Finance and governance manager volunteer roles

Purpose

The Chair leads the board of Trustees, ensuring the charity is well-governed, fulfils its mission, complies with all legal and regulatory requirements, and operates in the best interests of its beneficiaries. The Chair works closely with the Executive Director to provide strategic leadership, support, and challenge.

Background to the Charity

For the past forty years, CHIRP has enabled thousands of people to report safety concerns through our confidential reporting service without fear of identification or harming their careers, contributing to safer environments in the air and at sea. This service has evolved to meet changing needs and is still providing a unique, vital and valuable service to people working in the aviation and maritime industries.

Over the past year a new strategy has been developed focusing on:

- unlocking the barriers to reporting for those who are working in the most challenging situations;

- building coalitions for system change in safety culture and practice;

- embedding best practice safety cultures with employers; and,

- engaging new and future generations.

We also seek to further the impact of the charity by ensuring future sustainability.

We have an excellent, highly motivated team, a committed and skilled Board and a well-earned reputation for being a trustworthy and willing organisation there to help and make a difference, all of which makes this is an exciting time to join the board in this leadership role. Guided by the values of trust and integrity, safety and accountability, a just culture and expertise and collaboration we know we can make an even greater difference in improving safety culture, practice and learning. To do this, and building on the excellence of the past, we will need a Chair who is collaborative, courageous, visionary and strategic, who understands the fundraising and financing challenges of today’s charity sector and who comes with experience of building sustainability and resilience. These foundations will enable the charity to achieve its ambitious plans for future growth.

If these opportunities are what you are looking for and your values align with ours, then please read on for more details about the role and the commitment we are seeking.

Principal responsibilities

Strategic leadership

· Ensure the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic plan, and that these are regularly reviewed.

· Lead the board in setting and monitoring the charity’s strategic direction.

· Safeguard the charity’s values and reputation.

Governance

· Ensure the board fulfils its duties under charity law, company law (if applicable), and the charity’s governing document.

· Promote high standards of governance and encourage all trustees to actively contribute.

· Ensure the board operates effectively, with appropriate policies, procedures, and controls in place to manage risk and promote the objectives of the charity.

· Ensure that the board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.

Board Leadership

· Chair board meetings effectively, encouraging open, balanced discussion and consensus decision-making.

· Ensure meetings are focused, productive, and quorate.

· Support recruitment, induction, and development of trustees.

· Manage trustee performance and address underperformance where necessary.

Relationship with the Executive Director

· Build a partnership with the Executive Director based on shared purpose, offering support and challenge in the interests of the charity.

· Understand appropriate separation of governance and management.

· Conduct the Executive Director’s annual appraisal and support their professional development.

 External Relations

· When required act as an ambassador for the charity, representing it to funders, partners, government, and the public.

· When appropriate support fundraising, advocacy, and profile-raising activities when appropriate.

Additional information

The above list is indicative only and not exhaustive. The Chair will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonably commensurate with the role.

The Lucy Faithfull Foundation is looking for three exceptional Trustees to help realise our vision: a world where children live free from the threat of sexual abuse.

For over 30 years, we’ve led the way in child protection — preventing abuse before it happens, supporting families, influencing policy, and running the world‑leading Stop It Now helpline. Our work is challenging, essential, and life‑changing.

Our charity has recently grown with remarkable pace and purpose. We are proud of the progress we have made and the strong financial footing we now stand on. As several of our long‑serving trustees prepare to retire, we are seeking three exceptional individuals to join our Board and help guide the next stage of our development.

We are now recruiting:

• Research Trustee who brings enhanced research expertise to strengthen the Board’s oversight of research strategy, quality, ethics and impact.
• Finance Trustee who brings enhanced financial expertise to strengthen the Board’s oversight of financial governance.
• Scotland Representative Trustee who is based in Scotland who can strengthen our strategic presence, partnerships and governance within the Scottish context.

If you bring strategic insight, strong leadership, and a commitment to safeguarding children, we want to hear from you.

What You’ll Do

• Shape the charity’s strategy and culture
• Support and challenge the CEO and Senior Leadership Team
• Oversee finances, risk, safeguarding, and compliance
• Champion our mission and raise our profile
• Attend four Board meetings a year (mix of in‑person and online), plus the AGM and relevant committees

This is a voluntary role; reasonable travel expenses are reimbursed.

What You’ll Bring

• Passion for protecting children
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the Nolan Principles
• Ability to collaborate, challenge constructively, and lead with integrity

Why Join Us?

You’ll help steer a pioneering UK charity with national impact, working alongside experts dedicated to keeping children safe. Your contribution will shape prevention efforts today — and protect children for generations.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you share our values and want to play a vital role in child protection, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us build a safer future for every child.

Finance Trustee - Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire is seeking a trustee with financial experience to help shape the future of our high-performing advice charity.

With offices in Grantham, Spalding and Stamford, plus outreach centres across the region, we support a population of 225,000 people. Last year, we helped 14,000 clients with 60,000 issues and secured over £7 million of additional income for them. We are here for everyone to help people move on with their lives.

As a trustee, you will join a well-known, respected charity, influence strategy, strengthen governance and contribute to meaningful change. This is an opportunity to share your expertise with other professional, dedicated trustees, gain valuable experience, build on your leadership and strategy skills, and increase your employability. Previous Board experience would be an advantage, but is not essential.

You will guide the Board and the Chief Executive Officer on the key assumptions and financial implications of budgets and plans. You will use your financial knowledge and understanding to oversee the financial management of the charity and advise the Board.

You will monitor the charity’s financial performance and support the CEO and financial team in areas such as budgeting, clear and accurate financial reporting and financial compliance. This is an opportunity for you to:

· join a respected national charity

· make a positive impact for people in your local area, and

· gain valuable board experience and build leadership and strategy skills.

The time commitment is four in-person Board meetings and four or five remote committee meetings a year, a Board Away Day and an involvement of 1-2 days per month with the Finance Team. 

What do you need to become a trustee?

Trustees don’t need specific qualifications, but we expect all trustees to have 
six core skills: 

● Insight into the organisation: considering CASL’s objects and its public 
benefit strategically 
● Challenging constructively: clarifying facts; stimulating thought 
● Analysing issues: being objective; evaluating risks; using evidence; 
planning ahead 
● Weighing up opinions: using evidence; balancing long- and short-term; 
prioritising value 
● Interpersonal skills: communicating clearly; listening actively; 
supporting a healthy culture, and 
● Confidence and self-awareness: collaborating with others; treating 
everyone with respect.

In addition, as Finance Trustee you will need:

● financial literacy, including experience of creating and managing 
budgets 
● ability to interpret financial information and communicate it clearly, and 
● strong analytical skills. 

For this role, we also value:

● experience of working in finance, accounting and/or audit 
● experience in charity finance, SORP, or nonprofit financial management 
● familiarity with financial software, and/or 
● experience of Board or committee work.

Finally, competent trustees should have these six personal qualities to some 
extent, and demonstrate them in their behaviours: 

● Committed - motivated, dedicated, persevering; plays an active role. 
● Responsible - accountable, independent, reliable; accepts collective 
responsibility. 
● Trustworthy - ethical, principled; is a critical friend and focuses on 
continuous improvement. 
● Collaborative - team-oriented, approachable; builds relationships and 
seeks consensus. 
● Confident - independent; contributes constructively and expresses 
opinions courageously. 
● Thoughtful - curious, adaptable, open-minded; appropriately challenges 
the status quo. 

About us

The London Foundation for Banking & Finance’s (LFBF) is a registered charity incorporated by Royal Charter. Our charitable purpose ‘is the advancement of knowledge of and education in financial services and to carry out research and publish the results for the benefit of the public.’

LFBF also recognises the highest level of professional competence by awarding chartered status to individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to continued education and professional excellence within Financial Services.

Our Story

The London Foundation for Banking & Finance (LFBF) started life back in March 1879, when a group of bank workers came together to establish leadership and professional practice principles for the industry. They created the first Institute of Bankers in England and Wales to offer educational resources to those in the sector.

Over the years, the organisation developed its own industry leading qualifications to create a gold standard of banking and financial education. It also established itself as a leading voice in the banking world, providing invaluable insights into all areas of the industry and promoting the highest standards of professional competency.

Today, we exist to support the advancement of knowledge and education in financial services. Previously, we were called The London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF), and we were renamed following the sale of our education and training activities in March 2023.

Today, our focus is on:

• Supporting our members and creating community: We support financial services professionals, nurturing diversity, innovation and professional excellence. We believe that working with the financial services industry is crucial for building financial capability.
• Sharing insights and best practice: We produce research and thought leadership in financial capability and through our think-tank, the Centre for the Study of Financial Innovation. We believe that change requires evidence and innovative thought.
• Building financial capability: We work directly and through sponsorship and partnerships to reach individuals across the UK, empowering them with the skills they need to become financially capable. We believe everyone should have an opportunity to be financially capable.

 About the role

Our trustees play a vital role ensuring that The London Foundation for Banking & Finance (LFBF) achieves its charitable purpose. They oversee the overall strategic management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that LFBF has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable LFBF to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Role responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of the trustee are as follows:

• Support and provide advice on LFBF’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve strategic objectives and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee LFBF’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 LFBF’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to LFBF’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in LFBF’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of LFBF’s own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Attend LFBF events as appropriate.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect LFBF’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of LFBFs objects, aims and reputation by applying their skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

You will have

We are looking for people willing to bring enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.  

We are particularly interested in recruiting those with experience across these sectors or groups:

• financial education / financial sector
• membership
• education
• research
• communications
• working with younger people
• digital / artificial intelligence
• marketing
• fund raising

Due to a number of our current trustees reaching their term in the coming months, we are looking to recruit up to 4 new trustees. In the main we are looking for experienced trustees however one trustee role will be available for those with little or no previous governance experience as we will provide a full induction and training.

In particular we are looking for:

• Knowledge and experience across 1 or more areas of our remit e.g. financial capability, education, membership, research, communications or in the areas of digital / artificial intelligence, marketing or fund raising
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities as 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 our values.
• Integrity, probity and high ethical standards. 
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Further details including the anticipated time commitment for this role can be found within the Recruitment pack. To access the Recruitment pack, click on Quick Apply. 

Rewarding opportunity to shape this charity's finances and make a difference for the community in Eastleigh. 

What are we looking for?

We need a dependable person with commercial or charity finance experience to help direct our charity's financial strategy as a member of our Board of Trustees. Senior finance background is useful, and Board or Executive Committee experience is preferred, but not essential.

We value drive, passion aligned with our charitable aims, and commitment to our strategy and commercial success. Open, collaborative teamwork is how we work, and any complementary talents that can be brought to the table will be very useful and valued for supporting and coaching our existing team. 

Time commitment includes preparation for and attendance at quarterly Board meetings, ad hoc informal catch-up conversations, budget and month/year-end support in collaboration with our accountant. This may take around 10-15 hours per month, plus additional time for any voluntary projects as necessary

What will you be doing?

You'll collaborate with our small, friendly team of Trustees, the General Manager and our dedicated, passionate and hard-working operations teams, to design and implement strategies supporting long-term charity sustainability. Your experience will help drive efficiency, best practice, and will provide support for staff through coaching and mentoring. You'll play a key role in achieving the charity's objectives. Your local knowledge, networks, and community connections will be valuable. We welcome diversity, especially from youth, disabled, and ethnic minority applicants.

Is This Role for You?

If you are seeking a rewarding opportunity to utilise your skills which will make a difference to thousands of beneficiaries from our local community, we'd love to hear from you. So, please submit your CV with a covering letter outlining your talents and experience, and telling us how you believe you could contribute to the continued success ofour charity. Shortlisted candidates will meet the current Board of Trustees to assess mutual fit and values alignment.

For a copy of the role description and a confidential informal telephone chat, or a catch up/show around over coffee in our Blackbird Cafe to get a feel for the role prior to applying, please get in touch. We also encourage you to visit our website and Facebook page for daily updates and further information.

Our facilities are fully accessible, ensuring ease of attendance at meetings and events for all. Please let us know if you have any additional requirements and we will accommodate you.

Thank you for your interest in our charity and we look forward to hearing from you.

Our partner is a UK-based health justice charity working to improve health and wellbeing by addressing issues such as housing, energy, migration and state violence.

The Treasurer will join the Board of Trustees and provide oversight of financial management and governance. Working closely with the Executive Director and Head of Finance, the role includes monitoring financial performance, supporting budgeting and reporting, ensuring appropriate controls are in place, and helping trustees interpret financial information. You will also advise on the financial implications of strategy and support strong financial decision-making at Board level.

The ideal candidate will bring strong financial expertise, with a recognised qualification or equivalent experience, and an understanding of charity finance and governance. You will be comfortable operating at Board level, able to communicate financial information clearly, and willing to contribute to wider strategic discussions. An interest in health justice or social impact would be beneficial.

This role involves four Board meetings per year, alongside some ad hoc support between meetings.

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For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website

Trustees – Education & Music Charity

Are you a senior education or finance professional looking to give back to the sector?

Services For Education is a well‑established education charity working with hundreds of schools to deliver music education, school improvement services and professional development. We are seeking new Trustees to join our Board.

What the role involves

Trustees play a vital role in:

• Setting and overseeing strategic direction
• Providing constructive challenge and support to senior leaders
• Ensuring strong governance, safeguarding impact and sustainability

The role focuses on strategy and assurance, not operational management.

Who we’re looking for

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with:

• Primary or secondary headship, or senior leadership in a Multi‑Academy Trust
• Financial leadership or accountancy expertise

If your experience is in a different area, but think we would benefit from your perspective, then you are warmly welcomed to apply.

You do not need previous trustee experience – strong professional judgement, curiosity and a commitment to education are what matter most. We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who will bring diverse perspectives and lived experience to our Board.

Time commitment

• Approx. 6 virtual Board meetings per year
• Optional committee membership
• One annual in‑person twilight session

Please visit our Careers page for full details and downloadable Trustee briefing pack.

For more than a century, the RAF Benevolent Fund has stood beside the RAF Family; through
war and peace, hardship and change. From the first day in uniform to the final years of life,
we have been a constant source of emotional, practical and financial support. Today, our work
reaches serving personnel, veterans, families and the bereaved in more than 30 countries.

We are seeking an individual to join our Finance, Audit and Investments Committee which
provides advice, guidance and support to our Board who has Investment management / portfolio
experience.

The successful candidate will:

• advise on matters relating to the Fund’s investment policy and strategy; 
• assist the Committee in monitoring and advising on the performance of the Fund’s Investment Managers; and 
• offer advice and guidance on investing funds on behalf of the Fund

The full role description can be found on our website. These roles are voluntary, however
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are paid. We will provide the successful candidate with a bespoke
induction programme and relevant training / development.

Interested?

If you have the experience we are seeking and are as passionate about the RAF Family as we are, we 
would love to hear from you. 

Please send an up-to-date CV and covering email / letter outlining your background, skills, 
experience and interest in the role to the email address noted on our website.

We welcome applications from anyone who has the experience we are seeking, irrespective of 
background, community, industry or protected characteristics. If you require any reasonable 
adjustments as part of your application process, please let us know. We operate safer selection 
practices; this will involve the successful candidate being required to have a Disclosure and Barring 
Service check. 

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and this position will remain open until we have
found our ideal candidate. No agencies please.

At the heart of Ronald McDonald House Charities, is a simple belief: families belong together, especially when a child is seriously ill. Every day, we support parents, siblings and carers at one of the most challenging moments of their lives, offering not just a place to stay, but space to breathe, connect and cope.

We are the UK’s leading provider of family accommodation, with a network of 14 Houses supporting around 530 families each night. Thousands more families use our Houses each year as a place to rest, refresh and gather strength before returning to their child’s bedside. Yet demand continues to exceed supply, and too many families are still facing long commutes, sleepless nights on hospital chairs or in cars.

Over the next five years, our ambition is clear: to help more families and to serve them better, expanding both our accommodation and our programme of emotional and practical support. To help guide us through this pivotal phase, we are seeking to appoint two new Trustees to our Board:

• Trustee – Paediatric Experience: We are looking for a Trustee with significant paediatric expertise and a strong understanding of the clinical and hospital environment. This may be from a senior paediatric, nursing or allied health background, or with strategic or operational experience from the children’s health sector. You will bring insight into the realities facing children, families and healthcare teams, helping the Board make informed, compassionate decisions.
• Trustee – Finance & Investments: We are also seeking a Trustee with strong finance experience, including knowledge of investments. You will provide strategic oversight and constructive challenge around financial sustainability, reserves, investment strategy and stewardship, supporting our long term growth and resilience.

We are committed to building a Board that reflects a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences. We warmly welcome applications from first time trustees as well as those with prior board experience, and we are particularly interested in candidates who bring empathy and a deep understanding of the challenges families face during a child’s hospital stay.

We begin this next chapter from a position of strength, with the continued backing of the McDonald’s system alongside a clear ambition to diversify income and strengthen our organisation. By 2029, we aim to grow income to over £20m while reducing reliance on any single source.

If you share our values and want to help shape a future where more families are supported, together, we would love to hear from you.

How to apply
To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. Applications should include a CV and a covering letter explaining why you would like to join our Board and how your skills, experience and values would enable you to make a strong contribution as a Trustee at Ronald McDonald House Charities. If you would like an informal discussion about the opportunities, please email Mark Crowley at Tall Roots.

Friends of the Earth [England, Wales and Northern Ireland] is part of the world’s most extensive grassroots network devoted to the cause of environmental and social justice. We are an environmental justice organisation that recognises that the climate and ecological breakdown deepens and amplifies existing economic and other inequalities that affect many marginalised communities. That means ensuring responses deliver a fair share of resources for all human societies, while safeguarding the planet and its eco-systems. Our 2021-25 strategy (currently being updated) worked towards our goal for 2030: that the next generation will enjoy an environment that’s getting better, including a safer climate, flourishing nature, and healthy air, water and food.

To help us deliver our mission, we need a top-quality Company Director and Treasurer to join us and work with the Board to lead us through a both a strategic and corporate governance review.

Being a member of the Friends of the Earth Limited Board is highly rewarding. As an independent member of the Board, you will be part of the governance team of the UK’s most successful and vigorous environmental justice organisation and you will be asked to advise on, develop, and scrutinise impactful strategies and initiatives.

The role is split between being an independent member of the Board of Directors and acting as the Treasurer for Friends of the Earth. As a member of the Board of Directors, you will be responsible for ensuring that Friends of the Earth is achieving its objectives and purpose, and is complying with its governing document and other legal requirements. The role of Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the organisation’s financial health and viability and ensure that clear financial information is presented to the Board. The Treasurer also chairs the Finance Committee, through which they will support with accounting and audit compliance, and ensure adequate financial controls and procedures are in place.

To apply, please see information pack for all details

 Welcome to the NHS Retirement Fellowship

Thank you for your interest in becoming the new chair of the NHS Retirement Fellowship. We are halfway through a five-year plan which is transforming the way we operate, how we engage with the NHS and other key stakeholders, and how we support our members currently and in the future. We have already come a long way from where we started and we are now beginning an ambitious plan of doubling our membership and raising awareness so we can continue with our mission of supporting retired and retiring NHS, health and social care staff. We are seeking a dynamic and professional chair with significant senior leadership experience in the NHS (or the broader health and social care sector) and/or extensive experience of governing a charity to work with us to deliver our vision.

Our Board is made up of a variety of professionals from across the NHS and beyond, a number of whom are members of the Fellowship. We work closely with our dynamic senior leadership team, branch officers and volunteers and have fostered an excellent working relationship for the benefit of our members.

The Fellowship has a small executive team of seven part time staff who all work remotely from home.

The potential for the NHS Retirement Fellowship is immense, and I very much look forward to welcoming you and working with you on this exciting journey.

Julia Hickey

Acting Chair

NHS Retirement Fellowship.

About the NHS Retirement Fellowship

“One of things that makes the NHS a special place to work is the sense of togetherness, belonging and family. So, when colleagues come to retirement, the Fellowship is a wonderful way of maintaining these things and allowing colleagues to continue their connection with the service. I think more can be done to help retired colleagues share experiences, perspectives and support and the Fellowship is ideally placed to do this.” Sir Jim Mackey, Chief Executive, NHS England

Our motto is fun, friendship and fellowship and it sits at the heart of everything we do.

The NHS Retirement Fellowship began in 1978 when retiring nurse Irene James recognised that for significant numbers of retiring NHS staff, their colleagues and friends had also become their family and that those pivotal connections could be lost. Our role has changed during that near 50 years as the NHS has changed and more latterly with the seismic transformation into a digital world. We now have almost 100 branches from the Highlands of Scotland to the north Devon coast and from Swansea in west Wales across to Norwich in East Anglia. About a third of our members are now national members, often choosing to engage on a more remote, digitally based basis. All our members have access to a portfolio of benefits which we offer, including our flagship travel insurance policy, and we are actively pursuing a partnership which would bring a huge range of benefits and discounts to our members. We also have a special fund to support members at a time of need.

Our branches run semi independently from our main charity with their own committees and bank accounts. Volunteers arrange a variety of activities for their members at local and regional level. National members, who choose not to join a specific branch, can join in with local activities and also have access to an increasing number of online based activities. We also hold an annual conference and AGM where the Board, staff and our members can all come together.

We are increasingly working with the NHS and other stakeholders in partnership to see how we can support employers and retain connections, experience and expertise at local level. We’re helping foundation trusts with governors, hospitals with volunteers and NHS charities with supporters. We’re looking to grow so that we are the voice of the retired NHS and wider health service community and see how our members can offer mentoring, support and guidance to the younger generations of NHS staff. 

Our charity is looking to become a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) over the next year.

Our values and mission are unchanged from when Irene James recognised the need to continue to support NHS staff when they retired to enable them to retain links, mutual support and understanding and friendships built over the years in their shared working lives. The NHSRF supports people in retirement to maintain friendships and make new ones, from the NHS, health and social care sectors from a diverse background irrespective of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation and to support each other through friendship.

Role description and time commitment

Our Chair will lead the Board in developing and delivering our strategy, working closely with, and providing line management and support to, our chief executive. They will also support our chief operating officer in preparation for Board meetings and our head of communications in the planning of our conference and other duties. Our Chair will also be a key representative of the Fellowship in meeting and liaising with key stakeholders.

Our Board meets remotely three times a year and once a year in person. We also have two strategy days a year and our AGM and conference which takes place over a weekend in October. There is also a standing invitation to our Members Council meetings, which are three times a year remotely and once a year in person.

Timeframes

The closing date for applications is noon on Monday 1 June. Shortlisting will take place in the following week with interviews to take place in London on Thursday 2 July.

Term of office

We are looking to appoint for a three-year period initially. This will take us through 2028 when the NHS will mark its 80th anniversary and the NHS Retirement Fellowship will celebrate its 50th birthday.

Our chair role is unpaid, but we will reimburse you for reasonable travel expenses.

The Organisation

London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) is the UK’s largest charitable childcare social enterprise, with an ambition of changing the world, one child at a time. With 43 nurseries across 13 London boroughs, we deliver high quality early years education and care to children and families across the capital. Founded in 1903, LEYF has evolved into a purpose driven organisation that combines financial sustainability with a clear social mission, reinvesting all surplus into our nurseries, our people and the communities we serve.

Together with families and communities, we give London’s children, especially those most in need, the best start in life through access to affordable, high quality early years education and care. We focus our work in areas of disadvantage, where it can have the greatest impact, supporting children’s development and strengthening communities. Our approach centres on learning through play, creativity and exploration, delivered by skilled and passionate teams. Through our apprenticeships and the London Institute of Early Years, we provide industry leading learning and development opportunities, equipping our people with the skills and knowledge to deliver excellent outcomes for all children. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to continuous improvement, we extend our impact beyond our nurseries and play an active role in shaping the early years sector, while creating inclusive environments where every child and colleague can thrive.

The Role

LEYF is seeking a Chair of Trustees to lead its Board and support the organisation in achieving its charitable objectives and strategic priorities. The Chair plays a central role in ensuring strong governance, enabling LEYF to deliver high quality, cost effective services to children, families and partners, and to maximise its social impact as it grows. Through strong leadership of the Board, you will help guide the organisation as it continues to expand its reach, strengthen its model and deliver meaningful, lasting impact for children and families across London.

This is an opportunity to make a significant difference to the life chances of disadvantaged children by contributing your skills, judgement and strategic insight within a mission driven organisation. You will work alongside a passionate and committed team, leading a Board of Trustees that is collaborative, professional and deeply engaged in LEYF’s purpose. As Chair, you will play a key role in shaping strategy, supporting sustainable growth and ensuring effective governance at an important and exciting stage in the organisation’s development.

The Person

We are seeking an experienced, values led individual who can provide strong leadership to the Board and support LEYF in delivering its social mission at scale.

Experience and Knowledge

• Senior leadership and Board level experience, with a strong understanding of governance
• Commercial awareness and an understanding of how a social enterprise operates
• Ability to navigate the balance between social purpose and financial sustainability
• Experience of complex or growing organisations, ideally across the UK
• Understanding of, or interest in, the early years sector and wider social impact landscape
• Ability to engage effectively with stakeholders across a politically neutral environment

Skills and Capabilities

• Strategic, pragmatic and calm, with sound judgement and the ability to absorb complexity
• Strong influencing and networking skills, with the ability to build partnerships
• Confident communicator, able to represent LEYF with credibility at a senior level
• Financial awareness, with the ability to balance sustainability and risk in decision making

Leadership Style and Personal Qualities

• Values driven, with a strong commitment to LEYF’s mission
• Supportive and appropriately challenging, acting as a constructive critical friend
• Agile and not risk averse, comfortable supporting innovation and growth
• Inclusive and emotionally intelligent, able to foster effective Board dynamics

Commitment

• Willingness to be visible and engaged, including attending meetings, events and visiting nurseries in London
• Ability to commit sufficient time to the role and support LEYF externally where appropriate

Diversity and Inclusion
We warmly welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds,  particularly those underrepresented at Board level. We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and believe this strengthens our impact.

Further Information

For further information about LEYF, the role responsibilities and the person they are looking for, please download the Candidate Briefing Pack.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of others, please submit an application which includes the following:

• An up to date CV with details of two referees (we will not contact them without your prior permission).
• A supporting statement, which addresses your suitability against the criteria in the Person Specification, and details your motivations for applying.

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Treasurer (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all financial matters including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.

• Ensure compliance with statutory financial regulations and charity law.

• Work closely with auditors and the Finance Committee.

• Present financial reports at each board meeting.

• Support fundraising and resource management strategy.

Requirements:

• Background in finance, accounting, or business administration.

• Knowledge of charity finance and UK financial reporting standards.

• Integrity and attention to detail.

Benefits:

• Direct influence over financial sustainability and impact measurement.

• Recognition in philanthropic financial management networks.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Purpose of the Role

To join the board as a Volunteer Finanical Director, bringing governance knowledge and strategic thinking to strengthen board effectiveness, uphold the CIC's obligations, and ensure all decisions are made in the best interests of the community we serve.

Role and Responsibilities

1. Guide the Board

• Attend two to three board meetings per month, virtual or hybrid, and come prepared to contribute
• Help ensure decisions are made properly, recorded, and followed through
• Review and respond to decisions outside of meetings within 48 to 72 hours
• Support the review of policies and raise questions when something needs attention
• Support the development of projects and programmes by contributing ideas, strategic thinking, critical insight, and creative, innovative approaches, while bringing energy, boldness, and enthusiasm.

2. Keep Us on Track

• Contribute to strategic decision-making, policy approval, and organisational oversight
• Monitor organisational performance and support the Managing Director in delivery accountability
• Flag risks early and help ensure resources are used well and in line with our mission
• Keep the needs of the communities we serve at the centre of every decision

3. Be a Critical Friend

• Challenge and support the Managing Director with honesty and care
• Ask the questions that need to be asked, even when it is uncomfortable
• Help us grow in a way that is sustainable and grounded in our values

4. Champion What Matters

• Be an ambassador for Zion Wellness in how you show up and speak about us
• Participate in bi-directional mentorship exchanges with young people on the programme
• Ensure safeguarding, inclusion, and community interest are never an afterthought

What We Are Looking For

You will bring:

• A strong professional background in finance, budgeting, and strategic financial planning
• Confident, values-led leadership with the ability to represent the CIC's mission at board level
• A background in leadership, social impact, or community outreach
• Experience in creative direction, entrepreneurship, or project leadership
• Understanding of organisational strategy, stakeholder engagement, and partnership development
• A genuine commitment to systemic change and the communities we serve

It would be great if you also have:

• Governance experience such as trustee, governor, or board-level involvement, though this is not essential
• Experience in a charity, CIC, or grassroots organisation
• Training and induction will be provided for the right candidate

Please Note:  

This role is open to graduate and university students (aged 18+) who are looking to gain real leadership and governance experience. If you are early in your career and passionate about community impact, we want to hear from you. Ongoing support will be provided.