Trustee

About the Trust

The Lift and Escalator Educational Trust will be a small charitable incorporated organisation being established to continue the work of the existing unincorporated charity. It will operate independently while working closely with the Lift and Escalator Industry Association (LEIA).

The Trust exists to advance education and training in electrical and mechanical engineering, particularly within the lift and escalator industry, for the benefit of people working in the sector and the wider public. Its objects also enable it to support scholarships, lectureships, prizes, awards and other educational activity.

Its future work is expected to include:

·    awarding grants and commissioning educational projects;

·    supporting qualifications, training and continuing professional development for people from entry level through to experienced practitioners;

·    producing public awareness and safety information; and

·    increasing public understanding of lifts, escalators and the wider engineering industry.

The role

The two new trustees will join three existing trustees connected with LEIA and the lift and escalator industry. Together, the trustees will be responsible for the governance, strategic direction and effective use of the Trust's resources.

Trustees will:

·    help determine the Trust's strategy and educational priorities;

·    oversee grants, commissioned work and other charitable expenditure;

·    ensure that the Trust pursues its charitable objects and complies with its governing document and relevant charity law;

·    safeguard the Trust's assets, reputation and independence;

·    review the impact and effectiveness of its work;

·    contribute expertise, ideas and constructive challenge; and

·    act collectively in the best interests of the Trust.

Person specification

We are looking for people with an interest in engineering and experience or knowledge in one or more of the following areas (outside of the Lift and Escalator industry):

·    education, training or qualifications;

·    public engagement;

·    public understanding of science, engineering or technology; or

·    grant-making or commissioning educational work.

Trustees should also demonstrate:

·    commitment to the Trust's charitable purpose;

·    integrity, discretion and respect for confidentiality;

·    strategic thinking, sound independent judgement and a willingness to challenge constructively;

·    enthusiasm and an ability to work collaboratively;

·    willingness to devote the necessary time to reading papers and attending meetings;

·    understanding of, or willingness to learn about, charity trusteeship; and

·    an appreciation of the role of trade associations and membership organisations.

Previous trustee experience is welcome but is not essential. We welcome applications from first-time trustees and from people with a range of professional, voluntary and lived experience.

Current Charity number: 326993 – to be incorporated as an CIO as a new charity.