Volunteer trustee volunteer roles

Role Purpose

The Deputy Head of Ethics & Research Reporting is a senior volunteer leadership role designed to provide strategic and operational resilience across the department. This role will initially serve as Interim Head of Ethics & Research Reporting during the Head of Department’s leave of absence, assuming full leadership responsibilities. When the Head returns in May, the Deputy will transition into the standard Deputy Head role, continuing to provide leadership continuity, oversight and support.

The Deputy Head works across both the Ethics Team and the Research Reporting Team, ensuring that ethical standards, research integrity and high‑quality reporting are upheld across all departmental activity.

Key Responsibilities

During Interim Headship (until May)

• Provide full strategic and operational leadership for the Ethics & Research Reporting Department.

• Set departmental priorities, oversee planning and ensure alignment with organisational strategy.

• Lead and motivate Senior Managers, Managers and wider departmental volunteers.

• Ensure ethical governance, research integrity and responsible data practices across all projects.

• Oversee departmental performance, reporting regularly to C‑Level leadership and Trustees.

• Maintain oversight of departmental budgets, costs and resource needs in collaboration with relevant teams.

• Ensure GDPR compliance and good data‑handling practices across the department.

• Identify and mitigate risks, ensuring safe, ethical and compliant operations.

• Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures and quality standards.

• Ensure accurate, timely reporting and documentation across both Ethics and Research Reporting functions.

After Transition to Deputy Head (from May onwards)

• Support the Head of Department in delivering strategic and operational leadership.

• Provide continuity, stability and leadership resilience across the department.

• Lead delegated strategic initiatives or operational areas as assigned by the Head of Department.

• Share responsibility for departmental planning, performance monitoring and reporting.

• Support Senior Managers and Managers, offering guidance, oversight and problem‑solving support.

• Contribute to departmental policy development, risk management and quality assurance.

• Act as a key point of contact for cross‑departmental collaboration and organisational alignment.

• Step into leadership when required to ensure smooth, uninterrupted departmental operations.

Competency Requirements (Deputy Head)

To succeed in this senior volunteer leadership role, the Deputy Head should demonstrate:

• Strategic leadership capability, with the ability to translate organisational goals into departmental plans.

• Advanced ethical awareness, including deep understanding of research ethics, integrity and responsible data management.

• Clear, confident communication, suitable for volunteers, senior leaders and Trustees.

• Collaborative leadership, fostering a positive, inclusive and supportive departmental culture.

• Professionalism and integrity, modelling fairness, consistency and ethical behaviour.

• Sound judgement and decision‑making, especially in complex or sensitive ethical scenarios.

• Operational oversight skills, including planning, resource management and performance monitoring.

• Risk awareness, with the ability to identify, assess and mitigate ethical, operational and reputational risks.

• Ability to support and develop others, including Senior Managers, Managers and wider volunteers.

• Commitment to GDPR compliance, responsible data handling and good governance practices.

• Adaptability, particularly during the interim leadership period and subsequent transition.

Role Requirements (Deputy Head)

Given the seniority and responsibility of this volunteer role, the following experience is required:

• A PhD is required, along with postdoctoral research experience, or significant academic or practical research experience at an equivalent level, demonstrating advanced expertise in research design, ethics, governance or reporting.

• Substantial experience in research ethics, research governance or research leadership, ideally across multiple projects or teams.

• Experience in strategic planning, departmental oversight or senior‑level decision‑making, whether in a volunteer, academic or professional context.

• A strong track record of ethical decision‑making, particularly in roles where judgement, integrity and risk assessment were central.

• Experience with research reporting, research communication or academic publication processes is highly beneficial.

• A strong interest in ethical governance, research integrity and maintaining high standards across research projects.

• Familiarity with GDPR and responsible data management practices, or willingness to develop this knowledge quickly.

• Experience working with volunteers or mixed‑experience teams is advantageous.

Trustee (Non‑Executive Board Member) – Mitie Foundation

Location: UK (meetings in person at The Shard, London)
Time commitment: Approximately 4 Board meetings per year plus occasional sub‑committee/ambassadorial commitments; preparation required for papers and strategic discussion
Term: Three years, renewable once (subject to Board agreement)
Start date: April 2026

The Mitie Foundation is looking for passionate and purpose‑driven Trustees to join its Board. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who want to use their professional expertise to make a meaningful social impact and help people across the UK access brighter, more sustainable futures.

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in guiding the Foundation’ as they enter new strategic phase, supporting inclusive employment programmes, and ensuring the charity delivers real, measurable change. You’ll collaborate with a committed Board, engage with senior leaders across Mitie, and contribute to initiatives that help people build confidence, develop skills and move into meaningful work.

Whether your background is in business, charity leadership, social value, finance, HR, community engagement or lived experience of overcoming employment barriers — your insights could influence national‑level social impact.

This is a rewarding, purpose‑led role where your contribution truly matters — helping to shape programmes, strengthen governance, and open doors for individuals who need it most.

About the Mitie Foundation
The Mitie Foundation is the independent charitable arm associated with Mitie Group which was established in 2013 to create meaningful, sustainable opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.
The Foundation delivers programmes that improve employability, inclusion and opportunity for people facing barriers to work, collaborating with partners, communities and colleagues to create measurable social value.

Help shape a charity that unlocks potential, removes employment barriers, and creates life‑changing opportunities.

Purpose of the role
Trustees work collectively to ensure the Mitie Foundation is well governed, financially sound, and achieving its charitable purposes. The Board provides strategic direction, oversight and constructive challenge so the Foundation delivers meaningful social impact while operating with integrity and independence.

We are seeking Trustee’s within the following key areas to support and form the Mitie Foundation Board;

• Finance & Risk Trustee – bringing specialist financial governance expertise, oversight of risk management, and assurance in line with Charity Commission expectations. 

• Trustee with Lived Experience – ensuring the views, needs, and realities of the communities we serve are represented at Trustee Board level. Anticipated to Chair a lived experience working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance. 

• Campaigns & Events Trustee – providing expertise in public engagement, fundraising, and brand-led campaigns to support the Foundation’s growth and visibility. Anticipated to Chair a campaigns and engagement working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance. 

• Inclusive Hiring Trustee – contributing specialist knowledge in fair-chance recruitment and employment pathways, supporting the Foundation’s commitment to inclusive hiring and social mobility. Anticipated to Chair a referral partner working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance. 

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & governance: Shape and review the Foundation’s vision, mission and strategy; ensure alignment with charitable objects and Charity Commission guidance, uphold high standards of transparency and accountability.
• Oversight & assurance: Monitor performance against strategic priorities, outcomes and impact measures; approve budgets, management accounts and the statutory report and accounts; oversee risk management and ensure compliance with governing document, law and regulation.
• Executive support & challenge: Provide guidance and robust, respectful challenge to the Head of Foundation and team; maintain a clear distinction between governance and operations; participate in leadership appraisal/objective‑setting where appropriate.
• Representation & advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the Foundation within Mitie Group and externally; use professional networks to build partnerships and unlock opportunities for collaboration, funding or volunteering; protect and promote the Foundation’s independence and reputation.
• Conduct & integrity: Promote equality, diversity and inclusion across governance and programmes; uphold the Seven Nolan Principles of Public Life—selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Person specification
The Board seeks a balanced mix of skills and backgrounds; individual trustees will bring some (not all) of the following:

• Strategic or senior leadership experience in business, charity or public sector
• Charity governance and/or financial oversight
• Expertise in one or more of: HR, social value, finance, legal, ESG, communications, or programme delivery
• Ability to analyse complex information and contribute to sound, evidence‑based decisions
• Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to collaborative, inclusive Board culture
• A demonstrable passion for social impact, employability and inclusion aligned to our mission

Eligibility, standards and conflicts

• Candidates must be eligible to serve as a charity trustee under the Charities Act and willing to declare/ manage conflicts of interest, particularly given the Foundation’s corporate linkage.
• Appointment is subject to reference and other checks as appropriate to the role and the Foundation’s policies.
• Trustees are expected to prepare for meetings, attend regularly and contribute actively to collective decision‑making.

Remuneration and expenses
This is a non‑executive, pro‑bono trustee role. Reasonable expenses incurred in the course of duties will be reimbursed in line with policy.

What if being a Trustee was one of the most meaningful leadership roles you ever took on? At REMAP, we believe everyone deserves the chance to live with greater independence.

Each year, our volunteers design and create bespoke equipment free of charge for more than 3,000 disabled people across the UK. From simple adaptations that restore confidence to complex custom solutions that change daily life, every project starts with listening to the individual.

As we continue to grow our impact, we’re now recruiting new Trustees to join our Board.

We’re particularly interested in people with experience in:
• Finance and strategic oversight 
• Health and clinical practice, especially Occupational Therapy
• Lived experience of being disabled or caring for someone with a disability

Experience in charity or nonprofit finance is particularly valuable, especially in fund stewardship, governance, and financial resilience, but we also welcome applicants from commercial or public-sector backgrounds who bring strong financial leadership skills.

Or do you have a clinical and health background, particularly as an Occupational Therapist, to bring professional insight to our Board? Your experience can help shape safe, effective, person-centred solutions at a national level and strengthen how we work alongside health professionals.

We are keen to hear from disabled people and carers who can bring lived experience to our Board, helping ensure everything we do at REMAP remains grounded in real needs and real lives.

You don’t need previous board experience. We’re looking for people who bring insight, curiosity, and a commitment to strong governance and inclusive services.

Trustees play a vital role in shaping our strategy, supporting sustainability, and ensuring disabled people remain at the heart of everything we do.

If you’d like an informal conversation or know someone who might be a great fit, please get in touch:

Start your board journey with Citizens Advice LeicesterShire

We are looking for a Board Associate to join our team. This is a unique, developmental role designed to give you firsthand experience of how a charity board operates while you build the skills and confidence to become a Trustee in the future.

Who We are:

Citizens Advice LeicesterShire is an independent and local non-profit organisation. Our purpose is “Sharing knowledge to transform lives”. By listening to the needs of our communities and clients, we act to provide accessible, high-quality information, advice and education to anyone who needs it. We empower individuals with the tools and support they need to build resilience and thrive. By working in partnership with national and local organisations, we’re able to advocate for a fairer society, amplifying the voices of those often unheard. We demonstrate and uphold our values: we care, we help, we excel and we challenge to achieve positive outcomes for the people we help. Last year we supported over 31,000 people across Leicester and Leicestershire, securing them £14 million in additional income.

What is a Board Associate?

Think of this as a “governance apprenticeship”. You won’t carry the legal liability of a Trustee just yet, but you will be right at the heart of the action.

You will work closely with our CEO, Chair and Trustees to support the smooth running of the board. Your role will involve:

• Supporting board effectiveness: Helping to arrange meetings, prepare agendas and keep accurate records of our decisions.
• Learning by doing: Observing board discussions, participating in strategic projects and understanding how we make decisions that affect thousands of people.
• Governance support: Helping ensure we meet our legal requirements and monitoring the implementation of board actions.

What we offer you

We don’t expect you to be an expert from day one. This role is about your growth. You will receive:

• Mentoring: Direct support from experienced board members.
• Board-level exposure: A rare opportunity to see inside the strategic engine room of a major local charity.
• Skill development: Build your experience in leadership, strategy, and governance—a huge asset for your CV.
• Training: We’ll help you learn about charity law and board procedures.

What we’re looking for

You don’t need previous board experience. We are looking for someone who is organised, eager to learn, and shares our values: We Care, We Help, We Excel, We Challenge.

You might be a great fit if you have:

• Strong organisational and planning skills.
• An interest in how charities or businesses are run.
• The ability to exercise good judgment and act independently.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled people, those with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, as we want our leadership to reflect the diverse communities we serve.

Practical details

• Role Type: Volunteer (Non-Executive).

• Time Commitment: Approximately 3.5 hours every two months for board meetings (usually evenings), plus some additional time for prep or projects. We can be flexible.

• Location: Meetings are typically face-to-face in Leicestershire.

• Expenses: All reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.

Closing date for applications: 1st March 2026

Planned date(s) for interviews: 23rd March 2026

To apply, please read our trustee information pack, full role description and complete the application form on our website.

Are you a finance professional looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of young Londoners? By joining our Board, you will help shape financial strategy, strengthen organisational resilience, and ensure that CYP can continue to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for all its members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Oversight: Monitor the financial health of the project and report to the Board.
• Budgeting: Oversea annual budgets and ensure we stay on track.
• Compliance: Oversee annual accounts and ensure we meet Charity Commission/Companies House requirements.
• Mentorship: (Optional but great) Occasionally advise our young leaders on basic financial literacy or project budgeting. 

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

We need someone who is organised, communicative, and shares our values.

• Financial Expertise: A background in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial management (qualified or part-qualified is a plus).
• London Local: Someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing young people in London today.
• Clarity: The ability to explain financial matters to non-finance trustees in plain English.
• Commitment: A desire to help a small, high-impact organisation scale sustainably.

WHY JOIN US?

• Make an Impact: Directly influence the success of a project that changes lives in your community.
• Governance Experience: Build your CV with high-level Board experience.
• Networking: Connect with a diverse group of passionate professionals and community leaders.

We’re looking for a Treasurer to provide financial leadership to our charity that supports the VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) sector in Wakefield District through high-impact contracts and grant making.

Nova is a charity that works with charities, community groups and social enterprises to help them thrive and continue their important work across the District. We do this by:

• Providing free specialist support on development and growth
• Ensuring the VCSE sector has a voice in decision-making
• Securing resources and funding for the VCSE sector

We have several opportunities open to join our Board of Trustees, including a Treasurer.

The Treasurer works closely with the Board, CEO, Finance Manager, and accountant to ensure our organisation’s finances are well-managed, transparent, and aligned with strategic goals. This involves:

• Guiding financial decisions
• Helping the Board understand and act on financial information
• Contributing to planning for the future, including budgets, reserves and exploring new incomes streams and enterprising approaches to strengthen Nova’s financial resilience

While previous experience as a Treasurer or Trustee is welcomed, it’s not essential. What matters most is commitment to Nova’s values, financial integrity, and supporting the VCSE sector.

As a trustee, you’ll have:

• An induction, training and reimbursable expenses
• Professional development with new skills and experience
• Influence to shape innovative projects
• Opportunity to make a difference to hundreds of organisations facing challenging times
• Chance to make new connections and learn about the local VCSE sector

To find about more about the role, download the Information Pack and Role Description. We can arrange an informal chat with Hayley (Vice Chair and Chair of HR Subcommittee) if you'd like to ask any questions before applying.

Applications close at 9am on Monday 2 March 2026.

The diversity of our board is important as it leads to strong leadership and governance. This is a priority for Nova and we are committed to removing barriers that often exclude people from applying or staying on boards. We are striving to be an accessible and inclusive organisations and will work proactively on adjustments requested. Please contact our team if you need support or adjustments throughout the recruitment process to make it accessible for you.

Company Secretary – Board of Trustees - VOLUNTEER

4–8 hours per month | Shoreditch, London | Start‑Up Youth Social Mobility Charity

About REMIX

REMIX is a start‑up, youth‑led social mobility charity transforming young lives across London. Based in Shoreditch, we empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to unlock their potential, build confidence, and develop essential life skills through nurturing mentorship, inspiring role models, and transformative opportunities.

We’re in the exciting early stages of building something bold, vibrant, and community‑powered — and we’re looking for a Company Secretary who wants to help shape a movement from the ground up.

The Role

We are seeking an organised, detail‑driven, and values‑led Company Secretary to join our Board of Trustees and support REMIX’s governance during this crucial start‑up phase. As a young charity, we are building our systems, policies, compliance processes, and long‑term governance structures — and your role will be central to ensuring we grow with clarity, accountability, and confidence.

Time commitment: 4–8 hours per month, including:

• Bi‑monthly Board meetings

• Working groups and sub‑committees

• Company Secretary duties, preparation, and governance responsibilities

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys structure, clarity, and good governance — and who believes deeply in youth empowerment and social mobility.

Key Responsibilities

As Company Secretary, you will:

• Ensure REMIX meets its legal, regulatory, and constitutional obligations as a start‑up charity.

• Maintain accurate records, including minutes, registers, filings, and governance documents.

• Support the Chair and Board in preparing agendas, papers, and meeting schedules.

• Oversee timely submissions to the Charity Commission and Companies House.

• Help develop and maintain governance policies, procedures, and frameworks.

• Ensure Trustees understand their duties and receive the information they need to make informed decisions.

• Support the smooth running of Board meetings and ensure actions are tracked and completed.

• Uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need previous Company Secretary experience — we welcome people stepping into governance roles for the first time. What matters most is your organisational strength, your commitment to young people, and your ability to support a start‑up charity with clarity and care.

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about social mobility, youth empowerment, and fairness.

• Organised, detail‑focused, and reliable.

• Confident with documentation, record‑keeping, and compliance.

• Comfortable in start‑up environments where systems are still being built.

• A clear communicator who can support Trustees and ensure smooth governance.

• Compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and community‑minded.

Experience in charity governance, administration, legal compliance, or organisational development is beneficial — but not essential if you bring strong organisational skills and a willingness to learn.

Why Join REMIX?

• Play a central role in shaping the governance foundations of a start‑up charity with huge potential.

• Help build a movement that champions equity, compassion, and opportunity.

• Influence governance, culture, and long‑term sustainability from day one.

• Work with passionate Trustees and volunteers who care deeply about young people.

• Gain experience in charity governance, compliance, and organisational leadership.

• Make a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of young Londoners.

This is your chance to build the governance backbone of a movement.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

REMIX

To Empower. To Inspire. To Transform.

Treasurer – Board of Trustees - VOLUNTEER

4–8 hours per month | Shoreditch, London | Start‑Up Youth Social Mobility Charity

About REMIX

REMIX is a start‑up, youth‑led social mobility charity transforming young lives across London. Based in Shoreditch, we empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to unlock their potential, build confidence, and develop essential life skills through nurturing mentorship, inspiring role models, and transformative opportunities.

We’re in the exciting early stages of building something bold, vibrant, and community‑powered — and we’re looking for a Treasurer who wants to help shape a movement from the ground up.

The Role

We are seeking a committed, detail‑driven, and values‑led Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and oversee REMIX’s financial governance during this crucial start‑up phase. As a young charity, we are building our financial systems, policies, and long‑term sustainability — and your expertise will be central to ensuring we grow with integrity, transparency, and confidence.

Time commitment: 4–8 hours per month, including:

• Bi‑monthly Board meetings

• Working groups and sub‑committees

• Treasurer duties, financial oversight, and preparation

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building strong foundations, thrives in early‑stage environments, and believes deeply in youth empowerment and social mobility.

Key Responsibilities

As Treasurer, you will:

• Oversee REMIX’s financial strategy, ensuring strong financial governance during our start‑up phase.

• Lead on budgeting, financial planning, and monitoring cashflow with the Board, Founder and CEO.

• Ensure accurate, timely financial reporting in line with charity regulations and best practice.

• Support the development of financial systems, controls, and policies as the charity grows.

• Present financial information clearly and accessibly to Trustees with varying levels of financial experience.

• Work with the Board to ensure REMIX remains financially sustainable and mission‑aligned.

• Contribute to risk management, reserves planning, and long‑term financial decision‑making.

• Uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need to have been a Treasurer before — we welcome people stepping into a governance role for the first time. What matters most is your financial confidence, your commitment to young people, and your ability to support a start‑up charity with clarity and care.

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about social mobility, youth empowerment, and fairness.

• Financially literate and comfortable with budgets, reporting, and analysis.

• Confident in governance, compliance, and strategic financial thinking.

• Comfortable in start‑up environments where systems are still being built.

• Compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and community‑minded.

• Organised, reliable, and committed to our mission.

Experience in finance, accounting, charity finance, or organisational development is essential as we need someone to bring strong financial skills and experience.

Why Join REMIX?

• Play a central role in shaping the financial foundations of a start‑up charity with huge potential.

• Help build a movement that champions equity, compassion, and opportunity.

• Influence governance, culture, and long‑term sustainability from day one.

• Work with passionate Trustees and volunteers who care deeply about young people.

• Gain leadership experience in charity finance, governance, and strategic planning.

• Make a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of young Londoners.

This is your chance to build the financial heartbeat of a movement.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

To Empower. To Inspire. To Transform.

REMIX

Role

Help clients understand and act on problems with debt, benefits, housing, or employment.

Support clients with forms, budgeting, and calls to service providers

Research solutions for clients’ problems and explain options clearly.

Our volunteer advisers talk to clients over the phone, face to face and

online to explore what issues they’ve come for help with and find

information about possible options. Advisers then help clients to

understand the information, and support them to take action.

You’ll also record case details on our computer system and spot common issues. The role offers full training and the chance to develop useful skills while making a difference in your community.

Commitment: 8 hours/week (flexible)

What you gain: Communication skills, hands-on experience and full training and support provided.

.

Message from the Chair of Trustees

The Trustees represent different backgrounds and experiences, but what pulls us together is a

commitment to SEED’s work on the ground in Madagascar. Several of us have been to Madagascar

and have either volunteered or worked with SEED, so we have seen first-hand how important our

work is, and the positive impact SEED has in the communities we serve. Madagascar is an

extraordinary country with exceptional biodiversity but has severely lacking infrastructure and a

high level of anthropogenic threats due to extreme poverty and considerable dependence on

natural resources.

We are looking forward to welcoming a new Chair of our Board of Trustees to join the amazing

team of dedicated staff and volunteers who are delivering sustainable development, conservation

and community work through a range of projects based on local needs. The current Chair has been

in post since 2022 and served as a Trustee for 2 years prior to that. A change of leadership and a

fresh perspective is timely and will ensure we approach the next phase of our growth and

development with new ideas. You will be assured of a warm and supportive welcome with the

benefit of a team containing years of experience, combined with new members who bring global

expertise in their field.

SEED is growing thanks to successful marketing, fundraising project development and delivery. We

are now looking to build on our implementation of our strategic plan, to deliver sustainable

development for the people of southeastern Madagascar. We are privileged to work with its

wonderful people, and we hope that you will want to join us.

Introduction to SEED

SEED has been working in the southeast corner of Madagascar for over 20 years. SEED stands for Sustainable, Environment, Education and Development and we focus on building meaningful, sustainable change in one the poorest regions of one the poorest countries in the world.

Our projects range from school building to maternal health, from Agroforestry to Lemur Conservation and rights.

We are active on social media where you can find us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube. The majority of our staff are Malagasy, working in Fort Dauphin to design and deliver projects on the ground, alongside our international team, who bring external expertise and international best practices. In Madagascar, we have 95 staff in total (70 Malagasy and 25 international). They are supported by a small UK-based and remote working team of 10.

Governance structures

SEED’s Board of Trustees has 8 members, including the Chair, who meet quarterly. There are three sub-committees of the board focusing on: Audit and Risk; Marketing and Fundraising; and HR. These are chaired by a Trustee and consist of at least one other Trustee and up to two of the Senior Management team. We also have lead Trustees for Safeguarding and Whistleblowing.

The Board is international with Trustees based in a number of different countries, so the Board works remotely.

The operations are run by the Managing Director and the Director of Programmes and Operations who are both long standing senior managers.

The Chair of Trustees role

Chair of Trustee Board

In addition to the general role of Trustee, the Chair of SEED’s Board of Trustees holds overall accountability for the charity delivering its mission. Working closely with the Board and the staff senior team , they will provide leadership and direction to ensure SEED fulfils its charitable aims and objectives and abides by its governing documents and relevant legislation. They will work collaboratively with board members and senior management to ensure SEED delivers maximum benefit to the communities it serves.

Chair Role Description

Terms and conditions: Voluntary role

Responsible to: Board of Trustees

Base: The Board works remotely

Line manager of: Managing Director

Overview of SEED

SEED Madagascar is a successful, growing British Charity working in partnership with communities in the southeast of Madagascar. We integrate high-quality community health, rural livelihoods, schools and conservation programmes to support long term, sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication.

SEED has been working in Madagascar for over 20 years and has a wide range of impactful projects ranging from school building to sexual health, from beekeeping to improving lemur habitats. More recently, SEED has been working to address the famine in the southeast with emergency food distribution.

Employing most of its staff in Madagascar, SEED also engages international staff and interns as well as running a volunteer programme. Full details of our operations can be found on our website which includes our annual report and accounts, fundraising advice and information on our staff and Trustees.

The role will carry the usual responsibilities of a Trustee as defined by the England and Wales Charity Commission and we encourage all applicants to read through this prior to making an application.

Accountability:

As a Trustee you are responsible and liable for the governance and functioning of the charity and are accountable in varying degrees to a variety of stakeholders including service users, members, funders, the Charity Commission, and Companies House.

SEED Trustees should uphold the fiduciary duty required of all charity trustees to act in the best interests of both current and future beneficiaries of the charity, being held personally liable for any breach of that duty.

Key Responsibilities

• To ensure that the Board of Trustees understands and fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation
• To provide strategic oversight and ensure that all decisions are taken in the best interests of SEED and its charitable aims.
• To provide leadership for the Board of Trustees in their role of developing and agreeing the strategy of the organisation.
• To ensure that SEED has the effective policies and procedures needed to function properly, legally and safely including those for safeguarding, whistleblowing and anticorruption.
• To effectively chair the Board meetings, facilitating debate and bringing about consensus and clear decision making.
• To work with the Board to bring about strong and constructive working relationships and sharing of the workload across the areas of expertise.
• To oversee the membership of and effective working of the subcommittees
• To build and maintain a constructive and supportive working relationship with the MD. To be overall line manager for the MD, assessing their performance and discussing development needs with them.
• To work closely with the MD to support them in achieving the vision of the organisation ensuring they have the support needed for the effective running of SEED and bring scrutiny as needed so they are held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives.
• To plan with the MD the annual cycle of Board meetings, setting agendas and monitoring the decisions taken at meetings are enacted.
• To review the Board’s performance and composition to ensure that SEED has a diverse, high performing Board working together in support of SEEDs strategy and Charitable objectives.
• To support recruitment and onboarding of new members to the board as needed to ensure continuity of the board responsibilities.
• To work with each Trustee to support them fulfilling their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity.
• To ensure the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities.
• To lead the Board in fulfilling its duties to ensure the sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to verify financial accountability and that SEED is operating within the legal and financial guidelines set out in the current legislation
• To represent the interests of the board and charity externally as and when needed

Person specification

• Knowledge and understanding of the role and responsibilities of a Chair of a Charity and Board Membership – experience as a board member as a minimum
• An understanding and experience of strategic planning within the corporate or charity setting.
• A proven leader with the ability to think strategically and creatively and to challenge proposals with clear logical thinking
• A strong commitment and passion for international development and an understanding of this sector, ideally able to bring experience of working within it.
• Demonstrable alignment to the charity’s mission, vision, and values
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience of people management and able to build strong relationships with people who are working on a voluntary basis at senior level
• An understanding of, or a willingness to understand, the strategic, legislative, political and cultural contexts that affect and influence SEED’s work
• Enthusiasm and commitment to equality and diversity in all aspects of SEED’s work
• An interest in Madagascar and an understanding of the challenges of working within different cultures and environments
• Be able to work to and advocate for all of SEED’s policies and procedures, safeguarding those that SEED works with and investigating and/or reporting any concerns appropriately

SEED Madagascar actively encourages equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and aims to create a working environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination, where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued

Time commitments and requirements

There are a minimum of four Board meetings per year with the potential for additional Board meetings and Trustee only discussions. The Chair will discuss and agree the agenda in advance with the Managing Director, Chair the meeting and ensure follow up actions take place. These meetings are on a Sunday, are virtual and typically last 3 hours.

The Chair will participate on one sub-committee which has its own quarterly cycle of meetings. The Chair will manage the MD and have regular discussions about progress and undertake the annual review process. The Chair and all Trustees are required to undertake mandatory training as part of their induction and regular updates and additional training. The Chair will work with the Board to ensure each member is taking an active part in the Board and sub committees.

The Trustee Board are encouraged to have one trustee a year take a trip to Madagascar to familiarise themselves with the environment the SEED works in and to meet and get to know the staff in country (some expenses will be covered).

The Deputy Treasurer aids the Treasurer in fulfilling their duties. The Treasurer is responsible for overseeing financial strategy, governance, and compliance. The Treasurer role exists to ensure that the Pagan Federation’s finances are kept in good order and that we remain a financially sustainable organisation which supports its members effectively and meets its aims and objectives. This also includes ensuring that the PF meets its statutory obligations by submitting annual returns and accounts to the Charity Commission, and advising the Board on financial matters. This is a critical role which requires a financial background, preferably in non-profit/charity accounting. The Deputy Treasurer also aids the Treasurer in managing a team of treasurers who each maintain and keep appropriate financial records for individual teams within the Pagan Federation. 

Your line manager is the Treasurer.

You must not have an IVA, bankruptcy or conviction to apply for this role.

You will help the Treasurer to:

• Lead on financial strategy, ensuring alignment with the charity’s objectives and sustainability. This includes overseeing the production of an annual budget and propose its adoption at the last meeting of the previous financial year. 
• Ensure the charity has an appropriate reserves policy and finance manual.
• Liaise with relevant staff, trustees and/or volunteers to ensure the financial viability of the organisation and that all record keeping is kept in accordance with relevant legal requirements.
• Make trustees aware of their financial obligations and take a lead in interpreting financial data to them.
• Regularly report the financial position at trustee meetings (balance sheet, cash flow, fundraising performance etc).
• Monitor financial risks and recommend mitigation strategies 

Ensure compliance with specific legal and regulatory requirements including the submission of annual returns and accounts to the Charity Commission.  This includes:

• Overseeing the preparation of the annual report and accounts in line with charity law.

• Ensuring the annual report and accounts are independently examined or audited as required

• Timely submission of annual report and accounts to the Charity Commission

Ensure proper records are kept and that effective financial procedures and controls are in place, ie:

• Cheque signatories

• Purchasing limits

• Purchasing systems

• Petty cash/ float

• Others as appropriate
   

You will also:

• Appraise the financial viability of plans, proposals and feasibility studies.

• Lead on appointing and liaising with auditors/an independent examiner.

• Undertake bookkeeping duties and/or oversee the finance volunteer(s) ensuring posting and bookkeeping is kept up-to-date.

• Maintain the petty cash system and regularly process petty cash claims.

• Regularly carry out reconciliations/ oversee regular reconciliations.

• Arrange payments to creditors as appropriate and arrange appropriate signatures on payments.

• Raise invoices for paid services provided by us, i.e. advertising space in Pagan Dawn.

• Make the necessary arrangements to collect payments from debtors and bank payments promptly.

• Provide training and guidance on financial procedures and compliance

You will welcome clients and visitors, and support the smooth running of our local office at our drop in sessions on Mondays or Thursdays (or both)

Commitment: 6 hours/week (flexible)

Receptionists are the first point of contact for clients, welcoming visitors. You’ll record client details on our computer system, explain waiting times, and help ensure the service runs smoothly. The role builds communication, IT, and teamwork skills while making a real difference in the community. Full training and expense reimbursement are provided.

What you gain: Communication skills, admin experience, confidence using IT, and full training.

You'll gain valuable transferable skills in communication, problem solving, teamwork.

Whether you are starting out, changing career, retired, or returning to work, volunteering strengthens your CV and provides practical experience.

Treasurer for Age Concern Twyford & District

Do you have an interest in helping our charity that supports older people in our community?

If you have a head for financial matters, you could add to and assist our trustees’ management of our finances.                      

Initially set up in 1988, we are an independent local charity (Charitable Incorporated Organisation No. 11163722) that promotes and maintains independent living for older residents in and around our local community. We are not affiliated with any similar organisations, but work closely with other Wokingham Borough-based charities and support organisations.

We provide a Day Centre with activities, lunches and optional take-home meals, activities including arts, singing and dancing, plus a range of support services including assistance with form-filling, handypersons and a listening ear to support families.

In 2024/25, our income was £250k, a small rise on previous years, and our services and facilities remain well-used and very well-appreciated in our community.

The Role

We are a small and collaborative trustee team, working closely with the staff in the centre to provide a service to our local community. Our Board includes some people with experience and skills in the services we provide to older people or other professions, and we’d expect trustees to have empathy with our cause and our beneficiaries. 

Although we’d welcome your financial qualification, that’s not a requirement, as our finances aren’t complex. An understanding of how charity finance works would be beneficial of course, with the ability to communicate financial information clearly, especially to other trustees, being important. Support from our employees is always available, as they will be dealing with the day-to-day finances.

You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, as advice from local charity-support organisations is always available. Full induction to our organisation will be provided, plus specialist help as a new trustee, including access to external training.

​We are a charity not a commercial business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for fresh expertise and experience from a variety of backgrounds to our charity. We want to expand the diversity of our Board and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups. 

​The focus of a trustee role is strategic, and trustees will not be expected to get involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis; however, contact and liaison with other trustees and employees is expected.   

​We ask for about five hours per month, which includes all meetings, discussions, etc., although that time commitment will rise at year-end and for our AGM.
You will need access to digital communications, as some our charity’s business is run that way.

This appointment is being assisted for us by involve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who can supply you with a detailed Role Description and Skills Specification, and offer advice about trusteeship, even assist your application. Click "Apply Now" below to find out more.

2makeit is a charity that helps rehabilitate prisoners and ex-prisoners by offering them creative expression through programmes in skills such as music, art and writing.

Engaging with fellow prisoners, guided by experts including musicians, artists and writers, they learn how to collaborate and create, inspiring them to lead more productive and positive lives whilst in jail, and law-abiding lives on release.

2makeit is seeking an inspiring and committed Chair to lead its Board and help transform lives through creativity.

What will you be doing?

The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, in service of the charity’s vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Director. 

The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity. 

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

Time commitment is approximately 15 - 20 hours a month, which includes:

• 4 quarterly board meetings (2–3 hours each) and their preparation (usually evenings, hybrid available).
• A weekly call with the Director (approx 1 hour).
• Ad hoc sub-group meetings and documents as required (mostly online).
• Ambassadorial commitments - 2makeit events, visits to prisons, projects.

What are we looking for?

2makeit is seeking an inspiring and committed Chair to lead its Board and help transform lives through creativity.

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience: 

• Understanding of the criminal justice sector is desirable.
• Strong communication, empathy, and ability to chair meetings in a collaborative, non-authoritarian way.
• Previous Trustee experience is desirable.
• Ability to build a close working relationship with the Director.
• Availability and flexibility (some daytime commitments, some evenings).
• Passionate about prisoner and ex-prisoner wellbeing.
• Ability to foster an environment for open discussion and debate amongst trustees.
• Willingness to hold trustees and members of the organisation to account for actions they agree to undertake.

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting time to join 2makeit to help realise our vision to be part of a criminal justice sector in which creativity plays a vital role in rehabilitation.

Three areas underpin the delivery of that vision:

• Creative projects in prison
• Resettlement work in the community
• Rehabilitative exhibiting and showcasing of work

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting 2makeit withtheir Chair recruitment.

Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.

To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add
value to the board. 2makeit are happy to have an informal conversation with anyone who is interested in the role. Please contact TrusteeWorks to arrange this.