Compliance quality volunteer roles

Ealing Book Festival is a young organisation with huge ambitions. We're looking for someone with great organisational skills and experience to join the team and help us develop and achieve our objectives.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the secretary are as follows.

·Preparing agendas in consultation with the chair and trustees and circulating them and any supporting papers in good time

·Making all the arrangements for meetings 

·       Ensuring the taking of, agreement and sign off of minutes

·Checking that trustees have carried out actions agreed at a previous meeting 

·Circulating agendas and minutes of the annual general meeting and any special or extraordinary general meetings (where required)

·Fulfilling the functions equivalent to a company secretary, assisting the chair and other trustees with charity reporting requirements, monitoring the policy register 

·Assisting the chair with board evaluation, succession planning processes and recruitment

Person specification 

In addition to the person specification for a trustee, the secretary should have the following skills, experience and qualities:

• Experience of governance and compliance procedures

• Organisational ability

• Minute-taking and report writing experience, including preparation of annual reports

• Preparation of the policy register

• Experience of board evaluation and succession planning processes 

These may have been acquired in a corporate or a charity environment. 

Honorary Secretary for Age Concern Twyford & District

Are you organised? Can you take notes for our charity Board meetings? 

Do you have an interest in supporting a charity which supports older people in our community?

About us

You could be the Honorary Secretary for Age Concern Twyford & District, a local charity whose aim is to promote and maintain independent living for older residents in and around our local area.

Initially set up in 1988, we are an independent incorporated charity. We are not affiliated with any similar organisations, but work closely with other Wokingham Borough-based charities, support organisations and local businesses.

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

In 2023/24 our income rose (again) to £206k, and our services and facilities remain well-used and very well-appreciated.

The role and what we are looking for in a new Honorary Secretary

Our Board includes people with experience and skills in supporting older people, and we’d expect our new Honorary Secretary to have empathy with our cause and our beneficiaries. 

You will need good organising skills and the ability to take notes to turn into Minutes of our meetings, but those aren’t complex or too formal. You’ll be asked to assist with our Charity Regulation and reporting to the Charity Commission, but again those are easy things to implement. In all these things, you’ll be assisted and advised by our Centre Manager and other trustees, including our new Chair of the Board.

You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, although that would be welcome. Full induction to our organisation will be provided, plus specialist support as a new trustee, including access to external training if needed.

We are a charity not a 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, in all meanings of the word, 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 up to five hours of your time per month, which includes our monthly meetings, and other discussions.  You will need good access to digital communications, as much of our charity’s business is run that way.

How to apply  

This appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer a no-obligation discussion by phone or video. A detailed Role Description and Person Specification can be made available to you upon request.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references, to completion of an online Safeguarding course and an Enhanced DBS check. 

Your CV or similar will be read by our existing trustees, and an interview offered as soon as mutually convenient.

I need to know more 

Contact Mike Allen via Quick Apply below for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams or Zoom).

We are looking for a dedicated and organised Trustee Board Administrator to help ensure the smooth running of our governance. In this role, you will take the lead in coordinating quarterly Board meetings, liaising with Trustees and the Chair to make sure everything is well-prepared and runs efficiently.

Your responsibilities will include sending out meeting invites, preparing and sharing agendas, circulating key documents, and recording accurate minutes. You will work closely with the Chair of Trustees to support effective communication across the Board and help us stay on track with our commitments.

This is a flexible, voluntary position with quarterly meetings (three online and one in person), and you will be joining a supportive group of Trustees who are passionate about improving youth mental health and guiding the strategic direction of our work.

We are looking for someone with the below qualities:

• Organised – able to manage schedules, documents, and deadlines effectively.
• Clear communicator – confident in liaising with Trustees and the Chair.
• Attention to detail – accurate in preparing agendas and recording minutes.
• Reliable – consistent in following through with agreed tasks.
• Confidential – able to handle sensitive information with discretion.

Clinks’ trustees work with our Chair and the Senior Leadership Team to ensure that we adhere to all the necessary governance and legal liabilities, and to support the charity to achieve the highest level of support to voluntary organisations who work across the criminal justice system. 

To ensure we have a range of experiences, perspectives, and skills within our board, we are particularly interested in hearing from people with knowledge of or representative of Arts organisations, and/or of Welsh organisations operating within criminal justice. We are open to trustees with a wide set of skills and experience; we are interested in hearing from people with experience and knowledge of digital, fundraising, business development and acumen, HR and employment law, and exposure to infrastructure support.

Responsibilities

You will: 

• Be a key member of our board - maintaining input, communication and bringing your skills and experience to support the Chair in all aspects of Clinks’ work. Helping to develop its future strategic plans.
• Share your knowledge and experience of criminal justice or your particular expertise, including any future policy directions. You will contribute to the development of Clinks’ future strategic priorities through experience and understanding of the changing political landscape. 
• Assist in building strong relationships between yourself, the board, the Chair, the CEO, and Clinks’ executive team, to maximise the delivery of Clinks’ strategy.
• Be committed to the values of Clinks and the voluntary sector. You will believe in the power of collaboration and collective action to achieve social change. 
• Be an ambassador - showing understanding of and supporting the importance of Clinks’ external relationships with a range of stakeholders. You will defend and promote the voluntary sector working in criminal justice at a time of challenge. 
• Provide financial oversight including a formal review of the organisation’s annual budget and supporting the Senior Leadership Team in financial management and organisation. 

An effective Trustee

• Upholds the highest standards of integrity and probity;
• Supports and contributes to Board discussions to promote effective decision-making and constructive debate;
• Promotes effective relationships and open communication, both inside and outside the Boardroom, between Directors and staff; 
• Working with the Chair to initiate change and participate in succession planning and recruitment in Board appointments; 
• Promotes the highest standards of governance;
• Ensures effective cascading of Board decisions; 
• Provides coherent leadership of the organisation, including representing the organisation;
• Ensuring the organisation pursues its objects as defined in the Memorandum of Association; and 
• Safeguards the good name and values of the organisation. 

Your pledge as a trustee will be: 

• Commitment to the organisation
• Devote the necessary time and effort: 

  • 4 x Board Meetings/year - 2 of which will be in-person

  • 4 x Subcommittee meetings/year (if applicable) 

  • Annual away day 

  • Annual conference 

  • Annual General Meeting (AGM) 

  • Occasional in-person meetings and/or Clinks events

• You will also be invited to provide ad hoc support for the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Leadership Team through emails, phone calls, and occasional in-person meetings (e.g. with funders or important stakeholders). 

• Commitment to anti-racism

• Strategic vision

• Good, independent judgement

• Ability to think creatively

• Willingness to speak their mind

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

• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

• Leadership skills

• Experience of committee work

• Tact and diplomacy   

• Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences  

• Adhere to our Trustee Code of Conduct.  

Join us as Treasurer and Trustee of Humanimal Trust

Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for good governance and a commitment to making a difference? Are you skilled at translating complex financial information into clear insights? If so, we would welcome your application to join our Board of Trustees as Treasurer. This is a pivotal role at the heart of our charity, helping to shape our strategic direction and support our mission to drive collaboration between human and animal medicine, for the benefit of both.

About the role:

The Treasurer works alongside fellow trustees and relevant staff to oversee Humanimal Trust’s financial strategy, planning and management. You will provide the Board with clear, comprehensive information to inform decisions, ensure financial systems and controls are sound, and advise on the financial implications of strategic and operational plans.

You’ll bring:

• Professional financial expertise (e.g. accounting and financial management expertise).
• A strong understanding of charity finance and governance, or a willingness to learn.
• The ability to analyse, explain and present financial information clearly to non-specialists.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Humanimal Trust.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the preparation of budgets, management accounts, financial statements and cashflow forecasts.
• Ensuring effective financial systems and controls are in place.
• Supporting compliance with relevant legislation and reporting requirements.
• Ensuring the Board understands and fulfils its financial responsibilities.
• Advising on financial risks and opportunities in relation to strategy and operations.
• Overseeing the preparation of the annual accounts and reports for submission to relevant authorities.

What’s in it for you?

• A unique opportunity to use your financial skills to make a lasting impact on healthcare for both humans and animals.
• Development of career enhancing skills and experience, including charity finance, governance and leadership.
• The opportunity to be part of a team of passionate trustees, staff, and volunteers.

Appointment term: A minimum term of three years, with the possibility of two consecutive terms (six years) in total.

Time commitment: Quarterly Board meetings, c.2h per meeting, plus preparation, with some additional input for finance-specific matters.

Preferred background, knowledge and experience: An experienced accounting professional, ideally with knowledge of charity finance

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

If you would like to use your financial skills to help drive positive change in human and animal medicine, we would love to hear from you. 

Contract/Expected Commitment - 3 years fixed-term

About us

SurvivorsUK exists for men and non-binary people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault or rape, or any survivor who thinks we’re the right service for them.

We support – by providing services such as a helpline, counselling, ISVA and groupwork.
We challenge – by raising public awareness of the issue, and dispelling myths
We build – by creating and facilitating networks for better access to help

We provide emotional support, information and signposting to survivors and anyone worried about someone they know, through a national website and webchat service (open until 8pm most evenings). Last year, 2,600 people contacted us via our webchat services and social media.

In London, we are the only organisation providing specialist services for men and boys, including individual counselling and therapeutic group work. Across London, we provide the capital’s only Independent Sexual Advisor (ISVA) Service that helps men and boys through the criminal justice system.

Purpose of Role

This is an exciting time to be joining SurvivorsUK, as we look to expand our Board with committed professionals bringing their expertise in the following roles:

• Clinical Trustee
• Fundraising Lead Trustee
• Legal Lead Trustee
• Finance Lead Trustee

The organisation is currently reviewing our strategy and our new Trustees will bring complementary skills to help shape our work and plans for the future. SurvivorsUK is a well respected and financially stable charity delivering high quality, in-demand services to our beneficiaries.

We are looking for experienced people with passion, professionalism and commitment to help ensure we continue to deliver high quality services to those we support.

Main responsibilities of all Trustees include:

• To set and maintain the vision, mission and values.
• To ensure that SurvivorsUK pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.
• To maintain proper financial control and ensure that SurvivorsUK applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives.
• To develop strategy and support the operational management of the organisation.
• To ensure that risk is assessed and managed effectively.
• To promote SurvivorsUK and its values, and act in the best interests of the charity.

To see the responsibilities and personal specification for each role, please click the specific job description below for more information:

Clinical Trustee recruitment pack
Fundraising Lead Trustee recruitment pack
Legal Lead Trustee recruitment pack
Finance Lead Trustee recruitment pack

Time Commitment

Usually there are six Board of Trustee meetings and one AGM per year. In addition, Trustees are expected to be part of a Board sub-committee.

Board meetings are generally held in the evening.

Trustees are also expected to attend occasional training and public or private events, e.g. supporter/fundraising events, strategic away days etc.

How to apply

To express an interest in the role and to be considered, please select your preferred application pack and submit the following:

• An up-to-date CV.
• A supporting statement that addresses the person specification in the recruitment pack and outlines your motivation for applying.

At SurvivorsUK, we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone is empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.

We especially encourage applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, including men, non-binary, Black, Asian, Mixed Heritage, Trans, disabled people, and those from other marginalised groups. We recognise and value the unique experiences that arise from the intersections of these identities, and we particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience or a strong understanding of the issues faced by our service users.

We also understand the importance of work-life balance and are open to discussing flexible working arrangements, including job share opportunities, to support candidates with caregiving responsibilities or other needs.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or have any accessibility needs, please let us know. We are here to provide any support necessary to ensure the process is inclusive for you.

Volunteer Chair of the Board of Trustees

Location: Birmingham

Time commitment: Around 10 hours per month

Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)

About Us

At Carrs Lane Counselling Centre Ltd, we believe that everyone deserves someone to listen. We’re a counselling charity offering warm, affordable emotional support to people in Birmingham.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to provide high quality counselling and mental health support to those who seek it, regardless of income or background. We are committed to a strategic direction of growth.

The Role

We’re looking for a new Chair of Trustees to help guide our charity through its next chapter.

As Chair, you’ll lead a small but passionate Board, ensuring we stay true to our purpose and operate with integrity and care. You’ll work closely with our Centre Manager and other Trustees to provide strategic guidance, support the team, and help us make sound decisions for the future of our counselling services.

This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who wants to make a real difference in people’s lives and help strengthen mental health support in our community.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading the Board and ensuring good governance and effective decision-making.
• Working collaboratively with fellow Trustees, staff and volunteer counsellors to shape our strategy and priorities.
• Supporting and appraising the Manager.
• Acting as an ambassador for the charity, championing our mission in the community.
• Helping us grow sustainably so we can reach more people in need.

Who You Are

We’d love to hear from you if you:

• Believe deeply in the importance of mental health and accessible, affordable counselling.
• Have experience leading people — perhaps as a trustee, senior manager, or team leader.
• Are a good communicator, listener, and relationship-builder.
• Can take a balanced, strategic view while staying grounded in our values.
• Enjoy working with others to make a positive impact.

You don’t need to be a governance expert — what matters most is your commitment, integrity, and willingness to learn. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health challenges or from backgrounds underrepresented in charity leadership.

Why Join Us

• Play a key part in supporting mental health and wellbeing in your community.
• Work alongside caring, passionate people who share your values.
• Gain valuable governance and leadership experience.
• Be part of a supportive, positive environment where your contribution really matters.

Join us in making a positive impact on young people, meeting employers’ skills needs, and supporting our communities.  Help set the strategic direction of our college, drive innovation, and support our commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.  We have two immediate vacancies and one or two further opportunities arising in 2026​.

Governors are voluntary, non-executive board members who contribute their expertise, working constructively with the executive to set strategic direction, assess performance and ensure financial sustainability. You’ll work with a dedicated team, receive training and support, and gain insights into strategic business leadership.  You’ll attend 2-3 board/committee meetings per academic term.

We’re seeking people with the enthusiasm and commitment to share their knowledge and experience to support the mission, leadership, governance of our college in an ever-evolving education environment.  We believe in the strength of a diverse governing body and welcome applicants with varied backgrounds who bring fresh perspectives.

We particularly welcome professional expertise in:

• Education – especially post-16 (FE/ HE)
• Financial oversight (commercial or public sector)
• Chairing a board or leading a complex organisation
• Legal
• Board-level governance
• Sustainability
• Property and land management

We also value experience in sectors linked to our curriculum offer or knowledge of our local and regional stakeholders.  

Read our candidate information pack for more information about the role and time commitment.

To apply for this opportunity or for an informal discussion, please visit our Governance site. 

The applications closing day is Wednesday 5 November 2025 (midnight).

Are you a committed Christian with experience in Internal Audit who has a heart to see a new generation develop a vibrant faith in Jesus Christ?

We would love to hear from you. Scripture Union is looking for an experienced Internal Auditor willing to volunteer to support the strong governance of our organisation.

The role is accountable to the Honorary Treasurer who Chairs the Audit & Finance Committee. You will work with the Audit & Finance Committee to define key areas for review.

We are an organisation with a proven track record of effective internal controls with a continuous improvement mindset. 

Please see the Job Profile to find out more and apply using the application form attached.

Make a Meaningful Impact - Join the BES Personnel Committee 

Role: Personnel Committee Member 
Organisation: British Ecological Society 
Term: 3 years 
Closing Date: 16 November 2025, 09:00 GMT 
Interview: TBC 

Are you passionate about people, strategy, and shaping the future of a thriving organisation? The British Ecological Society (BES) is inviting expressions of interest for voluntary positions on our Personnel Committee, a dynamic group that plays a vital role in guiding our people strategy and supporting the delivery of our ambitious organisational goals. 

As a registered charity and non-profit organisation, BES is dedicated to advancing ecological science and promoting the importance of ecology in addressing global challenges. We support a vibrant, inclusive community of researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts through funding, events, publications, and policy engagement. While our mission is rooted in ecology, you don’t need a background in the field to contribute, what matters most is the unique skills, perspectives, and experience you bring.

This is a unique opportunity to influence how we nurture, support, and empower our staff, ensuring our internal culture reflects the values and vision of BES. The Committee typically meets 3 times a year, with occasional additional input via email. 

Why Join? 

As a Personnel Committee member, you’ll: 

• Help shape the strategic direction of our staff resource. 

• Influence policies that support a healthy, inclusive, and high-performing workplace. 

• Collaborate with passionate professionals committed to organisational excellence. 

• Gain valuable experience in governance and strategic HR. 

• Make a real difference in how BES supports its people. 

Who We’re Looking For 

We’re seeking individuals with experience or insight in one or more of the following areas: 

• Organisational leadership, management, and strategy 

• Staff policy development 

• Organisational change or conflict management 

• Staff appraisals and performance development 

• Learning and development 

• Health & Safety in relation to HR 

• Embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion in HR practices 

We especially welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups within the ecological community and those with experience across diverse workplaces. We’re committed to forming a committee that reflects the range of experiences and backgrounds within our membership.

Ready to Get Involved? 

To learn more about the Personnel Committee, what the role involves, and how you can contribute, please explore the attached resource.

We are seeking a Finance & Audit Trustee to join our Board, someone who will play a crucial role in shaping our financial strategy, overseeing governance, and supporting our leadership team to ensure our decisions are both values-driven and financially sustainable.

If you bring professional expertise in finance, audit, or risk management, and if you share our belief in the power of second chances and the potential of every woman to thrive, we would be delighted to hear from you. Together, we can continue to build a future where every woman is safe, respected, and supported to reach her full potential.

City of Wolverhampton College is looking for dynamic and committed individuals to join its Corporation Board as Governors. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the strategic direction of a forward-thinking college whose purpose is to define futures.

Location: Wolverhampton

Time commitment: 12 hours per month

 Closing date: 9 a.m. Wednesday 12th November

Who we are

City of Wolverhampton College currently operates from two main campuses in Wolverhampton – Paget Road and Wellington Road – and delivers over 300 different qualifications through a range of full-time and part-time courses, including apprenticeships and HE. We also have specialist provisions for polymer training, rail, and electric vehicle maintenance, delivered from satellite sites at Telford, Dudley, and Bentley Bridge (Wolverhampton).  Each year, we deliver education and training to around 9,000 students.

As an education provider, the College is subject to periodic inspection by Ofsted.  The most recent inspection took place in January 2023, and the College was rated ‘Good’ overall, demonstrating the high level of quality that we deliver across the College. This is further demonstrated by our consistently high achievement rates, our growth in our student recruitment numbers and the high levels of satisfaction that both our students and our staff report.

Over recent times, we have been progressing with an exciting estate transformation project, which has already seen us extend our Wellington Road campus to include new training workshops and classrooms as part of our Construction Innovation Centre. Furthermore, in November, we will take the next step on this journey by vacating our Paget Road site and moving into a new state-of-the-art campus – the City Learner Quarter.

These estate developments are just one example of how we continue to evolve and develop our provision, ensuring that the education and training we deliver are of the highest quality whilst led by the needs of our local community, employers and stakeholders such as the West Midlands Combined Authority.

From a strategic perspective, our new strategic plan will be published soon and has been created in collaboration between our Governors and our Senior Leadership Team, led by our Principal & Chief Executive, Louise Fall, who was appointed just over a year ago.

Once this plan is published, attention will turn from development to delivery, and to do this, Louise and her colleagues across the college will be able to call upon the board for their support. Our Board is made up of a diverse range of successful strategic leaders. As our college enters a new phase of its journey, we believe now is the right time to add new perspectives and expertise to our board. As such, we now seek to appoint a number of new members who can provide this in the years ahead.

About the role

Becoming a Governor at the City of Wolverhampton College is a rewarding opportunity to use your professional skills and experience to make a tangible difference to education, our local communities, and the lives of diverse group of learners.

As a Governor, you will play a central role in shaping the future of the College, ensuring it continues to thrive and delivers high-quality education and training.

Working collectively as part of our Corporation Board, led by our Chair, Mike Hastings, you will help determine the organisational culture, educational character and strategic direction of the College, while safeguarding its financial health and long-term sustainability. For context, our annual turnover is c.£43m, and we have a formal financial health rating of Good.

Governors at the College hold responsibility for approving such things as our mission and our annual budgets, as well as overseeing the performance and remuneration of senior leaders. The Board also sets frameworks for staff pay and conditions, ensuring that the College remains an excellent place to work and study.

In our most recent external review of governance, our board was recognised as being high-performing and for ensuring that we prioritise the success and well-being of our students. The findings of this review showed our board was highly proficient and consistently had a positive impact on college strategy, effectiveness and outcomes.

Your impact as a Governor will be wide-reaching: from safeguarding the use of public funds and ensuring strong governance, to setting and monitoring targets that drive student retention, achievement, and success. In short, you will help ensure every learner has the opportunity to reach their potential.

Who we are looking for

Having considered the current skills composition on our Board, we believe there are several areas of expertise which would add considerable value to our Board. These are:

• Qualified finance professionals
• Professionals working in senior compliance, risk and audit-focused roles
• Those working in leadership roles within local employers and the wider business community, ideally leading business operations of an organisation which complements the curriculum strategy of the college.
• Those with oversight and responsibility for large-scale capital development projects and facilities management in similarly large and complex organisations
• A professional with expertise in the area of safeguarding

Prior experience as a member of a non-executive board is not essential, but it will, of course, be welcomed, especially where this experience relates to time served on an audit or finance committee within a complex business or not-for-profit environment.

The role requires commitment and active participation. Our Governors meet five times per year in person on Thursdays from 5 pm, with additional committee and strategy sessions across the year. Preparation, attendance, and engagement are essential, as is a willingness to attend College events and undertake training. On average, the role involves around 12 hours per month.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 12th November. 

Inclusive Boards is pleased to be supporting Abbeyfield Living Society in their search for two Trustees and one Trainee Trustee.

Abbeyfield Living Society (ALS) is a charity providing housing, care and support to older people across England. ALS currently own 1,358 housing and care rooms/apartments across 63 properties and 28 counties in England, including sheltered housing schemes, care homes, nursing homes, and dementia care homes. ALS is seeking to recruit two Trustees and one Trainee Trustee to assist the Board of Trustees to ensure the future viability and sustainability of Abbeyfield by:

• Ensuring that ALS has a clear business plan that supports its vision, mission and strategic direction, and is focused on achieving these. 

• Being focused on the needs of residents and their wellbeing through the provision of high quality and compliant services. 

• Working in partnership with other trustees, the CEO and other senior staff, contributing to and sharing responsibility for the Board's decisions. 

• Complying at all times with the National Housing Federation's Code of Conduct for its board members and staff.

Given that community is at the heart of Abbeyfield, we are working towards a board that is representative of the people and communities we serve. A diverse board will help to broaden our reach, and ensure Abbeyfield is demonstrating its commitment to helping diverse communities. Furthermore, ALS has signed up to the National Housing Federation (NHF) Code of Governance 2020 which includes the requirement that:

 'The membership of board and committees comprises people with diverse backgrounds and attributes, having regard to the diversity of the communities the organisation serves and in line with the organisation's stated commitments to equality, diversity and inclusion' (para 3.4(3)). 

To these ends, we actively seek applications from a diverse range of candidates. ALS is deeply committed to inclusive working practices, so during the application process we commit to: 

• Offering a guaranteed first stage interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. 

• Covering travel costs to and from in-person interviews. 

• Making reasonable adjustments at every stage of the process - for example, arranging a BSL interpreter or accessible interview format as needed. 

• Providing recruitment documents in alternative formats, such as accessible Word versions, on request.

For this role, you will need demonstrable experience of operating in a senior leadership role/board level in charitable, public sector or commercial organisation. The new trustees will complement the skills of the existing Board and will each bring specialist knowledge and experience in at least one of these specific areas:

• Care &/or housing services management and CQC &/or housing regulation

• Property growth & development

• Artificial intelligence

Regardless of professional background, candidates must be able to contribute at a strategic level to steer and drive the strategy, ensure good governance, help to promote the reputation of ALS and be advocates for the Abbeyfield movement.

For more information about this opportunity, please download the Candidate Information Pack using the links on this page.

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following by 11.59pm on 02/11/2025: 

• A detailed CV, setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements 

• A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role for which you’re applying and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed.

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available at colleges England.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you

Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.

This is an opportunity to:

• Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation

What you’ll do

As part of a governing board, you’ll:

• Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
• Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
• Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
• Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:

• Finance, Audit & Risk
• HR, People & Culture
• Strategy, Transformation & Operations
• Technology, AI & Digital
• Legal, Governance & Compliance
• Marketing, PR & Communications
• Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.

Time commitment

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:

• Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or remote)
• Reading papers and preparing questions
• Participating in training and occasional college visits

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.

Where you’ll be needed
Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you?

· Enhance your board-level and governance experience

· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role

· Expand your professional network

·Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact

· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.