Non-Executive Director

About us:
The North Devon Biosphere Foundation (NDBF) is an environmentally led entrepreneurial Charitable Company (limited by guarantee), being the implementation arm of the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere. NDBF has a wholly owned subsidiary, North Devon Biosphere Enterprise Ltd (NDBE), to run its commercial opportunities. The North Devon Biosphere is part of the global UNESCO ‘Man and the Biosphere Programme’ (MAB) network  that connects communities around the world who recognise the connections between people and nature. Together, the network covers over 5% of the Earth’s surface and is home to over 250m people.

North Devon Biosphere was the first UNESCO Biosphere designated in the UK and covers over 5000 sq km of land and sea. The designation serves as a regional scale exemplar of sustainable development by linking people and nature. It addresses issues such the climate and ecological crises and builds in social and economic outcomes to benefit the area. It is governed by a ‘Partnership’ of some 34 organisations that include: North Devon & Torridge District Councils, Devon County Council, Exeter University, Plymouth University, Petroc, Devon Wildlife Trust, the NFU, the Environment Agency, Marine Management Organisation, the MOD, Natural England, the Forestry Commission and Beaford Arts.

The NDBF and North Devon UNESCO Biosphere Partnership have been at the forefront of natural capital research and has built a trusted relationship with local landowners, delivering over £8m in nature-based solutions; recognised by the UNESCO MAB ICC as an exemplary biosphere for its ‘holistic approach & systems thinking’. NDBF currently has a team of 18 contractors and employees, and NDBE a further 3.

What we are looking for:
North Devon Biosphere Foundation wish to recruit and appoint new Non-Executive Directors (who will also be Trustees) to broaden and diversify our Board, filling skills gaps and bring new perspectives and ideas with complementary skills. This is a unique opportunity and exciting time for enthusiastic and committed individuals to join our Board and play a leading role in the continuing development of the Foundation and its Enterprise Company. Applications are encouraged from all ages and backgrounds; whether you’re an experienced Director or want to take your first step at Board level, we want to hear from you. We are searching for Non-Executive Directors with a wide variety of skills and a diversity of background and experiences. Particular interests in business development and the environment would be welcomed along with skills in one or more of the following areas:

• Funding and implementation of natural capital and green economy projects, both marine and terrestrial
• Legal expertise (both corporate and charity law are helpful)
• HR Management

 
We are also looking for individuals with a significant network of senior individuals across the South West, and/or in the natural capital or green economy space. As Non-Executive Directors we are passionate about the work that we do, and enjoy being part of a small, busy and effective Organisation and Board.

For more information about the job and how to apply, please visit our website.