Council Member

The National Trust Council is looking for great people to ensure we deliver on our objectives as a charity and champion our ambitious ten-year strategy to:

·       Restore nature – not just on our land, but everywhere.

·       End unequal access to nature, beauty and history

·       Inspire millions more people to care and take action

This is a strategic role and, as a Council member, you will play an important role in the governance of the Trust, as Europe’s largest conservation charity. The Council’s main responsibilities are: 

• to appoint Trustees; 

• to monitor and support their work; and 

• to ensure our strategy is consistent with our charitable purpose and that it is being delivered by the Board.  

The Council’s strength comes from the breadth of knowledge and experiences of the people on it. It has 36 members and we encourage applications from all backgrounds to ensure the Council reflects the nation the charity serves. 

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable travel and subsistence expenses reimbursed.

You must be a member of the National Trust upon application to be eligible for the role.

Qualities Required

Candidates should demonstrate or acquire upon appointment, a good knowledge of:

• The core purpose of the Trust
• The Trust’s strategy: People and Nature Thriving
• The Trust’s governance, in particular the different roles of the Board and the Council

Find out more about the Council and role requirements at: National Trust Council website.

Working Pattern

Council members are elected from November 2026 for three years, and can expect to spend about ten days a year on Council business. There are three Council meetings a year, including one which is held as part of a three-day visit hosted by one of our regions or countries (England, Wales and Northern Ireland).

Meetings are a mix of in person and virtual.  The time commitment for this role is spread across these activities and includes time for preparation.  There is also the opportunity to get more involved if you wish with additional briefings, property visits or by supporting the work of the Council’s committees.