Voluntary Senior Management Volunteer Roles in Home Based

Raising Futures Kenya supports young people in Kenya to become self-reliant and live free from poverty, through technical vocational training and business skills courses, and specialised support such as counselling.

We are looking for three new Trustees to join our UK Board. We are a small, award-winning charity who are actively shifting power to our Kenyan partner NGO. With three Trustees coming to the end of their term this year we are looking for skilled, enthusiast, committed individuals who are passionate about what we do, to become part of our Trustee team.

We are specifically looking for the following roles on our Board;

• Chair of Trustees
• Secretary to Board
• Someone who has experience in either corporate networking, partnership development, mental health and wellbeing, HR or in technical vocational training and entrepreneurship/business skills training.

Passion for our work is our number one recruitment factor though so please do get in touch if you have other skills to offer.

We are in Year 2 of our 5 year Strategic Plan, where the focus is on shifting the decision making power to our partner NGO in Kenya. Ultimately our long-term goal is to not be needed, but we realise the funding landscape is a long way off that at the moment.

As one of our Trustees you'll be part of an award-winning small charity who is leading the way in ethical development, primarily by actively shifting power and decision making to our incredible partner NGO in Kenya. We're a small charity but we definitely have a big impact and want to share our learning and knowledge with other NGOs who want to follow the same path of shifting power. We don't just talk about what we want to do, we get it done.

Please see the three detailed role descriptions on our website for more information about our charity and what the role entails. We look forward to hearing from you. 

We're setting up a new youth charity called REMIX and looking for volunteers to join us in the role of Trustee who can help us get REMIX set up, registered and on our way to providing amazing programmes for young people in London and beyond.

REMIX aims to be a dynamic youth-focused charity passionate and committed to empowering young people from deprived areas and disadvantaged backgrounds across London and beyond by creating opportunities and experiences that address the holistic needs of young people, that EMPOWER young people and INSPIRE change that puts them on a path to TRANSFORM their lives for the better. Our evidence-based programmes will focus on developing essential life skills, fostering healthy lifestyles, and unlocking personal growth by experienced and dedicated positive role models in a safe and non judgemental environment, helping young people discover themselves and the world around them.

We're looking for volunteer Trustees:

Our Trustees will play a crucial role in the governance and success of REMIX and we are looking for dedicated volunteers who can help REMIX become an amazing youth charity in London and beyond.

At REMIX you will;

1. Uphold the Charity’s Mission, ensuring that REMIX is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit and adhering to its mission and values.
2. Comply with the charity’s governing document and charity law requirements.
3. Act in the charity’s best interests, setting and reviewing the strategic direction and policies.
4. Manage the charity’s resources responsibly, ensuring they are used effectively and safeguarded for the future.
5. Act with reasonable care, skill, and diligence, using personal knowledge and experience to guide the charity.
6. Ensure that the charity is accountable to its beneficiaries, the public, the Charity Commission, and other stakeholders.
7. Identify and manage risks that could impact the charity’s operations, finances, or reputation.
8. Oversee the charity’s financial affairs, ensuring proper accounting records are kept and financial resources are spent in line with the charity’s objectives.
9. Contribute to the charity’s fundraising strategy and efforts to secure resources for sustainability and growth.
10. Act as an ambassador for the charity, advocating for its cause and building relationships with potential supporters and partners.
11. Regularly review the charity’s goals, activities, and outcomes to ensure they align with the mission and make the intended impact.
12. Advise and give support to the Founder and CEO and the wider team where needed.
13. Other duties relevant to a Trustee of a new start-up charity.

Together, let’s REMIX the narrative of our world!

REMIX

EMPOWER | INSPIRE | TRANSFORM

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is looking for three members of the Commercial and Partnerships Advisory Committee.

The Commercial and Partnerships Advisory Committee is to provide guidance and make recommendations to the Council or Executive Board on matters pertaining to commercial and partnership opportunities and activity, approach to safeguards and controls for partnership working, and advises them on commercial strategies and performance. The RSPB strategy recognises the importance of partnership in order to maximise the impact it can have. Similarly, commercial activities are key opportunities for the RSPB as we seek to grow and diversify our income.

In addition to making an important contribution to the work of the RSPB, through shaping its strategy and direction and influencing key decisions affecting its delivery of conservation outcomes, participating in an advisory committee can provide excellent networking opportunities, an opportunity to acquire practical experience of committee functions, decision-making process and further development of leadership skills, knowledge, and experience.

About you

We are looking for individuals with relevant experience to join our committees to provide independent, objective, challenging advice to support the Executive Board and Trustees in developing, shaping and implementing of RSPB strategies.

Essential skills, knowledge, and experience across one or more of the following areas:

1. Experience in building successful partnerships to further impact and setting common goals and outcomes.

2. Experience in developing and implementing commercial strategies that identify new income opportunities that help diversity the existing portfolio.

3. Experience in dealing with innovative financial products and how to take them to market.

4. Some prior involvement in the not-for-profit sector would be an advantage but not a requirement.

5. Leadership in setting up monitoring systems and KPIs for determining the effectiveness and success of these partnerships and commercial income stream.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the RSPB website, where you can find full details of the role and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role closes 10th May.

Charity Appeals Advisory Committee Members

Specialist areas: Disability

International Development

Could you lend your skills to help the BBC’s work with charities?

We are recruiting 2 new members to the BBC’s Charity Appeals Advisory Committee (AAC) which is made up of independent experts from the charitable sector.  The AAC is a voluntary body which advises and supports the BBC’s Executive Board in matters relating to good governance and effectiveness of BBC charity appeals.

Role Responsibility

AAC members advise on policy, scrutiny, the allocation of broadcasting time and the strategic development of the BBC’s relationship to appeals. These include BBC Children in Need, Comic Relief, the Radio 4 Appeal, BBC One Lifeline, appeals in the Nations and English Regions, appeals on behalf of the Disasters Emergency Committee and other projects where funds are raised for charities.

 The Ideal Candidates

We’re keen to hear from people who are, or who have been in a senior leadership role in a charity and who can bring expertise in charity governance and management. In particular we’re looking for people with specialist knowledge in one of the following sectors:

· Disability

· International Development

We’ll also need you to be able to demonstrate expertise in at least 2 of the following: social policy, fundraising, finance, grant making, legal issues, monitoring and evaluation.

The appointment will be for three years, renewable for a further three years by agreement. The position is unpaid but reasonable expenses will be met.

For more information please see the full advert here (LINK TO FULL AD) .

Closing date: 12 May 2024

Interviews are expected to be held w/c May 20th 2024.

We are looking for dedicated, energetic and engaged people for the RE Museum’s first independent Board of Trustees.

We have vacancies for up to six Trustees who will join us at a truly groundbreaking time, as we transition into a Charity Incorporated Organisation.

We are building a Board of Trustees with a diversity of backgrounds, skills and experience; ensuring that we are best place to realise our ambitions, improve our public offer, our care for the heritage of the Corps of Royal Engineers and ultimately the positive impact we have on the lives of our growing audiences. 

Further information is available to download in the Trustee Recruitment Pack. We hope that you are keen to apply for the role and thank you for your interest.

About Roots Academy

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 1,800 students across the UK.

Role Summary

Roots Academy is in the process of registering as a charity. As part of this process, the team are working towards creating policies, procedures and frameworks to ensure Roots is meeting charity governance requirements, and to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

The teams currently include:

• Executive team – will become the Trustee Board, once registered
• Leadership team – Team Leads include Finance, HR, Marketing, Fundraising, Academic, Delivery

As our Governance Lead, you will work closely with the Executive Team / Trustee Board, to establish a governance framework for the charity. You will also work closely with the relevant team leads to ensure each team has policies and procedures in place.

Key tasks

• Working closely with the Exec team, support the Trustee on-boarding process, to ensure all required documentation is obtained, and stored securely
• Support with trustee meetings, ensuring accurate record keeping of meeting agendas and minutes
• Manage registers; register of members of the board, register of interests, register of gifts, policy register, risk register, submitting to relevant regulators and responding to appropriate requests.
• Oversee the development of governance polices, such as Complaints Policy, Conflict of Interest Policy, Risk Management Policy, and Whistleblowing Policy.
• Work with the leadership team to ensure policies and procedures are in place, in line with best practice, and signed off by the Trustee board. This includes but is not limited to:
  • Finance policies: Anti-Bribery and Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering, Cash Handling, Due Diligence, Expenses, Reserves
  • Marketing & communications policies: Data Protection, External Communications & PR Policy, Social Media Policy, IT & Internal Communication Policy
  • Fundraising policies: Acceptance & Refusal of Donations Policy, Ethical Fundraising Policy
• Work with the People Team Lead to roll out HR and safeguarding policies and procedures
• Work with the relevant Team Lead to ensure Roots has all relevant insurances is in place – e.g. public liability insurance for fundraising events, travel insurance for trips abroad, employer liability insurance if employees are recruited in the future.
• Advise the board as necessary, keeping up to date with relevant laws and regulations, including but not limited to Charity Commission Regulations and the Fundraising Code of Conduct.

What we’re looking for

• Experience in charity governance  
• Experience with risk management
• Experience with conducting compliance audits desired but not essential
• Strong understanding of Charity Commission Regulations and the Fundraising Code of Conduct

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 40+ dedicated volunteers from across the country.
• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform.
• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.
• Receive in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen.

This would be an ideal position for someone with experience in charity compliance or auditing, looking to volunteer their time and develop their leadership skills, in a faith-based start-up environment. 

We will be reviewing applicants on a rolling basis, if you are interested please apply today - we would love to hear from you!

Role: Charity Administrator / Manager / Trustee
Location: Remote
Job Type: Part-time

About Us:
The Spiritual Arts Foundation is a unique UK arts organisation dedicated to promoting the spiritual exploration of artistic expression. We believe in the transformative power of spirituality and the arts to inspire individuals and communities. Our organisation has over 90 professional creative members, including artists, authors, composers, singer-songwriters, filmmakers, and producers, 1200+ members within our ‘Spiritual Creatives’ Meetup group and a rapidly expanding volunteer management team of more than 40 writers, marketers, art historians, social media and digital marketing experts.

Position Overview:
The Spiritual Arts Foundation is seeking a highly experienced and knowledgeable Charity Administrator / Manager to join our team. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of charity law and regulations in the UK, along with extensive practical experience in setting up charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), and Companies Limited by Guarantee (CLGs). In addition to possessing exceptional organizational and project management skills, the candidate should also have a genuine interest in spiritual subjects and a passion for making a difference in the world.

Responsibilities:

You will be required to:

• Provide expert guidance and support in the setup and registration of charities, CICs, and CLGs, ensuring compliance with relevant UK legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Consult with our legal team on the preparation of legal documentation, including governing documents, constitutions, and articles of association.
• Assist in the establishment of appropriate governance structures, and work with our HR team regarding the recruitment and training of trustees and board members.
• Assist our management and accounting teams to choose optimal bank accounts and obtain the necessary financial services for new charitable entities.
• Consult with our fundraising team to help implement our strategies for fundraising, donor engagement, and income generation.
• Offer strategic advice on staffing requirements, recruitment processes, and employment contracts.
• Help us to identify potential risks and opportunities associated with charity setup and operation.
• Keep abreast of changes in charity law, regulations, and best practices, and ensure that organizational policies and procedures remain up to date.
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams, external stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to achieve organizational objectives.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven experience in setting up charities, CICs, or CLGs in the UK, including a comprehensive understanding of the legal and regulatory framework.
• Knowledge of charity law, tax regulations, governance principles, and financial management practices.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment, fostering a culture of trust and respect.
• Genuine interest in spiritual subjects and a commitment to promoting values of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and requirements, with a proactive and solutions-oriented approach to problem-solving.

Why work with us?

• Highly cooperative & flexible team structure, filled with inspiring creatives and spiritual scholars.
• Self-promotion opportunities through the Spiritual Arts Foundations networking channels for artists and creatives.
• Gain personal fulfilment by contributing to spiritual growth and cultural enrichment as you support our mission.
• Enhance skills valuable in personal and professional life through hands-on involvement in spiritual arts initiatives.
• Build a network of like-minded individuals, fostering friendships, collaborations, and potential career opportunities in the arts and spirituality.
• Enjoy complimentary access to spiritual events, workshops, and experiences, deepening your knowledge and appreciation of the arts.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the successful growth of The Spiritual Arts Foundation.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Unlock YOUR Potential is on the lookout for a visionary leader to join our team as our Chief Operating Officer (COO) in a volunteer capacity. This remote role is pivotal in steering our operations, fostering an exceptional organisational culture, and amplifying our impact.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a vibrant, impact-driven startup charity dedicated to uplifting individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. We are committed to delivering impactful programmes that encompass employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and comprehensive support. Our goal is to carve out new avenues for those in pursuit of positive transformation.

Role Overview:

As the COO - VOLUNTEER ROLE, you will be instrumental in overseeing our operations and ensuring the smooth execution of our mission. Your leadership will be key in nurturing our team and advancing our strategic objectives. This role is remote, with collaboration conducted via telephone or online platforms like Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

• Guide the charity’s operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in all aspects.
• Collaborate with the CEO and board to set ambitious yet achievable goals.
• Streamline processes to enhance productivity and resource allocation.
• Lead our passionate team, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Implement robust systems to track progress and drive organisational success.
• Work closely with the finance department to safeguard the charity’s financial health.
• Ensure adherence to legal standards and proactive risk mitigation.
• Foster strong relationships with partners, donors, and the community.
• Be an ambassador for Unlock YOUR Potential, advocating for our mission and values.
• Carry out of duties that support the running of Unlock YOUR Potnetial and your role as COO.

Qualifications and Experience:

We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, ages, and skill sets to apply. Ideal candidates will possess:

• Proven track record in a management role, preferably within the non-profit sector.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee complex operations and drive strategic initiatives.
• Understanding of financial management principles and budgeting.
• Exceptional ability to communicate and engage with various stakeholders.
• Dedication to the ethos and aspirations of Unlock YOUR Potential.

Time Commitment:

The role requires a commitment of approximately 8-10 hours per week, which can be accommodated during evenings and weekends, offering fantastic flexibility to fit around your life.

Join Us:

If you’re eager to make a significant contribution, inspire change, and lead with conviction, we welcome your application. Together, let’s unlock potential and enact meaningful change.

Unlock YOUR Potential is proud to be an equal opportunity organisation.

TREASURER - VOLUNTEER ROLE

We are looking for a volunteer with experience in UK accounting to join us at Unlock YOUR Potential in the volunteer role of TREASURER (Remote), where you will lead on the financial management and controls of Unlock YOUR Potential. This includes attending regular meetings via telephone or via Zoom and be able to commit to 6 hours per month as part of the TREASURER duties.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a dynamic and impact-focused startup charity committed to empowering individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission is to provide meaningful programmes that span employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and holistic support. We believe in building new pathways for those seeking positive change.

Role Overview:

As the Volunteer, Treasurer, you will play a crucial role in managing the financial affairs of our charity. Your expertise will ensure compliance with legal accounting practices, effective financial management, and strategic decision-making. This is a remote position with meetings taking place via telephone or via Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Monitor and safeguard charity funds, including being a key signatory of the charity bank accounts.
2. ​Prepare accurate financial reports and records. Ensure compliance with financial regulations.
3. Prepare budgets and financial statements, submit forecasting and financial reports and implement legislative and financial policies.
4. Lead the charity in all financial matters and aspects.
5. Work closely with the CEO and Finance Manager and other Trustees to ensure the sound financial management of Unlock YOUR Potential.
6. Carry out essential Trustee duties, including those in your role as Treasurer.

Treasurer ​Qualifications:

• Previous UK finance/accounting experience.
• Proficiency with financial software systems.
• Strong communication and forecasting skills.
• Knowledge of financial legislation.​

Trustee Attributes:

• Passion for Social Impact: You believe in creating opportunities for those facing socio-economic challenges.
• Collaborative Approach: You appreciate teamwork and value diverse perspectives.
• Strategic Thinker: You can envision long-term goals and contribute to effective planning.
• Excellent Communication: You can articulate our mission compellingly to various audiences.

Time Commitment:

Approximately 6 hours per month. This includes quarterly board meetings and additional tasks as needed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 1-year term, with the option of renewal after the term comes up.

Join Us:

If you are passionate about making a difference, ready to contribute your skills, and eager to serve our community, we invite you to apply. Together, we can unlock potential and create positive change.

Unlock YOUR Potential is an equal opportunity organisation.

TRUSTEE - VOLUNTEER ROLE

We are looking for volunteers to join us at Unlock YOUR Potential in the volunteer role of TRUSTEE (Remote), where you will attend regular quarterly Trustee meetings via Zoom and be able to commit to 3 hours per month as part of the TRUSTEE duties.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a dynamic and impact-focused startup charity committed to empowering individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission is to provide meaningful programmes that span employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and holistic support. We believe in building new pathways for those seeking positive change.

Role Overview:

As a Volunteer, Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction and governance of our new startup social mobility charity. Your expertise and commitment will contribute to our mission of unlocking potential and transforming lives. This is a remote position with meetings taking place via Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Support Unlock YOUR Potential by carrying out essential Trustee duties.
2. Collaborate with fellow trustees to develop and review long-term strategies, policies and plans.
3. Uphold effective governance practices.
4. Actively engage in board meetings and decision-making.
5. Represent Unlock YOUR Potential externally. Cultivate relationships with stakeholders and partners.
6. Carry out regular Trustee duties within your 3 hours per month.
7. Support, advise and assist the CEO and Team, ensuring they have all the needed resources to carry out their roles.
8. Assist and in some cases lead on income generation, such as grant/bid writing.

Qualifications and Attributes:

We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds. While specific qualifications are not mandatory, we value the following attributes:

• Passion for Social Impact: You believe in creating opportunities for those facing socio-economic challenges.
• Collaborative Approach: You appreciate teamwork and value diverse perspectives.
• Strategic Thinker: You can envision long-term goals and contribute to effective planning.
• Excellent Communication: You can articulate our mission compellingly to various audiences.

Time Commitment:

Approximately 3 hours per month. This includes quarterly board meetings and additional tasks as needed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 1-year term, with the option of renewal after the term comes up.

Join Us:

If you are passionate about making a difference, ready to contribute your skills, and eager to serve our community, we invite you to apply. Together, we can unlock potential and create positive change.

Unlock YOUR Potential is an equal opportunity organisation.

Are you passionate about taking action on climate change, biodiversity loss and social equity?

Do you believe that it's possible to meet today's needs without compromising those of future generations?

If you combine these beliefs with leadership skills and governance experience, we want to hear from you. Our Board of Trustees needs you to help us put Sustainability First in the UK.

Who we are

We’re a small, highly regarded think-tank and charity that promotes practical, sustainable solutions to improve environmental, economic and social wellbeing.

What we do

Sustainability First works towards real environmental and social change. Primarily

focussed on the energy and water sectors, we:

• undertake research

• initiate policy discussions

• make complex issues accessible to the public

• promote under-represented voices

• develop solutions to influence Players in the sector

The opportunity

You will be joining Sustainability First at a critical time, when we are stepping up our ambition to drive change in the energy and water sectors in a way that benefits people and responds to the urgent need to transition to a more sustainable future. You will work collaboratively with our Executive Director in meeting our ambitions to scale our work, drive change across the sector and embed the representation of people into decision-making.

This will include six primary responsibilities:

1 Ensure that Sustainability First has a clear strategic direction aimed at fulfilling its charity objectives and that the Strategy is regularly reviewed.

2 Oversee the governance of the Charity with:

     a. an effective, diverse and relevant Board of Trustees.

     b. appropriate policies, processes & financial management such that the Charity operates within the law, in pursuit of its Strategy and demonstrating good practice.

     c. regular and effective liaison, reporting and oversight of the Executive Director, Company Secretary and, as necessary, staff and panel of experts in order to ensure effective and proportionate planning, use of resources, monitoring and reporting by the Board of Trustees.

3 Set the agenda for and chair Board meetings to ensure engagement of, and discussion amongst Trustees based on the best possible information, input from the Executive Director and team, leading to clear and accountable decision-making.

4 Appoint, support and manage the Executive Director on behalf of the Board.

5 Ensure that the charity has an income generation strategy which is monitored and actively supported by trustees and Chair, in order to achieve the Board’s stated objective to build resilience and capacity for Sustainability First to successfully fulfil its charitable objects.

6 Represent the charity externally as required.

Skills

After many years of service to our charity, our current Chair is retiring. At a time of opportunity and challenge for our organisation, we’re looking for someone with a proven track record of leadership at board level, ideally in the UK charity sector. Your experience of running and growing a small but impactful organisation in a professional or voluntary capacity will be crucial to the work of our Board, dedicated staff and expert associates.

Not one to shy away from a challenge, you will draw on your experience of collegiate collaboration, positive decision-making and effective problem-solving to help ensure funding, organisational excellence, and ultimately environmental and social change.

PERSON SPECIFICATION FOR CHAIR

The ideal candidate will have proven knowledge/ skills/ experience in the following areas:

• Governance and board experience (essential) and in a chairing or leadership role (desirable)
• *Demonstrable leadership skills consistent with Sustainability First’s values and charitable purpose (essential)
• *Ability to both manage and support the Board and Executive Director to help achieve the best outcomes (essential)
• Support the vision and mission of the charity (essential) with experience, networks and profile in one or more of our areas of operation (desirable)
• *Sufficient time and energy to fulfil the role (essential)
• A growth mindset* (essential) and income generation experience (desirable)
• *Experience of small organisations and their particular challenges in a professional or voluntary capacity (essential)
• Experience of working within the UK Charity Sector (desirable)

In addition to preparing for and chairing the Board, the Chair will be an ex officio member of all Board Panels, will line manage the Executive Director and will represent the charity externally as requested.

The commitment is likely to average around two days per month. The appointment is for an initial three-year term with the option to renew.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is 13th May. You can read our recruitment pack in full on our website. Please send a cover letter explaining your reasons for applying, the skills and experience you would bring to this role, and a copy of your CV plus a completed EDI Monitoring Form to our Company Secretary and Head of Finance, Claire Williams.

Our Trustees are the people who lead the charity and decide how it is run. Being a Trustee at Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland means making decisions that will impact on people’s lives.

As a Trustee, you will make a difference to your local community. You’ll have a key role assisting in the overall management and development of Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland ensuring that all organisational and legal requirements are adhered to.

In particular, we are looking for Trustees with professional backgrounds and experience in the following areas:

• Health
• Social Care
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• IT & Technology

ESU invites a visionary leader to join our education committee to help shape the future of oracy education globally whilst supporting the creation and development of new ventures and a new 5-year strategy.

Applications close on: Monday 29th April 2024

Location: Dartmouth House, 37 Charles St, London W1J 5ED

About The English-Speaking Union (ESU)

The English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth is a membership organisation with a charitable purpose. It was founded by the journalist Sir Evelyn Wrench in 1918 and is governed by a Royal Charter, granted by Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1957. The Princess Royal is the President.

The ESU is best known for its extensive work in supporting children and young people to develop speaking and listening (oracy) skills through primary education programmes, public speaking competitions and debate.

The ESU is an international organisation with a network of 54 national ESUs, each operating independently and according to its own jurisdiction. The ESU provides secretariat to the International Council.

The international headquarters of the ESU are at Dartmouth House, one of the most notable properties in Mayfair.

It is Grade II Listed and is scheduled as a building of national importance. The venue is operated under licence by Graysons, who run weddings, private events, corporate activities and service our members.

The ESU also operates a private members’ club at Dartmouth House, where members establish new friendships and networks through its varied events programme.

We plan to refurbish our Grade II listed building in the heart of Mayfair whilst retaining our heritage and maximising our opportunities.

We plan to develop our volunteering strategy and grow our network of volunteers nationally and from within our existing membership and new audiences.

Alongside planning to establish our fundraising capability to grow, diversify and enhance our education and membership offers and establishing our new fundraising strategy.

ESU is not just an organisation; it’s a lifelong community. Our vibrant domestic and international membership network is the cornerstone of our charitable work, fostering connections that last a lifetime.

About the role

We have just appointed several new Trustees to our board and are looking to appoint a new Co-opted Advisor who can offer us support, guidance, challenge, and strategic advice through our education committee.

You will join us as we embark on new ventures to develop our site and offer, diversify our income streams, grow our volunteering and ultimately create our next 5-year strategy.

The co-opted advisor will have a one-year term.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for an advisor with experience preferably at senior leadership level in secondary education, however, we are open to people with experience in primary and further education.

Please click 'Apply via website’ 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 on Monday 29th April 2024

Good Vibrations is an award-winning, national arts organisation that changes lives through music. We work with some of the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach people in the UK, including in prisons, secure hospitals, and in the community. We are best known for using the Indonesian gamelan, a magnificent set of bronze gongs, xylophones and drums. We use communal music-making to support vulnerable people in challenging circumstances to develop transferable life and work skills and to forge fulfilling, constructive lives.

Our work currently involves a range of projects across the UK, including long-standing weekly music sessions at Bethlem and Lambeth hospitals, projects in around 12 prisons a year in England, and our Resonate programmes in Glasgow, Sheffield and Nottingham, which focus on those with disabilities and mental health issues in the community.

The Board of Trustees upholds the best interests of Good Vibrations, ensuring that we achieve our charitable aims whilst abiding by charity law and other relevant regulations.

Good Vibrations wishes to appoint a new Chair to our Board of Trustees who is experienced in organisational leadership, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  The Chair supports and empowers the Board and CEO to lead the charity so that we achieve our vision, mission and aims, whilst remaining sustainable and ethical.

The Board of Trustees

Good Vibrations is a registered charity in both England & Wales (1126493) and Scotland (SC048860). The charity is governed by the Board of Trustees, which currently numbers five following the standing down of some long-term members.

The Board is vital in Good Vibrations’ governance and is responsible for setting directions in strategy and maintaining oversight over all activity. Trustees also play an ambassadorial role in raising awareness of our work.

The current board includes expertise in arts and culture, legal and charitable affairs, finance and academia, helping to ensure that we extend our knowledge of the issues and challenges we face.

Good Vibrations is regularly in receipt of funding from Arts Council England and Creative Scotland, as well as from the National Lottery and several other Trusts and Foundations. The Board is currently involved in creating the organisation’s next 5-year Business Plan. You can see our most recent Annual Report and Accounts here.

What are we looking for?

The position has become available following the standing down of the current Chair Nick Jolliffe, who has been with the organisation since 2018. The organisation has recently appointed a new CEO, and this is an exciting time of development for the organisation.

As our new Chair, you will help shape the next exciting phase of our future development as we commence our new strategic plan, and embed our newest Trustees within our established Board. Your leadership and commitment will ensure we continue to provide and extend our range of much-needed support and services to our beneficiaries.

The role of the Chair is a voluntary, non-executive appointment. The role requires a commitment of approximately two hours a week, with the capacity to flex upwards should the need arise.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Strong leadership skills that engage, inspire and motivate the Board, staff, freelance team and other external stakeholders.
• Genuine interest and commitment to social justice issues and improving outcomes and opportunities for marginalised people in our society.
• A proven track record in developing strategic initiatives and steering an organisation toward success
• Previous experience on the Board of a UK charity, or operating at a senior strategic leadership level in previous roles
• Knowledge about UK charity governance and commitment to maintaining high standards of governance and risk management in all areas including finance.
• Excellent communication skills and networking capabilities, and able to act as an ambassador for the charity and cause.
• Ability to commit time, interest and effort to conduct the role well.

How our Board works

Trustees meet quarterly at Board Meetings, either in person in London or online from 5.00pm – 7.30pm.  There is also an annual Strategy day in London.

In addition, a Finance sub-committee meets quarterly, looking in-depth at finance and other matters, before putting recommendations forward to the Board.

Trustees do not receive remuneration or other benefits, but all expenses can be claimed including those required to cover access needs such as sign language, interpretation, captioning or travel expenses. The full legal framework for Trustees is laid out in the Articles of Association, which were recently revised in 2022.

Trustees serve for an initial term of three years and will have the opportunity to be re-appointed for a second and final term (maximum of nine years).

What Responsibilities will you have?

Trustees ensure the good governance and smooth running of the charity, supporting the Chief Executive Director, the wider staff team, and our team of freelance facilitators.

ow there are lots of ways that someone can gain experience and insight, not just through professional experience. Having trustees with lived experience of the settings in which we work is essential to our work.

All Board members can have access to training and charity networks to benefit not only the charity, but individual’s personal development.

All Good Vibrations’ Trustees have responsibility for the:

• governance of the organisation in line with legal and financial requirements of the Charity Commission, OSCR, other regulatory bodies, and funders;
• appointment, including the approval of job descriptions and pay levels of members of staff; agreeing terms & conditions and employment procedures;
• recruitment of new Trustees;
• approval of Good Vibrations’ strategy, its business, and artistic plans, and use of resources;
• approval of budgets, annual accounts and financial strategies;
• approval of all policies ensuring that they are updated in line with law and best practice.

The Chair, as the leader of the Board of Trustees, has some additional responsibilities including:

• working with and line managing the CEO to develop the direction and strategy of the charity;
• conducting annual performance reviews for each trustee and the CEO;
• ensuring high standards of governance, risk management and strategic direction
• ensuring that all Trustees have the information available to carry out this task and monitor progress;
• leading and developing the Board of Trustees and CEO including induction, training and succession planning;
• support of the CEO in their role, including developing external relations with key agencies;
• working with other members of the Board to organise and populate sub-committees and short-term working groups;
• planning the cycle of Board Meetings and working with the CEO to set agendas and plan meetings;
• chairing and facilitating Board meetings effectively, encouraging discussion, summarising key points and ensuring decisions are made fairly;
• acting as a principal ambassador for the organisation at Board level and developing external relationships for the benefit of Good Vibrations

Before you apply

Good Vibrations is committed to becoming an organisation that reflects society and promotes diversity of thought and experience and inclusion of those who are historically underrepresented in leadership roles. We would particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the contexts in which we work, including from people with a previous conviction.

For an informal conversation about the role prior to application, please contact us through details on our website.

Please note this post will require a Disclosure & Barring Service check (DBS) and references.

How to Apply

We welcome all applications but particularly those from individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system, disability, including physical disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, mental ill health, and autistic and neurodivergent people. We also encourage applications from those protected under the 2010 Equalities Act due to age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

We are interested to hear from those who may not consider a position like this due to social or financial disadvantage. Those with caring responsibilities and on low incomes are encouraged to apply, and we will work to make provision where possible.

To apply for this role, please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your interest through Charity Job. We will also accept applications in any preferred format (including audio or video).

The closing date for this position is 14th May 2024 with interviews to be held on the week of 20th May.  Any access requirements will be met.