Senior public affair officer volunteer roles in Bristol

The Co-operative College is undertaking a radical change in approach, transitioning into a charity that will leave society a lasting learning legacy, run a grants programme to advance co-operative education and work closely with partners to deliver our vision for a more co-operative world. 

As we embark on this journey, we are looking for dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our Board and Committees to help shape our future.  

We are recruiting for two Trustees (one of whom we hope will serve as Vice Chair) and up to two independent members for our Audit and Risk Committee. 

While our standard Trustee Job Description applies to all roles, we are looking for specific expertise to strengthen our board in the following areas: 

1. Vice Chair (Trustee Role) x1 

We are looking for an individual with experience in chairing, facilitation, or strategic leadership. As Vice Chair, you will act as a deputy to the Chair, working with them closely to support board effectiveness. This is an ideal role for someone looking to step into a senior governance leadership position. 

2. Trustee x1 

In addition to the Vice Chair, we are seeking a Trustee who brings professional strength in at least one of the below: 

• Finance and accounting 

• Charity governance 

• Grants and investment management 

3. Independent Audit and Risk Committee Members x2 

These are non-Trustee roles - we are looking specifically for independently minded finance professionals who will bring constructive challenge and fresh perspectives. We are looking for applicants with experience in at least one of the below: 

• Finance and accounting (qualified or part-qualified, highly desirable) 

• Grants management 

• Investment management 

As an educational charity, we believe in the power of learning. New appointees will be signposted to relevant training and will take part in our induction programme, so that they feel confident in contributing their unique skills and experiences. They will also have the opportunity of being appointed a buddy, who can support them as they begin their time with us.

Closing Date:

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and applications will be reviewed as they are received.

The Role:

We are currently seeking a Finance Trustee to join our Board as Treasurer. It’s a voluntary role that requires a committed individual with financial expertise to take a collaborative approach, supporting our Trustees, our Head of Finance and Governance, and our management team to oversee the financial affairs of our charity and ensure that they are legal, constitutional, and within accepted accounting practice.

Our Organisation:

Greener and Cleaner delivers locally but thinks, and influences, nationally. Our vision is greener, healthier, better connected communities across the UK. We seek to achieve this through normalising 360-degree sustainable living, bringing the community together to make changes that can deliver a big impact. We have a non-judgemental peer-to-peer approach, so that all elements of the community feel empowered to take action in how they live, work, and play and in how they use their voice to push for change.

Treasurer Role:

The primary role is to ensure alongside other Trustees that they accept ultimate responsibility for the affairs of G&C and ensure that it is solvent, well run, and delivering the charitable outcomes for which it has been set up. As well as fulfilling the duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer ensures that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls, and procedures are put in place and reports to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.

• Overseeing the presentation of budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements, as produced by the finance team or others where appropriate, to the Board of Trustees
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place. 
• Liaising with any paid staff about financial matters, as appropriate.
• Ensuring that robust and comprehensive financial policies are in place and being implemented, and supporting the development of policies covering financial reserves, and cost management. 
• Overseeing financial controls and adherence to systems. 
• Drawing any major financial concerns to the attention of the trustee and the management team.
• Ensuring that the charity has appropriate reserves in line with its reserves policy, and monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity. 
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, including overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy and that investments and assets are maximised.
• Leading on the appointment of and liaison with external auditors. 
• Overseeing the development and implementation of systems for appraising, mitigating, and reporting corporate risk. 
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by relevant statutory bodies – for example, the Charity Commission and/or the Registrar of Companies.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Supporting other Trustees in understanding the charity’s financial position and decision making.
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the charity and its ethical fundraising policy.
• Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the Annual General Meeting and drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way.

The Person We’re Looking For:

• A finance professional with a firm understanding of charity finance and some experience of fundraising and pension schemes.
• Knowledge of charity fundraising, bid writing, and/or other income generation and/or securing funding through creation or leveraging of partnerships and networks (at a national or local level).
• A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity and the skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
• Clear communicator with the ability to explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders.
• Willing to play an active role in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, and liaising with auditors.

In addition, the Treasurer will also have the responsibilities and qualities of all Trustees.

Responsibilities of All Trustees:

• Demonstrating a commitment to G&C’s objectives
• Contributing to setting the strategic goals and monitoring performance by active participation in Board discussions and decision-making
• Actively assisting the charity to build their connections and partnerships for the purposes of most effectively delivering their goals and fundraising
• Ensuring that G&C complies with its governing documents, the law, and all other relevant documentation
• Helping to identify risks and ensuring appropriate controls are in place
• Helping the Board to make sound decisions by making available their own personal knowledge and experience
• Assisting the Chair to appoint and appraise the performance of the Senior Leadership Team members
• Sharing relevant skills and expertise with the Senior Leadership Team members
• Making all reasonable efforts to attend Board meetings, away days, development meetings, publicity events, and other such public functions as requested by the Chair
• Ensuring the charity’s focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion remains at the heart of its strategy and delivery

Trustee Person Specification:

In addition to the Treasurer role specific above, our Trustees will ideally also demonstrate the following:

• A commitment to the objectives and activities of G&C
• A willingness to devote time and effort to G&C beyond attending board meetings
• Have strategic vision, an ability to think creatively, and an appropriate level of financial literacy
• Understanding of and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of their position
• Have good independent judgement
• Be willing to effectively act as part of a team
• Adhere to the Nolan Principles of public office: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership
• A willingness to allow the Employee/s to make reasonable decisions and to act within the limits prescribed by the Board

To Apply:

To see the full job advertisement with details on how to apply, and to learn more about the role and our organisation, please see the attached supporting documents.

Trustee and Treasurer
Rainbow Migration, the longest-running UK charity dedicated to supporting LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system, is seeking a trustee who will also serve as the organisation’s Treasurer.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about our vision that LGBTQI+ people can settle in the UK and lead fulfilling lives, and our mission to support LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system and influence policy and practice.

At Rainbow Migration, we don’t just accept difference – we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it. We particularly encourage applications from people who have sought asylum on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

The role of trustees and the Treasurer

Being a trustee is a rewarding role. Trustees are volunteers who bring their expertise to shape our strategy and direction, and help ensure we remain an authoritative organisation on LGBTQI+ asylum and immigration. They have overall legal responsibility for the charity, make sure our finances and resources are well used to implement our mission, and are required to participate fully in the governance of the charity. Trustees also play a role as ambassadors for the organisation and our work.

The Treasurer takes a lead role in ensuring Rainbow Migration’s financial affairs  are conducted within legal requirements, accounting conventions and good practice to ensure the financial viability and sustainable development of the organisation. A detailed role description for the role of Treasurer is appended.

Time commitment

We are looking for people who can commit to being a trustee for at least three years.

Trustees meet on a weekday evening five times per year. Meetings are usually held on Zoom except in December when we meet in person in London.

Preparation for the meetings involves a time commitment of two to four hours for detailed reading of papers, which are provided several days in advance.

The Treasurer also chairs the Finance Subcommittee, which meets on a weekday evening at the end of each quarter. The present Treasurer prepares the primary financial statements and notes, from the underlying accounting records at the year-end, for inclusion in the Annual Report and Accounts; the successful candidate will need to decide whether to continue with this approach or if there is a suitable alternative.

Key responsibilities

Financial oversight:

• Support the Trustee Board to maintain a clear and timely picture of the financial health of the organisation
• Ensure the Trustee Board and management team fulfil all required fiduciary and regulatory responsibilities
• Keep up to date on developments in charity finance regulations and best practice
• Chair the Finance Subcommittee to oversee Rainbow Migration’s financial management, ensuring robust processes and controls are in place
• Ensure the committee develops a long-term financial strategy (including a reserves policy) for the organisation, with objectives which can be monitored
• Advise the Board on financial strategy, risk management and resource allocation
• Support the Executive Director and Operations and Office Manager to develop and improve financial policies and procedures
• Work with the Executive Director, Operations and Office Manager and Fundraising Manager to monitor budgets, cash flow and financial performance
• Oversee the production of clear and accessible financial reports to the Board and its sub-committees by Rainbow Migration staff, and lead discussions during meetings

Reporting:

• Ensure regular financial reports (i.e. management accounts, annual budgets, cash flow projections, etc) are accurate, comprehensible, timely, correctly formatted, and properly discussed and understood by the Trustee Board (as required by law)
• Ensure the timely preparation of annual accounts in accordance with charity regulations (UK SORP)
• Oversee the appointment of the Independent Examiner or auditors and provide overall oversight of the annual examination or audit process

Systems and controls:

• Ensure the charity has proper systems in place for budgeting, financial control, insurance, and reporting
• Ensure compliance with all HMRC tax requirements, as appropriate

White Ribbon Alliance UK are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join as Trustees. In this role, you will be instrumental in governing our charity and ensuring we achieve our mission to promote maternal health and rights. Trustees serve for a term of three years, with the possibility of renewal at the end of the term. We are looking to fill the positions of General Trustees, Board Chair, Treasurer, and Compliance Officer. Your strategic vision, commitment, and ambassadorial efforts will be vital in driving our organisation forward and making a significant impact on the communities we serve. Below is the role description and instructions on how to apply.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Statutory Duties of a Trustee 

Trustees share ultimate responsibility for governing the charity and directing how it is managed and run. This includes: 

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

• Ensuring compliance with the governing document (constitution or articles of association), charity law, company law and other relevant legislation or regulations. 

• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects, for the benefit of the public. 

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

• Safeguarding the good name, reputation, and values of the organisation. 

• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including appropriate policies and procedures. 

• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation. 

• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of its funds. 

• Following proper arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of senior staff. 

• Scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, and providing independent, creative judgement on key issues.

• Offering advice and guidance on new initiatives, risks, or opportunities. 

Ambassadorial Contributions 

In addition to their statutory duties, Trustees are requested to use their specific skills, knowledge, networks, or experience to strengthen the board’s work according to their skills, capabilities, interests and available time. This includes: 

• Promoting the charity's mission and values: Trustees should consistently advocate for the charity's goals and principles in various settings, ensuring that the organisation's message is clearly communicated. 

• Representing the charity at external events: Trustees should attend and participate in meetings, conferences, and other events on behalf of the charity, acting as its official representatives. 

• Engaging with media: Trustees should be prepared to speak to the media about the charity's work, providing insights and information that highlight the organisation's impact and importance. 

• Leveraging personal and professional networks: Trustees should use their connections to support the charity's objectives, whether by opening doors to potential supporters, funders, collaborators, or influencers. 

• Cultivating strategic partnerships: Trustees should engage with stakeholders across healthcare, academia, government, and civil society to build and maintain relationships that benefit the charity. 

• Supporting fundraising efforts: Trustees should actively participate in fundraising activities, helping to secure the resources needed for the charity to achieve its mission. 

By fulfilling these responsibilities, trustees play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and impact of the charity, ensuring its continued success and growth. 

 Skills and Capabilities Requirements 

Trustees are expected to bring both governance capability and a willingness to champion the charity externally. Essential qualities include: 

• A commitment to the organisation’s mission and values. 

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. 

• Strategic vision and the ability to see the “big picture.” 

• Good, independent judgement and the confidence to speak one’s mind. 

• Ability to think creatively and contribute fresh ideas. 

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

• Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team. 

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

Desirable (but not essential): 

• Strong personal and professional networks, with the willingness to leverage them on behalf of the charity. 

• Experience in advocacy, fundraising, or public speaking. 

• Understanding of the wider charity, health, or social justice sectors in which White Ribbon Alliance UK operates. 

 Time Commitment 

• Statutory duties for general trustees: 8-10 days per year. 

• Statutory duties for Chair, Treasurer, and Compliance Officer: 12-14 days per year (inclusive of general trustee duties). 

Equity, diversity and inclusion

Equity and inclusion are central to White Ribbon Alliance UK’s purpose and how we work. We recognise that maternity harm, discrimination, and exclusion are produced by systems, and that governance must reflect the people most affected by those systems.

We strongly encourage applications from people who:

• Have lived experience of sexual and reproductive health and rights issues

• Are Black or from racially minoritised communities

• Are LGBTQ+, disabled, or neurodivergent or otherwise marginalised by society

• Come from communities underrepresented in charity governance

We value lived experience and community knowledge as expertise. You do not need to fit a traditional Board profile to be a strong Trustee.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require any adjustments to apply or to take part as a Trustee, we will work with you to put these in place.

Remuneration 

This is a volunteer position. Expenses incurred as part of fulfilling the role will be reimbursed.