1 Corporate and major gifts fundraiser volunteer roles

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES – Rivertime Boat Trust (Henley-on-Thames)

Rivertime Boat Trust is an award winning Henley-based charity giving disabled and disadvantaged children and adults access to the River Thames aboard our purpose-built, wheelchair-accessible boat. We are seeking an inspiring Chair of Trustees to lead our board through an exciting period of growth, including the launch of a second, electric-powered boat.

ABOUT US
Founded in 2006 by Pat and Simon Davis, the Charity launched Rivertime, a bespoke wheelchair-accessible motor cruiser, in 2008. She has since welcomed over 35,000 passengers, including 2,500 in 2025 alone. Accredited for Learning Outside the Classroom, we also run immersive river-based learning for SEND school children in partnership with local education teams.

Our 2025 evaluation showed that time on the water helps children and young people with special educational needs meet academic, health and wellbeing goals. It also supports their sensory, communication and behavioural needs. Full wheelchair access means every young person can take part equally. Our new electric boat will extend where we operate and how many people we can reach.

THE ROLE
Commitment: approx. 5 days per month, plus four trustee meetings a year
Location: Henley area (board meetings and events in person)
Term: Three years, renewable by mutual consent

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Governance
- Lead the board to deliver the Charity's mission, setting agendas focused on strategy, performance, culture, stakeholders and accountability
- Run fair, focused meetings where every trustee's view is heard and valued
- Ensure a balanced board with the right mix of skills and experience
- Oversee trustee induction, development and regular Board Effectiveness Reviews
- Ensure trustees receive accurate, timely information to make sound decisions
- Guide and support the Charity Manager, Managing Skipper, staff and volunteers
- Ensure legal and financial compliance and the highest standards of integrity and risk management

Fundraising
- Lead fundraising from major donors, trusts and corporate partners
- Use personal and professional networks to open doors to new funding
- Host and speak at fundraising and charity events

Advocacy
- Act as the public face and lead ambassador for the Charity
- Build strong links with community leaders, local government and media
- Speak with passion and authority on the issues facing disabled and disadvantaged people

ABOUT YOU
- Well connected with business leaders, donors and influential communities
- A track record of securing major gifts or sponsorships (advantageous)
- A genuine commitment to improving the lives of disabled and disadvantaged children and adults
- Natural authority and presence, with excellent listening skills and the ability to unite a board
- A strong understanding of corporate governance and the statutory duties of a Chair and trustees
- A strategic thinker who balances long-term vision with effective oversight and risk management
- A business perspective, financial acumen and a commercial mindset
- The time and commitment to attend meetings in person

FIND OUT MORE ON OUR WEBSITE