per year, plus an Annual General Meeting held in June. These meetings are hybrid, and can be attended virtually or in person at Benslow. Where possible we encourage Trustees to attend meetings in person. Time will also be needed to read meeting papers.

Alongside, further informal meetings are held online, designed to give Trustees more space and time to discuss additional strategic areas. Trustees will usually be allocated to committees and working groups with delegated responsibilities based on their expertise and interests. Trustees are also expected to attend events at Benslow as their time permits.

Terms

Trustees are subject to periodic re-election by members on a rotational basis, typically every three years. There is currently no limit to their total length of service but this is under consideration by the Board. All Trustees are required to sign a declaration that they understand the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee and meet the eligibility requirements. All Trustees are also required to complete an enhanced DBS check.

Being a Trustee is a voluntary role, however reasonable expenses are paid to Trustees to ensure they can effectively participate in Board meetings. This may include expenses such as travel or a contribution towards childcare.

About you

We are seeking individuals who are forward-thinking, fair-minded and committed to the continued development of the organisation. You will be enthusiastic about the work of Benslow Music, sharing our values and vision and excited to join an organisation going through a period of change.

We are keen to hear from individuals who can show:

· Commitment to Benslow Music and its values

· Curiosity

· Openness and integrity

· Ability to make sound and informed decisions

· Creative and strategic thinking

· Ability to collaborate and communicate with a team

· Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

· Strong advocacy skills to act as an ambassador

· Understanding of the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee

 

We would like the Board to represent a broad range of skills, knowledge and lived experiences to help with its critical and strategic oversight. We are open to hearing from all professional backgrounds, in response to a recent skills audit we are keen to appoint Trustees with experience in:

· Cultural, music or music education sectors

· Finance

· Marketing and communications

· Fundraising

· Strategic or business development

· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management

· HR

· Charity governance

There is no requirement to have previous Trustee experience and training will be given to first-time Trustees.

We welcome all applications from people of all backgrounds, in particular from those who will diversify the lived experience of the Board, for example in terms of gender, disability, age and ethnic background.

Organisation structure

Benslow Music is a group of three entities led by Benslow Music Trust, a registered charity (313663) and a company limited by guarantee (408404). Trustees are both Trustees of the charity and Directors of the company. Benslow Music Trust is the corporate Trustee of Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme (BMILS), a registered charity (313755). Benslow Music Enterprises (registered company 10967344) is a trading subsidiary of Benslow Music Trust through which we conduct non-charitable activity.

The Board of Trustees currently numbers 11, with a number of Trustees due to retire at our next AGM. The Board is a welcoming and collaborative group which enjoys discussion and debate. Trustees act as critical friends to the organisation while meeting their legal and governance obligations.

Management of the organisation is through the professional staff team. This is led by the Chief Executive with support from senior management team (Heads of Finance, Music, BMILS, Operations and Development) and the wider staff team in administration and hospitality, numbering around 40 people in total.

How to apply

To apply, please see our website for details, which details where to send the following:

· Your CV

· A supporting statement (max 2 pages of A4) explaining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee of Benslow Music and how your skills and experience will support the strategic oversight of the organisation. Please state in the letter that you are eligible to become a Trustee and your willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check

· A completed equal opportunities monitoring form (this is anonymous and will be stored separately from your application)

Deadline for applications: 10am on Wednesday 22 May

Applications will be reviewed by the Nominations Committee of current Trustees, who will shortlist candidates to invite for further conversations during 3-17 June to be held via videocall.

We anticipate that selected candidates will be invited to attend and observe a Board meeting before being formally appointed as Trustees.

If you would like to arrange an informal pre-application conversation to discuss the role further, please email Michael Duffy.       

We are keen to ensure that our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you have any access requirements or barriers to application, please contact Michael Duffy to discuss how we might make reasonable adjustments to the process.  

Orchestras Live seeks a new Chair to lead the Board of Trustees and help steer the organisation through its next phase of development.

Orchestras Live believes orchestras are for everyone. Our mission is to ensure everyone has access to and can enjoy the benefits of live orchestral music, regardless of their background. We work throughout England in places which have experienced historical underinvestment, including rural and coastal areas. Our projects can take place in schools, care homes, prisons, arts venues, museums, outdoors and online.

If you believe in and want to advocate for the power of culture to create social impact and positive change, this role could be of interest to you. It is not essential to have knowledge of orchestral music or the orchestral sector. However, it’s important that you recognise the unique role that orchestras can play in supporting a culturally vibrant and resilient society, and love music – orchestral or otherwise. 

About us

Orchestras Live believes orchestras are for everyone. We are a national producer and create projects where music and creativity can thrive. We work to ensure communities across England have access to world-class orchestral experiences.

We are seeking a new Chair from November 2024 when Tony Stoller steps down after 6 years in the role.

Through our innovative and developmental approach Orchestras Live has become a leader in the sector. We collaborate with local, regional and national organisations to energise and shape orchestral programmes, prioritising the needs and interests of audiences and participants. We are motivated by the knowledge that there is much still to be done to engage new audiences, break down social, economic and demographic barriers to access and support the development of an orchestral profession that reflects the diversity of today’s society.

Our new Chair will share our belief in and commitment to the power of culture to create social impact and positive change. It is not essential to have knowledge of orchestral music or the orchestral sector. However, we are looking for someone who recognises the unique role that orchestras can play in supporting a culturally vibrant and resilient society, informed by a love of music (orchestral or otherwise).

Our current trustees bring a wide range of expertise and diverse perspectives to Orchestras Live.

Vision, Mission and Values

VISION

Orchestras are for everyone.

MISSION

To engage people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly those in historically under-invested, non-metropolitan communities in England, in creating work that harnesses the transformative power of orchestral music to inspire, bring joy and support wellbeing.

VALUES

Our values set the standard by which we hold ourselves to account and ask partners to do the same.

We are

Creative

To ensure that the orchestral experiences we co-produce are ambitious, meaningful and relevant.

To devise innovative solutions that underpin efficient organisational systems.

Inclusive

To ensure equity of access and opportunity across our delivery programme and organisational structure.

Collaborative

We respect and understand the needs and aspirations of communities with whom we work, our partners’ challenges and ambitions, and the expertise and potential within our staff and trustees.

Environmentally responsible

We raise ambition for ourselves and the sector to improve environmental responsibility, take focused action and collaborate to mitigate and minimise the environmental impacts of our operations and co-productions.

Forward-looking

To explore new developments and their potential – artistic, technological, environmental, societal or organisational – so that we offer innovative and dynamic leadership to the sector.

Who we are looking for, and why

We are looking for an exceptional individual with the experience, integrity and skills necessary to act as a powerful ambassador for Orchestras Live, and to lead the Board in the governance of the organisation. Leadership experience in any sector and an understanding of the role of not-for-profit Boards are essential. A willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort to the role of Chair is also required.

We are interested in hearing from candidates who can demonstrate their suitability in the following essential areas:

Experience and skills

• Leadership role in any sector, paid or voluntary
• Strategic leadership: working with others to agree objectives, devise, communicate and support the delivery of an organisational plan
• Assessing and managing risk
• Networking, advocating and building relationships, on behalf of an organisation, a sector or a cause

Knowledge

• Best practice corporate and/or charity governance principles
• Financial literacy

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, e.g. local authorities
• Working with national policy makers 
• Developing organisational strategies to achieve more equality of opportunity, diversity and inclusion
• Identifying new sources of income, including income-generating models, for the not-for-profit cultural sector
• Using data to understand and articulate the value of cultural/creative activity and support decision making
• The operational and creative potential of digital technology
• The structure of publicly funded cultural provision in England and the role of Orchestras Live within it
• The role of central and local government in supporting artists and public access to the arts, and their current policy priorities relating to culture, education and social policy

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, age groups and cultures. The Board has made specific commitments to embed equity of access and opportunity across our delivery programme and organisational structure. To help us deliver these, we are keen to hear from Global Majority, D/deaf and disabled candidates to support better representation on our Board and in leadership positions in our sector. 

Candidates who self-identify as belonging to one or more of these groups and can demonstrate experience in the essential areas listed above will be guaranteed an online interview at the first stage.

We offer access support for people who face barriers to inclusion, meeting in accessible venues, being flexible in scheduling meetings at different times of day and covering travel expenses as outlined in our Inclusion Statement, which can be found at the end of this document.

About you 

You will believe in the power of culture to create social impact and positive change, supporting your commitment to Orchestras Live’s purpose and vision;

You will share our commitment to creating a more equitable orchestral sector and to cementing an inclusive approach across everything we do and how we do it;

You will demonstrate a strong affinity with our organisational values: Inclusive, Collaborative, Forward-looking, Creative and Environmentally Responsible;

You will demonstrate confidence and persuasiveness whilst adopting a collaborative leadership style;

Your leadership style will reflect Orchestras Live’s fair and transparent decision making culture;

You will be able to build resilient and supportive working relationships with trustees, the CEO and management team that facilitate positive discussion and challenge where appropriate; 

You will share our enthusiasm for people who bring different work and life experiences, perspectives and ways of doing things to the organisation. We want to work with people who have open ears and an open mind to new approaches, prepared to challenge the status quo.

What you will be expected to do

Overall objectives of the role

• Provide leadership to the Board of Orchestras Live, ensuring it fulfils its responsibilities for governance of the organisation and supports realisation of its vision and mission.
• Work in partnership with the Chief Executive to develop and deliver the vision, mission and strategy of the organisation.
• Act as ambassador for Orchestras Live, helping to shape external relationships that will reinforce its national position and strengthen its ability to secure funding from a wide range of sources to fulfill its mission.

Trustees meet as a full Board at least four times a year and there are a small number of standing committees and working groups. Board meetings and an annual Away Day generally alternate between Leeds and London; as our trustees are based in different parts of the country, meetings are usually hybrid so that trustees may attend either in person, or online when distance and scheduling is an issue. Committees and working groups usually meet on Zoom. Papers are circulated by email in good time for trustees to read them thoroughly before the meeting.

The Chair can expect to commit to the equivalent of up to 30 days per year. This includes monthly meetings (in person or online) with the Chief Executive and regular communication with the Chief Executive and/or Company Secretary as required, as well as time spent in preparation and planning regarding governance and strategy. Full day commitments are rare; the expectation would be mostly for half days and 1-2 hour meetings (generally online). 

In addition, all trustees are expected to attend at least two Orchestras Live activities a year and contribute feedback for our internal evaluation systems.  

Whilst the role is voluntary and unpaid, travel and other appropriate expenses are reimbursed.

Term

We are looking for a Chair for an initial, minimum three-year term; ideally to be renewed for a second term to a total of six years. 

Our Chair is appointed by the Orchestras Live Board of Trustees and is accountable to them.

The Role of Chair

The Chair of Trustees has the same legal responsibilities as other Trustees, but has additional responsibilities assigned by the Board.

Board leadership and meetings

• Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that, through the Board and its committees, the Board runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions. Calling special meetings if necessary. Drawing up agendas for meetings with the Chief Executive and Company Secretary.
• Chairing meetings effectively and sympathetically, creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately. 
• Ensuring that high standards of corporate governance and ethical, professional behaviour are maintained and, as appropriate, introduced to meet changing circumstances and good practice.
• Fostering collaborative and effective relationships between the Board, the Chief Executive and the staff team.

Governance

• With the Board, ensuring that financial controls and systems of management and risk are in place and effectively operated, and that the Board is kept informed in a timely and relevant manner of key issues and opportunities and performance against the business plan.
• To support, challenge and appraise the Chief Executive in managing the organisation, maintaining a balance between artistic and business goals, and ensuring a clear separation between executive and non-executive roles following corporate governance principles.
• Conducting periodic Board effectiveness reviews, ensuring that new Board members are fully inducted and that existing Board members are contributing effectively. 
• Keeping an eye open for conflicts of interest.
• Generally keeping in touch with Trustees to ensure that they feel valued and can make a full contribution to Orchestras Live.

Advocacy

• Representing the Board and organisation to external stakeholders including funders, national and local government politicians, policy makers and the media where appropriate.
• Being a champion for fundraising, helping to identify and develop relationships with potential and existing donors and supporters.
• Encouraging Trustees to play an active role as advocates in their networks, attend events and external meetings when the Chief Executive or senior staff would value this.

Your relationship with Orchestras Live

With a clear vision and goals, and efficient operations, Orchestras Live aims to create a supportive and open working environment, that enables individuals to perform at their highest level. We support new trustees with a full induction process. 

We offer access support for people who face barriers to inclusion, meeting in accessible venues, being flexible in scheduling meetings at different times of day and covering travel expenses as outlined in our Inclusion Statement. 

In return for your time and commitment, we offer you the opportunity to play a leading role in a highly respected, innovative and forward-thinking organisation, bringing the thrill of live orchestral music to people and places all over England and steering new thinking in the sector. You will have the opportunity to gain new insights into the cultural and charitable sectors, connecting with national and local government and expanding your knowledge and skills. 

Exploratory conversation

If you would like to have a conversation with the Vice-Chair, Chief Executive or departing Chair regarding any aspect of the role, please contact us.

How to apply

Please email your CV together with a covering letter of up to 2 pages (or a 5-minute film or audio recording if you prefer).

We encourage you to explain why you are interested in joining the Board of Orchestras Live, and describe how you demonstrate your suitability in relation to the essential areas outlined in the section on ‘Who we are looking for’. In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the beneficial areas listed.

Please address your letter or recording to our Vice-Chair, Helen Harrison.

Applicants who wish to disclose protected characteristics are asked to make Orchestras Live aware of this in their cover email.

If you have any access needs or other practical questions you would like to discuss before applying, please email or phone us.

The closing date for applications is 9 am on Tuesday 7 May 2024. First round interviews will take place online in the week commencing 3 June 2024. Candidates who reach the second round will then be invited to an informal meeting in person in June/July 2024.

On receipt of their application, applicants will be sent a link to complete a survey requesting personally sensitive data, enabling Orchestras Live to track the demographics of those who apply. Completion of this survey is entirely voluntary and all data is anonymised. Provision of this information is not part of the recruitment process.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion 

We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within Orchestras Live and the wider orchestral sector. This means reflecting critically on issues of diversity and inclusion within all that we do, identifying and taking appropriate action to reduce inequality and improve equity of opportunity. 

For all roles, whether voluntary or paid, we welcome applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, religion or socio-economic background. We are committed to inclusive working practices and during the application process we commit to: 

• Paying for your travel costs for interviews if they are held in person 
• Paying for childcare while you’re attending an interview 
• Making and paying for any reasonable adjustments to meet your needs and ensure equity during the application and interview process 
• Providing all relevant information online and in Word document format, readily available to download from our website 

If there is anything you’re concerned about or think we could provide, please email or phone us and we will do our best to help.

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.

Alpine Garden Society President and Board Chair person 

Thank you for expressing interest in joining the Board of the Alpine Garden Society as our President and chair. You do so at an exciting time for the charity as it seeks to embed recent changes to thrive for another 90 years.

Since our founding in 1929 we have been a specialist interest society that has aimed to share our passion for growing and conserving alpine plants. With the increased pressures on society with smaller gardens and the advent of social media, alpines are enjoying a resurgence and so we wish to see the society grow from the strong foundations of the past.

The last five years have seen us adapt to change and develop to the modern society we are today. Our switch to embracing digital technology and use of modern communication has allowed us to harness the decades old love of our interest and bring it to new audiences on a global stage. We continue to indulge in traditional activities like garden visits, plant fairs and shows that we are renowned for by our loyal members.

The next chapter on our journey to our centenary sees consolidation of our operation and putting our membership at the heart of what we do to deliver our charitable mission. We wish to grow our membership from a stable base and seek new and exciting ways to inspire people through our passion for plants.

About Us

Welcome to the Alpine Garden Society! We are one of the largest specialist garden societies in the world. The Society has a wide interest in plants that encompass not only true alpine and mountain plants, but also small hardy herbaceous plants, hardy and half-hardy bulbs, hardy ferns, hardy succulents, and small shrubs. We are passionate about plants.

The Alpine Garden Society was founded in December 1929. The main purpose of the Society was, and still is to educate its members and the public on alpine plants, their cultivation and conservation. We achieve our charitable objectives through staging our National Shows, publishing our quarterly Journal, The Alpine Gardener and by organising talks, events and conferences. Ever since its inception the Society has also built displays incorporating alpine plants at various national Flower Shows.

We are passionate about the conservation of alpine plants and as a registered charity, we fund cultivation and conservation projects across the UK and abroad. We also encourage the development of knowledge and skills in the alpine field by funding the AGS Trainee Scheme.

Alpine Garden Society members enjoy exclusive benefits such as expert-led AGS Expeditions tours all over the world and access to one of the biggest seed exchanges in the world.

The Alpine Garden Society is governed by a Board of Trustees and run by a director alongside a small staff cohort and a team of dedicated volunteers.

We are located adjacent to Pershore College in Worcestershire, where we maintain a quarter of an acre alpine garden adjacent to our office. We have a network of AGS local groups located around the country who stage regional shows, talks and events.

Person Specification – who we are looking for

• An inclusive, empathetic, transparent approach to leadership
• A passion for alpine plants
• A balance of independent judgement and an ability to work effectively as part of a cohesive Board
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• A diplomatic, clear, tactful approach, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
• A demonstrable understanding of the role of charity Board Members

• Proven experience of working effectively with a Board, with an ability to make the most of the skillsets around the table
• Experience of non-profit governance, ideally in a board capacity
• Experience playing a key role in an organisation’s evolution and growth

Role Responsibilities and Duties (three year term)

The President/Chair of the Society has a dual role.  In addition to having the same responsibilities as any trustee they also have to act as a team leader with the extra duties and responsibilities that accompany this role.

General responsibilities of the President/Chair

Providing leadership for the board as it fulfils its governance duties and responsibilities toward the organisation, including :

• setting vision, values, mission strategy and high-level policy in accordance with charity regulations and the governing document
• monitor the organisation's performance against established targets
• securing financial stability for the organisation
• assisting the Treasurer to protect and manage organisation property and investments
• safeguarding the organisation's reputation and values
• must guide the Board to ensure that the Society operates in line with its charitable purposes
• must always act in the best interests of the organisation as a whole and not allow any personal interest to sway policy making
• making sure all organisational activities comply with regulations and the law
• reviewing major risks and making provisions for the organisation to respond appropriately
• appointing and managing the Chief Executive Officer (Society Director)
• organising and leading board development activities such as self-assessments
• delegating the above duties appropriately

Specific duties:

Meetings

· planning meeting schedules and setting agendas, in close liaison with the Society Director

· leading meetings and facilitating discussion, encourage all trustees to participate and prevent the more talkative members from dominating the debate

Board  leadership

· Alongside the society director, lead trustee recruitment and induction

· Ensure that the whole board is engaged - A Chair must not allow cliques or inner circles to form or allow cliques to influence policy to suit their own personal interests or those society activities in which they are interested.

· Utilise the skills and interests of all board members.

· To oversee the establishment and activities of the board committees, ensuring they are accountable and report properly to the board.

· Deal with conflict on the board

· Give direction to board policy -making.  Exercises leadership by setting priorities for the board and steering discussion toward strategic issues

· Monitor the implementation of board decisions

· Work closely with other Officers

Representing the organisation

· Represent the organisation at functions and meetings (both internally and externally), and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate

Financial & legal responsibilities

· The President must be prepared to be a signatory on the Society bank mandates and other official investment documents.

Limited Companies

· Act as a Director of each limited company and also a signatory on the bank mandate forms.

· Undertake the necessary ATOL training and pass the certification process to be the responsible person ATOL holder on behalf of the limited company.  This also involves ensuring that the necessary ATOL quarterly returns are accurately completed and submitted on time to the CAA.  In addition to ensure that the correct documentation and renewal forms are completed as part of the annual ATOL licence renewal process. 

· Ensure that the necessary insurance policies are in place with regard to AGS Expeditions Ltd.

· Assist and advise with the planning of AGS Tours.

Staffing

· Work closely with the Society Director who acts a the CEO to the Society.  Both the Director and the President should liaise regularly and work together as a team on behalf of the board.  They should jointly seek ways of improving board effectiveness.

· Recruitment - oversee the selection process when a new Society Director is appointed.  This will entail ensuring that an appropriate job description is produced, proper selection procedures are followed and also representing the board on the appointment panel. 

Renumeration

The position is a voluntary role although all reasonable expenses in pursuit of exercising the role will be covered

How to Apply

To apply for the president/chair role, please provide the following documents:

• An up-to-date CV.
• A supporting statement. Please submit a PDF document (maximum two pages) that outlines a bit about you, what you feel is your most relevant experience qualifying you to be our president, and why you’re interested in becoming president of the Alpine Garden Society. Moreover, we would like to understand how you perceive the role of Chair of a charity like Alpine Garden Society, how you might approach the relationship between Chair and CEO and what is your vision for the society.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Upbeat Communities achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity, and they also ensure we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the leadership team to enable Upbeat Communities to grow and thrive, and through this, empower refugees to thrive.

Through regular meetings, strategy days and written reports provided to the board, trustees are able to set the direction of the organisation, develop its strategic objectives and support and keep the staff team accountable in delivering on these
strategic goals.

Trustee meetings are currently held every 2 months either in person in Derby or online (hybrid). We have an annual strategy away day and trustees are also invited to be part of our sub-committees. Trustees are requested to be available to attend occasional ‘unscheduled’ meetings or engage in email communications which address urgent business as it arises, join working groups when needed and spend time preparing for meetings by reading and considering the papers circulated before meetings.

Benefits of Being a Trustee

We believe being a trustee of Upbeat Communities offers a number of fantastic
benefits:

• Strategic decision-making that positively impacts the lives of over a thousand
• asylum seekers and refugees every year
• Supporting an innovative, talented and passionate staff team as they develop
• our work and explore new services and ways of working
• Being part of a committed and focused trustee team working to see the charity
• grow
• Using your skills, experience and passion to contribute to an effective and wellfunctioning
• board
• Opportunities to learn new skills and experiences to contribute to your own
• personal development

Duties

Any individual acting as a trustee for Upbeat Communities would be required to
carry out the following:

• Promote the vision, mission and values of the charity
• Ensure Upbeat Communities and its representatives function within all legal and
• regulatory requirements applicable, and in line with its constitution, continually
• striving for best practice in governance
• Determine the overall direction and development of Upbeat Communities
• through good governance and clear strategic planning
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their
• implementation
• Oversee Upbeat Communities’ financial plans and budgets and monitor and
• evaluate progress
• Review and approve the charity’s financial statements
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively
• Provide support and challenge to Upbeat Communities’ Chief Executive in the
• exercise of their delegated authority and affairs
• Contribute to regular reviews of Upbeat Communities’ own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, and be adequately prepared to contribute to
• discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and
• protect the charity’s interests, avoiding any personal conflict of interests
• Take appropriate professional advice in all matters where there may be a
• material risk to the charity
• Maintain confidentiality about all aspects of the trustee’s business

Finance Specific Duties

• Lead on the strategic financial management of the charity at board level
• Liaise with our outsourced finance team (including our Finance Director)
• Chair the finance sub-committee (which meets 6 times per year ahead of every
• board meeting)
• Maintain a clear grasp of the charity’s financial position and ensure full and
• timely financial transparency and information disclosure to the board
• Support the board of trustees in financial decision making processes
• Review and approve annual budgets
• Advise on banking and investments
• Take an active role in the financial audit process
• Contribute to the financial management of our trading subsidiary (Upbeat
• Enterprises Limited)

Are you passionate about supporting people who have experienced homlessness? Do you believe in giving people a second chance?If so, then this opportuity could be for you!

Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland, support people who have experienced or been at risk of homelessness, find a place where they can enjoy companionship and support.

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