Trustee role volunteer roles in braintree, essex
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Good Vibrations is a national arts organisation that changes lives through music. We work with some of the most vulnerable and hard to reach people in the UK, including in prisons, secure hospitals, and in the community. We are best known for using the Indonesian gamelan, a magnificent set of bronze gongs, xylophones and drums. We use communal music-making to support vulnerable people in challenging circumstances to develop transferable life and work skills and to forge fulfilling, constructive lives.
We have an outstanding track record, with the impact of our work evidenced through nine independent pieces of academic research, including by Cambridge University and the University of London.
We are a Registered UK Learning Provider and OCNL Qualification Centre and hold National High Secure Prison Effective Intervention Status.
We are looking for new people to join our Board of Trustees as two members are reaching the end of their tenure. This is a very rewarding voluntary position with an ambitious charity.
We are looking for people with experience of one (or more) of the following areas:
- Lived experience of challenging circumstances / complex needs
- The arts / music in particular
- Fundraising
- Law
- The Criminal Justice System
- Business development
- Financial management
- Strategy
In particular we are looking for a treasurer to help provide strategic financial oversight, ensuring the charity’s financial stability and compliance with regulatory requirements. As a trustee, the Treasurer will work closely with the Board, CEO, Head of Delivery, and any finance-related professional advisors to support decision-making and financial planning.
This is a voluntary governance role for which your travel expenses would be covered. Trustees are asked to commit to attending 4 meetings (in the evenings) and 1 strategic development day a year. They are also asked for help by sharing their skills on developmental projects. We are particularly interested in people who have experienced the issues participants of our courses have experienced.
To see who is already on our Board, visit Our Board of Trustees on our website's about us section.
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to expand our existing Trustee Board, to bring their experience and fresh, innovative and realistic ideas to the charity.
To apply click below and please include a CV and cover letter.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Secretary to join our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibility is to act as the central point of contact for Board administration, ensuring compliance with governance requirements.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has strong attention to detail, excellent organisational and administrative skills, proficiency in document management and record-keeping and excellent communication, both written and verbally. It's preferable that you will have experience with charity governance processes and compliance.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking a volunteer Trustee to join the Board of Trustees at WORTH to collectively oversee the administration and financial governance of the charity. The board is our governing body, providing strategy and direction and ensuring WORTH is run according to the rules.
We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with business, finance and fundraising experience in corporate or charity sectors to join us.
About WORTH
WORTH is a charity providing long term aftercare to women affected by Domestic Abuse. We offer clients 1-1 support and a range of wellbeing groups including art, writing, music and self-defence to help rebuild their confidence and self-esteem.
We provide a safe space for clients to share experiences, give and receive practical and emotional support, learn new skills, reduce isolation, build friendships, and give women their voice back. It is a space where women can focus on their future and we can support our clients in their healing, post abuse.
To be able to provide this support we rely on a great team of volunteers with a wide skill set and a whole lot of passion to enable our services to work effectively.
Our Board of Trustees play a vital role in making sure that WORTH achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management, administration and governance of the charity. They also ensure that WORTH has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the CEO to enable WORTH to grow and thrive and support more women in need.
Trustee Duties:
- Support and provide advice on WORTH's purpose, vision, goals and activities.
- Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
- Oversee WORTH's financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
- Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
- Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
- Review and approve WORTH's financial statements.
- Provide support and challenge to WORTH's CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
- Keep abreast of changes in WORTH's operating environment.
- Contribute to regular reviews of WORTH's own governance.
- Attend regular Trustee Board meetings and be adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
- Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect WORTH's interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
- Contribute to the broader promotion of WORTH's objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.
As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Trustee Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising meeting papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.
What we are looking for
We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking and skills on our Board of Trustees. We are particularly interested in candidates with business, finance and fundraising experience.
Previous governance experience is preferable but not essential. The role is open to remote and local applicants.
Applicant minimum age is 18.
Personal skills and qualities
- Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as a Board of Trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
- Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
- Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
- A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
- Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
- Willingness to lead according to the values of WORTH.
- Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
- Knowledge and experience of business, finance and/or fundraising.
- An understanding of Domestic Abuse is an advantage but not essential as training will be provided.
- An understanding of client confidentiality, safeguarding, diversity and inclusivity in the services provided by WORTH.
Terms of office
- Trustees are appointed for a two year term of office, with eligibility to renew and serve for two further terms to a maximum of six years.
- This is a voluntary unpaid position.
Time commitment
- Attending a minimum of six trustee board meetings annually, meetings are held remotely via Zoom once every two to three months.
- Attendance at ad hoc trustee meetings in addition to the minimum six annual meetings.
There are currently two Trustee positions open.
You can expect to hear from the Chair of Trustees within three weeks of application submission.
All appointments are subject to references and DBS check.
We aspire to remove barriers and be open to all so we strongly encourage applications from individuals of Global Majority heritage and/or disabled backgrounds.
Please note, this post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact us via the WORTH website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking for a new Treasurer for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking to recruit two trustees who will bring different viewpoints, expertise and experience to further strengthen our board. As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission. We are seeking passionate and skilled individuals from a range of professional backgrounds to help shape our future. Whether you bring experience in HR & people, marketing & comms, governance, finance, legal, fundraising, operations, service delivery or another area, your insight and strategic guidance will strengthen our organisation and support our continued growth and impact.
Candidates must show a commitment to our values and our approach to working in partnership with experts by experience. You must have a willingness to commit the necessary time and effort and to apply your experience and expertise. In addition to the general duties of a Trustee, we are looking for candidates with expertise and experience in:
- HR and People
- Marketing, Communications and Public Relations.
This is an incredibly exciting time to join us as we launch a bold new strategy and embark on a re-brand that will strengthen our voice and impact.
At Z2K, we are driven by a clear and urgent mission: to end poverty for the more than 1 in 5 people in the UK who experience it. Through frontline advice and representation, we work to secure adequate incomes and freedom from high costs, while campaigning for systemic change. And we do this in partnership with those who have lived experience of poverty, ensuring their voices are at the centre of everything we do.
As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in achieving this vision. With people and culture, as well as brand and communications, central to achieving our strategic objectives, we are seeking passionate and skilled individuals to help shape our future. Whether you bring expertise in HR and people leadership or marketing, communications, and PR, your insight and strategic guidance will help us build a thriving, inclusive organisation and amplify our message for change.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Treasurer Trustee Role
Role Overview
The Treasurer plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health, stability, and accountability of Rebuilding Lives UK. They oversee financial strategy, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and provide guidance on long-term financial sustainability. The Treasurer ensures that financial risks are identified and managed appropriately while making financial information accessible to the board. Trustees are expected to be actively involved in the charity’s work, providing hands-on support where appropriate.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure financial policies and procedures are followed and regularly reviewed.
- Oversee budgets, financial reporting, and compliance with legal requirements.
- Support financial decision-making and long-term financial planning.
- Work closely with auditors and external financial advisors.
- Monitor financial health, ensuring reserves are maintained and risks mitigated.
- Present financial reports to the board in an accessible, non-technical manner.
- Assist in fundraising strategy development and grant applications where necessary.
- Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering financial guidance beyond governance.
- Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.
Who We Are Looking For
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Experience in finance, accounting, or financial management.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Knowledge of charity financial regulations.
- Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance specialists.
What You’ll Gain from This Role
Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:
- Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
- Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
- Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
- Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
- Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
- Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.
Mandatory Training Requirement
The Treasurer must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.
Terms of Appointment
Trustees serve an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.
Voluntary Role
All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.
This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
Time Commitment:
- 8 hours per month, including:
- Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
- Active involvement in governance and decision-making processes.
- Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
- Engagement in charity activities beyond board meetings, as appropriate.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Play a crucial role in shaping the future of Gateway Qualifications and support this award-winning awarding organisation in its mission to make a difference in the world of education.
Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 28th May 2025.
About Gateway Qualifications
Gateway Qualifications is an organisation on a mission to make a difference in the world of education. With a commitment to promoting high-quality education for all, we are a growing and passionate team that believes every individual deserves the opportunity of high-quality education. We have a strong national presence and are rapidly expanding in key areas across the UK.
We aim to bridge the gap between employers and education, especially in the context of skills and qualifications. Our organisation follows noble principles, striving for transformation and development while serving a charitable cause.
About the roles
Gateway Qualifications is a synonym of innovation and, as we approach the launch of our new 5-year strategic plan, we are seeking three new Trustees to bring their experience and knowledge to help us make it a reality.
The role of a Trustee is pivotal in ensuring we respond to any sector challenges such as post 16 funding and curriculum reviews, the new QAA Access to HE license process and policy reforms, whilst safeguarding our award-winning reputation for quality and customer service.
We also need to ensure that we remain compliant with our regulatory bodies, including the Charity Commission, Ofqual, QiW, the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), and Companies House, while also spearheading innovative initiatives that empower learners and apprentices to attain qualifications, advance their career prospects, and transform their lives.
As a Trustee, you will collaborate closely with our executive team to further the organisation’s mission to support all learners to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life.
Gateway does this by providing qualifications and assessment opportunities sought by employers and delivered by education and training providers.
Your wealth of skills and experience will play a crucial role in realising our strategic direction, with a heightened emphasis on product innovation, modernisation through technology and system improvements, and maintaining quality and customer focus through periods of policy and sector reforms.
This will allow us to lead national efforts in skill development and position Gateway Qualifications as a leading voice in education that works closely with providers and employers.
Who we are looking for
We are searching for individuals who are committed, passionate, and forward-thinking. While specific skills and experience are essential, what matters most is the dedication and enthusiasm to make a positive impact on the future of education.
Our goal is to ensure that students from all backgrounds are represented and provided with equitable opportunities. We are focusing on three key areas where our new Trustees can contribute their expertise most effectively. There are:
- Quality and standards
- Innovation and digital transformation
- Audit and risk
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. Wednesday 28th May 2025.
We’re an executive search firm working across third sector, education and membership sectors to transform leadership and inspire change.

Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Chair of Trustee Role
Role Overview
The Chair of Trustees ensures effective governance and strategic direction for Rebuilding Lives UK. They provide leadership to the board, oversee decision-making, and act as a key ambassador for the charity. The Chair supports the Chief Executive while ensuring accountability and compliance with regulatory requirements. A key responsibility of the Chair is to ensure that all trustees are actively engaged in their roles, fulfilling their responsibilities, and participating in training.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the board to ensure strong governance, accountability, and strategic leadership.
- Ensure that all trustees actively fulfill their roles, contribute to decision-making, and engage with the charity’s work.
- Provide mentorship and oversight to the Chief Executive.
- Hold trustees accountable for attending training and participating in board activities.
- Ensure that safeguarding measures are implemented across the charity.
- Oversee board meetings, ensuring productive discussions and informed decision-making.
- Represent the charity externally and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders.
- Support financial oversight, ensuring sustainability and compliance.
- Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering support beyond governance.
- The Chair plays a key role in providing strategic direction and supporting the CEO through regular mentoring and guidance. While the board collectively oversees the charity’s performance, the Chair works closely with the CEO to ensure they are supported in their role, offering insights and fostering a collaborative relationship between the CEO and trustees.
Who We Are Looking For
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Experience in chairing boards or senior governance roles.
- Strong strategic leadership and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
- Minimum of 10 hours per month dedicated to board duties.
What You’ll Gain from This Role
Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:
- Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
- Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
- Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
- Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
- Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
- Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.
Mandatory Training Requirement
All trustees, including the Chair, are required to complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of their appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.
Terms of Appointment
The Chair serves an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.
Voluntary Role
All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.
This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
Time Commitment:
- 10 hours per month, including:
- Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
- Providing strategic leadership and guidance to the CEO.
- Annual half-day strategy session and leadership planning.
- Regular check-ins with trustees to ensure engagement and accountability.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the EAUC board and make an impact on over 2 million people working in post-16 education, embedding sustainability in everything they do: equipping learners for their lives and shaping society for the better.
This is a unique opportunity for someone to bring a further education leadership perspective to our charity. We are looking for someone who is passionate about sustainability and education.
Position: Trustee and director
Location: Remote within UK and Ireland
Renumeration: Voluntary with reasonable expenses paid
Positions available: One
Closing date: 16th May 2025
The EAUC is the leading body for sustainability in the post-16 education sector in the UK and Republic of Ireland. We've been promoting sustainability in post-16 education for over 20 years. Primarily a membership body, we serve 300 organisations whilst also working to change systems that enable sustainability action. We’re both a charity and a company limited by guarantee and are always not-for-profit. You can find out more about our vision and values on our website.
Who we’re looking for
The EAUC board has twelve volunteer trustees. One vacancy will arise following the July 2025 AGM.
We seek someone who:
- Is passionate about sustainability and education
- Has insight into the further education or skills sectors
- Has senior leadership experience
- Is committed to our mission, values and social justice principles
We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented on our board with regards to age, ethnicity and disability.
We’ve developed a trustee information pack containing full details about the role, what it entails and how to apply as well as more about EAUC, our work and our EDI commitments. Please do consider joining us, or forward this to colleagues and contacts who are well suited to help us achieve our goals.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.
In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.
As well as the responsibilities of being a trustee, which the Treasurer shares with all the Board members, the Treasurer is expected to be the financial expert on the Board, and to provide advice on all financial matters. Their role is to ensure the Board fulfils its duties to ensure the sound financial health of SMK, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability and sustainability.
For more information see our website, and the recruitment pack.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The ASE is currently looking for a Trustee with a financial background to join our Trustee Body as Treasurer. This role will help to support the CEO, Director of Finance and Operations, Quality & Audit Committee and other Trustees in carrying out their financial responsibilities, in particular with respect to strategic financial planning.
Current focus remains on ensuring high impact, promoting membership growth and diversifying income streams. As Trustee, you will help to shape and drive the strategy forward, ensure the association is financially stable, make key decisions on strategic and financial priorities, manage and mitigate risk, review and ensure policies and processes are fit for purpose and follow good standards of governance. The Treasurer will work in consultation with and on advice from the Chief Executive and Director of Finance and Operations. The role is one of strategic oversight rather than involvement in day to day financial tasks.
The Trustee board is made up of experts from across the science education community - and includes teachers and retired teachers from primary, secondary and post 16 sectors as well as teacher educators, consultants and those working for voluntary organisations in the science education sector.
The majority of the role will be fufilled in Trustee meetings - which meet up to four times per year (all scheduled to take place online)
Mission: to promote excellence in science education
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibility is oversight of the financial management of the Charity, ensuring responsible budgeting, accurate record-keeping, and financial sustainability.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has a background in finance, accounting or book-keeping, with experience in non-profit finace a plus. They should have strong analytical and reporting skills, understanding of charity finance regulations and reporting requirements.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Chair of our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibilities are providing leadership, strategic direction and governance oversight for the charity. They ensure that the board functions effectively, that the organization remains true to its mission, and that it meets its legal and ethical obligations.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has strong leadership, facilitation and decision-making skills, excellent communication and public-speaking, understanding of financial management, fundraising and stakeholder engagement, and a passion for the Charity's mission and long-term success. You should have experience in governance, strategic planning, or non-profit leadership.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is an exciting time to be joining UoGSU as we are implementing our new strategy. As an organisation we have been focused on communities, change and the education of our members.
We are looking for a trustee with experience and expertise in finance – this trustee will chair our Audit and Risk committee. You will be a qualified accountant with experience of financial management, governance and oversight and an understanding of financial audit best practice. Previous experience of Audit and Risk committee work is of interest but not essential. Each term lasts 3 years and trustees can serve a maximum of 2 consecutive terms. Extensions are dependent on re-election to the board.
The individual appointed as trustee will need to be sympathetic to the aims of the SU and more generally share a commitment to the broader values of the student movement; student representation, student rights and the student experience – and the importance of students having a platform to organize together to help make these values a reality.
The role requires a careful balance; trustees need to respect the democratic will of the membership where possible but also be willing to think creatively, challenge constructively and point out potential risk. The Board is comprised of Student Trustees and External Trustees and oversees the work of a team of permanent staff and Student Officers led by the Chief Executive.
An eye for detail to ensure the SU is being well governed and the ability to see future opportunities are also important.
The role is to serve on the board of trustees. Each term lasts 3 years and trustees can serve a maximum of 2 consecutive terms. Extensions are dependent on re-election to the board.
General candidate requirements:
All candidates will need to be comfortable reading and understanding financial information (or be willing to learn more about this aspect of the role). They should also have the following:
- An understanding of business management.
- A willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort to attend board andother meetings, including preparing and reading for those meetings.
- A willingness to speak their mind and contribute.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Analytical ability and good independent judgement.
- An understanding and acceptance of the role of a Charity’s Board of Trustees (including the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of Trusteeship).
- A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service and the SU own values.
Desirable but not essential:
-Recent experience of the higher education sector or of Students’ Unions.
-Experience or knowledge of board governance.
Commitment required
Board Meetings: There are 5 scheduled meetings each year, usually held early evening and lasting 2 to 2.5 hours, with extra meetings added if required (although this is rare). Each meeting will have associated reading and preparation work. Meetings are usually conducted face-to-face, but trustees may participate remotely depending on their schedule and other commitments.
Sub-committees: All trustees will Chair or sit on our board sub-committees – the Audit & Risk and People Committees. These committees usually meet up to 4 times each year and are scheduled to fit trustee availability.
Board members will also need to be available to approve decisions electronically between meetings if required.
If feasible, Board members are also encouraged to visit the SU and observe major events such as Welcome.
UoGSU exists to support its members to overcome the myriad challenges they face, so that they can love their time at the University of Gloucestershire
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We’ve been shaping social change since 1884.
In our 141st year, we are looking for new Trustees to us achieve our vision of a fairer future for East London and beyond.
Vacancy: Finance Trustee x 2
About Toynbee Hall
Toynbee Hall works alongside people facing poverty and injustice to build a fairer future.
Based in the East End of London since 1884, we provide vital support to individuals through our advice and support services and work in partnership with local communities to tackle unfairness through research and advocacy. We are a place where people come together to work out solutions to the challenges facing us all and to shape systemic change.
As a charity we are governed by our Trustees - a group of volunteers who have responsibility for setting our strategy and ensuring we meet our charitable objectives.
However, with the pandemic's aftermath and the ongoing cost of living crisis, we face unprecedented challenges. The most vulnerable communities are hit hardest, and our role has never been more critical. We are constantly reviewing our own allocation of finite resources to ensure we are clearly and effectively focusing on where we can make the greatest impact.
We are looking for Trustees with finance experience to join our Board; helping to shape our future plans and strategy.
Over the past five years, Toynbee Hall has undergone a significant renewal, revitalising our historical buildings, creating spaces that not only provide advice and community connections but also generate revenue to support the delivery of our services and research. Like many organisations we face challenges and some difficult decisions over this period but we are energised about the changes we want to see and how we can contribute. We are also keen to collaborate and grow our projects and thus have wider impact.
We have an engaged, diverse and skilled Trustee Board who are working alongside our senior team as we implement our new strategic plan and organisational priorities.
You can find out more about our existing Trustees on our website.
What we are looking for and what we can offer
It is important to us that we attract Trustees from a range of backgrounds. You don’t need to have previous experience of being a trustee, so please don’t let that put you off!
We will offer an induction program and support to take up the position.
We aim to have a trustee board that reflects the local community, so we especially encourage to apply if you live in Tower Hamlets or who have a personal connection with Toynbee Hall, Tower Hamlets or the East End. Our Board is currently diverse in age, gender and ethnicity and we are committed to maintaining that diversity. We particularly want to hear from potential Trustees who are Black or Asian.
The essential responsibilities of a Toynbee Hall Trustee is to ensure that the organisation pursues its charitable objectives and ensure we remain a going concern.
Trustees must be people with independent judgement, with an ability to think strategically and creatively about the challenges and opportunities ahead.
For this role you will have a financial qualification with at least 3 years’ experience in finance / accountancy. Ideally experience in financial decision making. An understanding of charity funding would be an advantage.
Above all you need to have real enthusiasm for our work and for supporting and guiding our Chief Executive and Toynbee Hall’s passionate and committed staff and volunteers so that they remain focused on tackling inequality and poverty in East London and beyond. And in return we are commitment to helping you gain experience in the non-profit sector strategy and decision making.
The time commitment to be a Trustee
We ask our Board members to attend four evening Board meetings a year, an annual away-day and to be a member of one Committee. Our Committees meet up to three times a year. At the moment our committee meetings tend to be over video, where Board meetings aim to be in person. In person meetings take place at Toynbee Hall’s home in Commercial Street, E1. Board and Committee meetings are held in the evening.
Each Board member serves for a three-year term. This will then be reviewed by the Board with a maximum nine-year term.
Our Board members are also active ambassadors for Toynbee Hall. This means attending and supporting events and taking opportunities to promote and develop the work of Toynbee Hall through networks and contacts.
Next steps and what to expect
We will be accepting applications until midday on 9th June 2025. Interviews will be held with two of our trustees (online) and a second stage with the Chief Operating Officer (in person).
Since 1884 Toynbee Hall is a charity working alongside people facing poverty, injustice and inequality to build a fairer East London
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