Trustees Volunteer Roles

Overall responsibility:

• Leading on the financial affairs of the Foodbank; ensuring that they are conducted within the required legal, accounting and good practice conventions;
• To work in partnership with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the financial viability and development of the Foodbank..

Key tasks are to ensure that the Trustees:

• Fulfil their financial responsibilities
• Have proper systems for budgeting, financial control, insurances, and reporting;
• Are informed by written report, at least on a quarterly basis; ensuring they have a clear picture of the financial health of the food bank;
• Develop a long-term strategy for the Foodbank with clear objectives, monitored and flexible
• Have reports in proper format, comprehensible and discussed properly at Trustee meetings including the AGM;
• Provide Annual Reports as required by the Charity Commission after proper independent examination

Other responsibilities - include working with Trustees to support appropriate:

• Financial plans for future budget allocations; looking after contractual agreements with external partners awarding money for core costs;
• Procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice; including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding, GDPR compliance/data protection;
• Promotion of the Foodbank to a wider audience of potential funders and beneficiaries; promote the Foodbank within the wider community;
• To act  with reasonable care and skill, giving time, thought and energy to your role.

Welcome Personal Skills and Attributes:

• To have a knowledge and understanding of the work of the Foodbank;
• To be respectful of the values the Foodbank was founded upon;
• To be enthusiastic about and involved with the operation;
• Previous experience and/or demonstrated ability in financial accounting and reporting procedures; communicating financial information to those who may have little financial background; and keeping all financial records up to date.

By leading on the financial matters for the Foodbank, you are part of providing an important support responsibility in your local community; ensuring a dignified experience to our clients and all who come into contact with Rochdale Foodbank.

In volunteering you will be using your existing skills to make a difference; you will meet people who share your passion to eradicate poverty in the local community and you will make a real difference to the running of the Foodbank.

A full Trustee induction is in place to support a prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary Trustee training through Action Together or the Trussell Trust. 

Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex & London (RAMFEL) seeks a dedicated and passionate individual to hold the Board and Executive Team to account in delivering on the organisation's mission and vision, in addition to providing leadership to the Board of Trustees.  

About RAMFEL:

RAMFEL is a charity that supports vulnerable migrants to access justice as well as providing vital support in moments of individual crisis. RAMFEL provide immigration advice (OISC level 3) and generalist advice in a range of areas to support clients. This goes alongside destitution services and support to build a new life in the UK, with ESOL classes and referrals for support accessing the labour market.

 About the Chair Role:

The Chair will be taking on this pivotal role at a crucial time in RAMFEL's growth and development as an organisation. To continue being the trusted voice on refugee and migrant issues, a suitably experienced individual with the right motivation and willingness to lead from the front in an ambassadorial role will be ideal.

 You will be responsible for:

• Holding the Board and Executive Team to account for the Charity's mission and vision, providing leadership to the Board of Trustees.
• Working closely with, and support, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO); ensuring that objectives are set in line with RAMFEL strategy, as well as providing healthy challenge where needed.
• Be responsible for promoting and maintaining a collaborative and inclusive culture among the Board, ensuring that members work together as a team to achieve agreed objectives
• Act as an ambassador and the public face of the charity in partnership with the Chief Executive.  

RAMFEL is committed to operating as an equal-opportunity organisation. We warmly welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this Chair role. We are looking for individuals to culturally add to this organisation, rather than fit an existing mould. We particularly encourage applications from individuals from the Global Majority and individuals who have first-hand lived experience themselves or through their parents as refugees and migrants. Your unique perspective and insights are valuable contributions to our community

Time commitment

We anticipate the chair will spend approx. 15 hours a month and this will flex depending on the requirements at the time. The Board meets 4 times a year and there will be two away/onsite days a year.

How to Apply:

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to RAMFEL on this appointment. If you believe your values align with those of RAMFEL and you are keen to be pivotal in driving forward the organisation's values and strategic goals, then we would love to hear from you.

To receive the full recruitment pack, which has the details about this role and how to apply, please send your CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People

 Timeline:

Q&A Webinar hosted by RAMFEL, where they will share further insights and answer any additional questions you may have. Please register your interest in attending this webinar with your consultant and we will send you a link:

Webinar : Tuesday 23rd April 18:00

Closing date for applications: Fri 10th May 12pm

First round interviews: w/c 20th May

Final interviews: w/c 27th May  

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.  

Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities with which we work.

Join the world-class Newcastle University as Lay Member of Council and use your legal, PR or IT expertise to play a vital part in the governance of the institution as it seeks to advance education, learning and research in the North East of England and globally.

Applications close at: 9 a.m. Monday 6th May 2024

Location: Newcastle

About Newcastle University

Newcastle University exists for the public benefit to advance education, learning, and research. We are a world-class university that advances knowledge, provides creative solutions, and solves global problems.

Newcastle University is proud to be a values-led, research-intensive university that makes a significant contribution to our city, region, and globally.

The University’s core values of equality, diversity, inclusion, social and environmental justice, and academic freedom are at the heart of everything we do.

We are passionate in our belief that universities should play a fundamental role in creating and fostering more equitable societies.

We aim to work collaboratively with our many external partners to shape brighter futures, grow the economy and champion social justice.

About the role

Lay members of Council have a vital part to play in the governance of the University and bring knowledge and experience of particular value, given the nature of the environment in which universities work.

Lay Members are expected to play an appropriate part in ensuring that the necessary business of Council is carried on efficiently, effectively, and in a manner appropriate for the proper conduct of public business. You will be expected to make rational and constructive contributions to debate and to make your knowledge and expertise available to Council as opportunities arise.

Members have a responsibility to ensure that the governing body acts in accordance with the instruments of governance of the University and exercises efficient and effective use of the resources of the University to meet its charitable objectives, maintain long-term financial viability, and safeguard its assets.

Members do not play an executive role, which is primarily advisory and facilitating, and we expect Members to establish a constructive and supportive, but challenging, working relationship with the University.

Members are covered by the University’s Professional Indemnity cover in respect of fulfilling their duties.

Members of Council are appointed for three years and membership may be renewed for up to two more terms of three years. It is hoped that Lay Members will serve on one or more of the Council’s sub-committees.

As such, the University is seeking Lay Council Members who can commit up to 16 days per year to this role, which roughly equates to a time commitment of one to two days per month.

You will be provided with a full induction and training opportunities to support your work on Council.

Who we are looking for

Newcastle University is seeking exceptional individuals to join the Council as Lay Members. This is an excellent opportunity to make a considerable contribution to advancing the University’s core mission.

We are particularly interested in those who bring the following experience, expertise, skills, and commitments:

• Expertise or background in the legal profession.
• Senior strategic leadership and/or policy experience in Public Relations or Information Technology.
• Prior governance experience, although not essential is advantageous.
• Collaborative, inclusive, and enabling approach.
• Commitment to being a strong external and internal ambassador for Newcastle University.
• Ability and willingness to contribute to a broad range of University matters.
• Committed to offering your time and expertise to meet the duties of the role.
• Strong commitment to the University’s values, mission and EDI ethos.

Newcastle University is committed to being a fully inclusive global University, which actively recruits, supports, and retains staff from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support, and thrive on the contributions of all our employees and the communities they represent.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from everybody, regardless of race, sex, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital status/civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, as well as being open to flexible working practices.

If you think you meet these criteria and have a genuine interest in supporting Newcastle University as a Lay Council Member, please do get in touch.

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 at 9 a.m. Monday 6th May 2024.

SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE

Blue smile is looking for a Trustee to join our friendly, committed and active Board, taking the lead on safeguarding, supporting the Chair of Trustees and Charity Director.

Blue Smile’s mission and purpose

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies.  We help over 200 children a week to be happier and have brighter futures.  We work with schools in Cambridge and the region providing children with one-to-one therapy.  We also directly support both schools and parents to help their children through our extensive Menu of Services.  We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

The charity has over 70 clinical experts working with us.  Our office team supply essential management and administrative support to this clinical work. 

Safeguarding is central to all Blue Smile activities, and we recognise that the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk, is paramount and that all have equal rights of protection. We have a duty of care when they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities.

Blue Smile's Trustees

The Trustees are responsible for appointing and overseeing the work of the Charity Director, making key decisions about the charity, and ensuring it is run appropriately and in compliance with the law and good governance.  The Trustees must ensure the charity carries out its purposes for the public benefit.  They must act in the charity’s best interest, manage its resources responsibly, act with reasonable care and skill and ensure the charity is accountable.

Why become a Trustee for Blue Smile?

This is an exciting time to be joining Blue Smile as we implement our Strategy for 2024 onwards.  Building on our excellent reputation for high quality, specialised work with young children, we want to develop our services and evaluation, invest in new systems, and grow our service to meet the increased need for child mental health support.  We also want to increase reach through additional services which impact the whole school community.

You will be joining a friendly, committed, and active Board and induction and training will be provided.

THE ROLE OF THE SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE

Though safeguarding is the responsibility of all trustees the Safeguarding Trustee will take the lead on safeguarding supporting the Chair of Trustees and Charity Director.

The Safeguarding Trustee will:

• Have oversight of the safeguarding policies and procedures. Ensuring there is an annual review which is reported to the other trustees. 
• Consider the charity's strategic plans in the light of safeguarding legislation and other relevant obligations and the safeguarding expectations of the Charities Commission.
• Check the charities risk register reflects safeguarding risks properly and work with the Board and Charity Director to plan sensible measures to take.
• Ensure there is space on the agenda for safeguarding reports and help trustees understand and challenge those reports.
• Attend relevant safeguarding training events.
• Support the trustees in developing their individual and collective understanding of safeguarding.

Experience and Skills we are looking for in a Safeguarding Trustee:

• Experience working in safeguarding for children and young people.
• Awareness of relevant guidance, particularly, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality on sensitive and confidential information.
• Commitment to the values (and ethics) of the charity.

Role type: Unremunerated/Volunteer (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Location:  Trustee meetings currently take place mainly online but attendance at Blue Smile offices in Central Cambridge, or other locations where we work, may be required from time to time

Commitment: Six meetings a year of the Trustee Board (usually on a weekday evening) Trustees are also represented on subcommittees and advisory groups which report to the Board. We would encourage the Safeguarding Trustee to be part of the Clinical and Ethics Committee which meets once a term.

Trustees may also offer support with projects and events as required and as their time allows.

We are committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation.  We welcome applications from all backgrounds.  We would encourage younger people to consider applying – you do not need to have held a trustee or similar role before.  We would also love to hear from you if you are from an under-represented groups at Blue Smile such as individuals from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQI+ people and people with a disability, or if you have experience of child and family statutory services in your own personal life.

Blue Smile is committed to safer recruitment and trustees will be expected to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

If you would like to be part of a welcoming and well-respected charity whose aim is to help children enjoy happier childhoods and brighter futures please send your CV and a covering letter outlining why you are interested in the Safeguarding Trustee role. Thank you!

About Smart Works 

Smart Works is a dynamic, high profile and fast-growing UK charity that dresses and coaches unemployed women for success at their job interview. We empower each woman by giving her the clothes and the confidence she needs to succeed. After visiting Smart Works, 69% of clients secure a job within a month, gaining financial independence and transforming their lives.

Smart Works Leeds, operating as a licensee of Smart Works Charity, is led by a Board of passionate and dedicated trustees, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the Smart Works service across Yorkshire.

More information about who we are can be found on our website.

About the opportunity  

The Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees consists of: Chair, Treasurer, People, Wardrobe & Property, Corporate Fundraising & Partnerships, Events, and Communications & Media Trustees. 

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join the Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees. The newly created Ambassador & Volunteer Trustee will lead on two fundamental activities at the Centre: 

• Ambassadors: Smart Works Leeds currently has one Ambassador. The Board is looking to grow our ambassador community. The position will help identify, onboard and work with the team of Smart Works Leeds Ambassadors to raise the profile of the Charity across the Yorkshire region.
• Volunteers: Smart Works is powered by a community of skilled volunteers who use their time, talents and kindness to help our clients. The position will oversee volunteer management and engagement for Smart Works Leeds and will work closely with the staff team to keep the volunteer community motivated and engaged in the charity’s mission. 

If you have valuable experience and skills to contribute to the Smart Works mission and would like to use your professional experience for good, we would love to hear from you.

General Duties of a Smart Works Trustee 

• Work with the Chair of the Board of Trustees to ensure the centre is well-run and governed effectively. 
• Provide support to determine the strategic direction of the Centre. 
• Advocate for the Centre, raising its profile and the awareness of the Smart Works service in the geographic area. 
• Build strong working relationships with the Chair, fellow trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters. 
• Work in a small team and tailor strong interpersonal and communication skills to all levels of seniority.

Personal Specification 

The successful Ambassador and Volunteer Lead Trustee will have excellent interpersonal skills and stakeholder management experience. 

They will use their skills and experience to attract, utilise and maximise the Ambassadors for Smart Works Leeds and they will nurture, coordinate and motivate the Smart Works Leeds volunteer community. 

As this is a voluntary, unpaid role it requires a self-starting and proactive approach with the capacity and time to challenge, engage and contribute to the work of the Board in a positive manner. 

It is essential that all applicants believe in the mission of Smart Works and align with our core values, share a commitment to fairness and to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion, acting at all times with honesty and integrity. 

If you possess the relevant experience and are seeking to give something back to the community in Yorkshire, then we would love to hear from you. Please note, you do not need to have previous experience of sitting on a board to join us although it would be an advantage.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled candidates, and candidates with lived experience of unemployment, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at Smart Works.

How to Apply  

Please visit our website or click "Apply Now" to find out more information - we can't wait to hear from you.

Join our Board as a Treasurer and play a key role in supporting people who have learning disabilities and/or autism to live the lives they want across Sussex and London.

Location: Home-based with some travel in Brighton & Hove

Who we are looking for.

Grace Eyre is looking for a qualified Treasurer / Finance Trustee to join their Board of Trustees. With an accountancy qualification or qualified by experience, ideally, we seek an individual with experience in capital build financing and monitoring — alongside experience in charity finance and accounting.

Having knowledge and experience in adult social care, learning disabilities/autism, or housing would be beneficial, but we welcome applicants from all sectors to bring broad perspective and financial acumen.

We also welcome applicants from minority and ethnic communities who are underrepresented on the Board. We value diverse perspectives from the widest possible range of backgrounds.

Responsibilities:

Grace Eyre Trustees are responsible for the Code of Conduct:

• Act within the governing document and the law,
• Act in the best interest of Grace Eyre as a whole,
• Manage conflicts of interest effectively,
• Respect confidentiality,
• Have a sound and up-to-date knowledge of Grace Eyre and its environment,
• Attend meetings and other appointments or give apologies,
• Prepare fully for meetings and all work for Grace Eyre,
• Actively engage in discussion, debate and voting in meetings,
• Acting jointly and accept a majority decision,
• Work considerately and respectfully with all.

Time commitment

The Board of Trustees hold 6 meetings a year. Each meeting requires 3 hours with reading time. The Treasurer would also Chair the Audit and Risk Committee.

• Audit and Risk Committee – meet 3 times a year.
• Remuneration Committee – meet once a year.
• Big Build Committee – currently meet 6 times a year with occasional attendance by the Treasurer.

Trustees are also welcome to attend one of the many events and internal team meetings.

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 at 12 p.m. Tuesday 7th May.

Age UK Bromley & Greenwich are the leading older persons organisation in both boroughs.  We are a local charity with over 80 staff and 250 volunteers we are seeking to add to the expertise of our experienced, professional Board of Trustees.

We are seeking individuals with experience of developing strategy in a leadership role in the public, private or charity sector; areas of experience including Health and Social Care, marketing and social media; charity finance and fundraising would all be of particular interest. Applicants are welcome from all backgrounds.

Please download the job pack for full role description.

Are you seeking to use your organisational and administrative skills to help provide a better future for disadvantaged children? We’re looking for a new secretary to assist with the running of our small but highly effective charity which provides impoverished children from North East Ghana with the uniform and equipment needed for primary school.

Starlight aims to ensure that children’s healthcare services fully reflect the importance of play to their health, wellbeing, resilience and recovery. Could you join their Board and help accelerate their impact on young lives through your philanthropic knowledge and networks?

Location: London

Time commitment: Up to 1 day per month

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 13th May

Who we are.

Starlight is the national charity for children’s play in healthcare. They support children to experience the power of play during treatment, care and recovery from illness in more than 600 healthcare settings across the UK.

Starlight believes that children’s healthcare services should fully reflect the importance of play to their health, wellbeing and resilience and that every child who is an inpatient should have daily play opportunities, appropriate to their condition, supported by dedicated play staff. They aim to enable all children in the UK to have their right to play protected and provided for when they are receiving healthcare – in or out of hospital.

Their recent report shows:

• 71% of Trusts and Health Boards do not have a designated budget for play resources.
• 85% of Trusts and Health Boards have no appropriate guidance or standards for health play.
• An average ratio of only one full-time HPS for 3,986 child admissions to hospital per year and there are 1.8 million hospital admissions for 0-17 year olds each year.

Starlight provides toys, technology, toolkits and training for play professionals to alleviate the immediate trauma that children are experiencing in hospitals across the UK. Using their uniquely curated research and evidence base, they also work towards systemic change in healthcare, galvanising a collaborative effort for the changes that are needed through policy and advocacy work.

About the role.

Starlight’s income needs to grow in pace with demand for its vital role as Champion and Protector of Play. The new Philanthropy Trustee role has been created to support this growth in a collaborative, relational and strategic way. This new Trustee will support the development of collaborative relationships and partnerships with individuals and organisations to grow income. They will bring a passion for Starlight’s work, ideas, introductions and opportunities as well as a contemporary and values-led mindset. They will work with the CEO and Director of Fundraising and Marketing to generate high-value philanthropic support in an enlightened and empowering way.

Who we are looking for.

An individual with a commitment to Starlight’s mission and vision and an understanding of how to create strategic income growth through relationships with individuals and organisations.

A person with a positive partnership approach to working.

Benefits.

The chance to make a transformative difference to children’s experience of healthcare across the UK through play.

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 at 9 a.m. Monday 13th May.

Member of Connexional Solidarity Circles (Carers, Rural, Disability, LGBT+, Racial Justice, and Women)

Closing date: 9am on 7 May 2024

Proposed tart date: 1 Sep 2024

Solidarity Circles for Disability, LGBT+, Racial Justice, and Women were launched in September 2023 as part of the Strategy for Justice, Dignity and Solidarity. We hope to start 2 new Solidarity Circles – one for Carers and one for Rural Communities in September 2024.

Solidarity Circles are online meetings for the Methodist Church to support people in different diversities of the Church’s life to meet regularly, to support one another and to raise with relevant Church leaders the concerns that need to be addressed. These circles act as consultative groups for the work of the Methodist Church and are supported and led by a volunteer coordinator.

Each Solidarity Circle is formed of up to 15 members who are appointed for one, two or three years with up to five new members recruited each year to ensure a diversity of views and experience are heard.

If you are passionate about working with others towards a fully inclusive church and meet the criteria then please consider applying to join one or more of the Solidarity Circles.

• Solidarity Circle for Disability
• Solidarity Circle for LGBT+
• Solidarity Circle for Racial Justice
• Solidarity Circle for Women
• Solidarity Circle for Carers
• Solidarity Circle for Rural Communities

For the role description and Solidarity Circle Terms of Reference, please review the Solidarity Circle Information pack. The pack also details the additional information regarding preferences and availability, which will need to be noted on your application.

The closing date for applications is 7 May 2024 by 9am.

A drop-in session has been arranged to support the recruitment for new Solidarity Circle members. The session will take place on 24 April from 7-8pm

Please view job on the Methodist Church jobs page to register your interest to attend drop-in

About Smart Works 

Smart Works is a dynamic, high profile and fast-growing UK charity that dresses and coaches unemployed women for success at their job interview. We empower each woman by giving her the clothes and the confidence she needs to succeed. After visiting Smart Works, 69% of clients secure a job within a month, gaining financial independence and transforming their lives.

Smart Works Leeds, operating as a licensee of Smart Works Charity, is led by a Board of passionate and dedicated trustees, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the Smart Works service across Yorkshire.

More information about who we are can be found on our website.

About the opportunity  

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join the Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees. 

The Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees consists of: Chair, Treasurer, People, Wardrobe & Property, Corporate Fundraising & Partnerships, Events, and Communications & Media Trustees. 

The Grants Trustee will lead on fundraising and charitable grants that are key to the ongoing operation and financial health of the Charity. The successful applicant will identify suitable foundations and will own the end-to-end grant application process.

If you have grant writing knowledge and skills to contribute to the Smart Works mission and would like to use your professional experience for good, we would love to hear from you.

General Duties of a Smart Works Trustee 

• Work with the Chair of the Board of Trustees to ensure the centre is well-run and governed effectively. 
• Provide support to determine the strategic direction of the Centre. 
• Advocate for the Centre, raising its profile and the awareness of the Smart Works service in the geographic area. 
• Build strong working relationships with the Chair, fellow trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters. 
• Work in a small team and tailor strong interpersonal and communication skills to all levels of seniority.

Personal Specification 

The successful applicant will have an understanding of grants, opportunities, application processes and be able to lead all aspects of this process and will possess previous experience in this field. 

As this is a voluntary, unpaid position it requires a self-starting and proactive approach with the capacity and time to challenge, engage and contribute to the work of the Board in a positive manner. 

It is essential that all applicants believe in the mission of Smart Works and align with our core values, share a commitment to fairness and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion, acting at all times with honesty and integrity. 

If you possess the relevant experience and are seeking to give something back to the community in Yorkshire, then we would love to hear from you. Please note, you do not need to have previous experience of sitting on a board to join us although it would be an advantage.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled candidates, and candidates with lived experience of unemployment, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at Smart Works.

How to Apply  

Please visit our website or click "Apply Now" to find out more information - we can't wait to hear from you.

General Secretary of ICOMOS-UK (executive position)

Minimum:  2 days per week

The current Secretary is stepping down after twenty years of service to ICOMOS-UK. We are looking for someone to fill the position starting in July 2024. This is currently a part-time un-paid executive (equivalent to a CEO) role with reasonable expenses for out of the office work.  It is an ideal opportunity for anyone who wishes to work as part of an international organisation and bring international heritage conservation ideas and knowledge and practice to the UK. It could suit someone who has part-time availability or has recently retired and wishes to retain an active involvement in the heritage sector within an international dimension. Experience of working in sectors relating to the historic/built environment and/or culture and heritage would be desirable. Experience in managing the development and delivery of governance, policy and operations for a small or medium sized organisation or as part of a larger organisation would be essential. We envisage that an increase in membership which ICOMOS-UK is working towards may generate funding to make the role paid in the future.

The Secretary reports to the President and manages a member of staff (part-time paid staff member) and volunteers who undertake work intermittently. 

We are expecting to fill this post by the beginning of July 2024 and would be happy to arrange an informal chat with ICOMOS-UK’s President about the role, on request.

Application process: closing date for the application is 17th May 2024. Candidates should send a CV, no longer than 2/3 pages, setting out why they wish to apply for the post and all relevant skills, knowledge and experience that support the application. Interviews are scheduled during first week in June 2024. The successful candidate will be notified soon after the interview date. 

Job Description

The role of the General Secretary 

The role of the General Secretary of ICOMOS-UK (equivalent to a CEO of a small organisation) is to take responsibility for the day-to-day function of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), to manage the secretariat (including the Operations Manager and volunteer staff), to support the work of the President and Executive Committee, and to oversee the national and international activities of ICOMOS-UK. The General Secretary will report to the President. 

The organisation has been through a review and has been implementing its revised vision to increase ICOMOS-UK’s membership, (which currently stands at 470-500), and raise the organisation’s profile. We are a broad church and our members come from a variety of background and includes architects, archaeologists, geographers, engineers, project managers, curators, planners, carpenters, specialists in intangible cultural customs and traditions etc.  Unlike many heritage organisations which were forced to close down during the pandemic, we were fortunate to retain our members throughout the lockdown and since which demonstrates the loyalty and support we already garner from our members. The General Secretary would work with the membership committee in sustaining this trend and identify new ideas to retain existing members and recruit new ones.

Main Duties / Key Responsibilities

1. To support the President and Executive Committee in the delivery of the work of ICOMOS-UK.
2. To develop, co-ordinate and present policy, as agreed with the Executive Committee.
3. To co-ordinate and manage the secretariat function of ICOMOS-UK including the Office Manager. To oversee the governance arrangements for ICOMOS-UK.
4. To work with the Treasurer on the budget, income generation and expenditure for ICOMOS-UK, including support for fund-raising activities and applications.
5. To help drive the recruitment and support of members of ICOMOS-UK.
6. To help coordinate and promote events supporting and disseminating the work of ICOMOS-UK.
7. To coordinate, promote and report on the activities of ICOMOS-UK committees to the membership, stakeholders and potential interest groups; to work with the committees on the implementation of their recommendations.
8. The post holder will be the secretary of the International Monuments Trust (IMT), convene meetings, take minutes and organise the transfer of payments.

Person Specification

You will have or develop:

•       strong drive and initiative
•       strong commitment to diversity and inclusion in all tasks
•       experience in using your own judgement
•       familiarity in reporting to and taking direction from the President and Executive Committee.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Required knowledge, skills and experience for the suitable candidate can be found on the attached Job Description.

Competency Framework

The competency Framework for the role can be found on the attached Job Description.

Dimensions

• Understanding of the work of ICOMOS, using knowledge and experience to proactively engage with Executive Committee and stakeholders.
• Supporting and undertaking work and providing reports to President and Executive Committee.
• Acting as a champion for ICOMOS’s work.

Background

What is ICOMOS?

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) was set up in 1965 and is a non-governmental international organisation dedicated to the conservation of the world’s monuments and sites. With around 11,000 individual members active in over 150 countries and a network of 130 National committees (similar to the one in the UK) spread across the world, ICOMOS is one of the most highly regarded conservation organisations in the world. Its 31 International Scientific Committees made up of heritage conservation specialists from across the globe are responsible for developing charters, principles and guidelines on conservation and management of cultural sites. It is one the three advisers to the UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee on cultural World Heritage properties (the other two being IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) and ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property)).

What is ICOMOS-UK?

ICOMOS-UK is one of the 130 national committees of ICOMOS. It is an independent charity, set up in 1965. We have an active membership of individuals and institutions who come from a wide range of backgrounds in the UK and worldwide. As a national committee based in the UK, ICOMOS-UK promotes appreciation and understanding of our built environment and landscape associated with it and UK’s diverse intangible cultural heritage.  It mirrors the structure of the international body. We have a UK board, a small Secretariat comprising an Operations Manager (OM) and a General Secretary. There are eight scientific committees which report to the Board. Our focus is on providing advice on good practice through the dissemination of ICOMOS’s international Charters, Principles and Guidelines and regular national and international events (conferences, lectures, panel discussions etc). We are also the only independent adviser on the implementation of 1972 World Heritage Convention and its Operational Guidelines to the UK Government and the 33 World Heritage sites situated across the UK. The Board and the eight scientific committees collaborate with the heritage, arts and education sectors in the UK and internationally in developing new thinking and making ICOMOS’s international standards relevant to the national context. 

Make a difference: Become a Trustee with Stay!

Stay is a leading homelessness charity in Telford and Wrekin and has been operating for over 30 years providing housing and support services to homeless and vulnerable people. We’re passionate about preventing homelessness and empowering individuals to rebuild their lives.

We're looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees.  The role is voluntary but travel and other reasonable expenses are paid. You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide an induction and training.

 This is a fantastic opportunity to:

· make a real difference to the lives of homeless individuals and families.

· gain valuable experience in charity governance and leadership.

· work alongside a dedicated and passionate team of individuals.

· contribute your skills and knowledge to a worthy cause.

We are looking for someone:

· with energy, enthusiasm, and commitment, who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

· who is a strategic thinker with decision-making skills.

· who is a team player.

· with effective communication skills and a willingness to participate actively in discussion.

· with enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in one of the following:

· Health and Safety

· Human Resources / Employment Law

· Law

However, all applications are welcome from those who share our passion for helping others. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

My Death, My Decision campaigns for a compassionate assisted dying law to help end unnecessary suffering for the terminally ill and those suffering unbearably. You can lead its strategic initiatives and inspire the team to achieve the goal.

As our current Chair must step down at the end of 2024, we are seeking a Chair elect to join the board no later than the end of the first quarter of 2024. This will allow shadowing of the current Chair to ensure a smooth transition, by maintaining continuity and facilitating a seamless handover of leadership.

As the Chair of My Death, My Decision, you will play a pivotal role in leading our organisation to further our campaign goals. We are seeking an individual who is passionate about the cause either from personal experience or from professional engagement with those making end of life choices.

You will be a seasoned leader with a proven track record of strategic thinking and decision-making, whether in the context of a campaign, a charity or a not-for-profit company. Your leadership should inspire and guide our team towards achieving our mission, making a tangible impact. 

If you have a history of successfully steering an organisation, are passionate about our cause, and believe in the values of autonomy, dignity, and compassion, we encourage you to apply for this pivotal role.

Key Responsibilities

• Governance: Oversee the governance of My Death, My Decision, including chairing board meetings and member meetings, ensuring effective decision-making processes and working closely with the Director of Finance.
• Leadership and Coordination: Provide strong leadership by chairing events, onboarding new board members, and coordinating our membership at the ‘World Federation of Right to Die Societies’.
• Spokesperson: Act as the primary spokesperson for My Death, My Decision, responding to media requests and inquiries, demonstrating in-depth knowledge of the campaign and its objectives.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as a key point of contact with our patrons, benefactors, and key supporters, nurturing relationships and promoting our mission.
• Miscellaneous: This role will require the successful candidate to ensure the smooth running of the organisation, both internally and in its external presentation. This will include occasional tasks outside of the realm of the job description. 

We are looking for a board member willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role.

You will be a good fit for this role if you have:

• Commitment & Enthusiasm: A strong passion for changing the law on assisted dying and a commitment to our campaign goal. The ability to inspire and engage others.
• Knowledge on assisted dying: As the role of chair will require much external engagement with relevant stakeholders and the media, in-depth understanding of the subject matter is essential. We are however willing to consider candidates who have a broad understanding but need time to become familiar with the details of the campaign during the Chair elect transition referred to above.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong strategic thinking skills to develop and execute a campaign strategy in collaboration with other board members and small team of MDMD staff.
• Governance skills: Previous experience around not for profit governance.
• Communication skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to act as a spokesperson for the organisation, in particular towards bodies such as the Houses of Parliament, medical associations, the media etc.

What difference will you make?

This is an opportunity to effect real change and make a difference by achieving law change that will:

• respect autonomy, ensure dignity and end unnecessary suffering for those at the most challenging times of their lives; and
• provide choice for those making critical decisions about their lives and how they might end. 

We are committed to an evidence-based law which would balance individual choice alongside robust safeguards, and we are not afraid to confront uncomfortable truths or expose specious arguments.

You can be the dynamic motivator of the work of our members, supporters, patrons and activists as we help to broaden the assisted dying debate and seek to enshrine the values of autonomy, dignity, and compassion into assisted dying legislation. 

How to apply

We do not have a prescribed application form. A covering email or letter and CV are suggested. Approved applicants may be interviewed on an ongoing basis rather than after the closing date. In the event of a successful candidate being selected, the opportunity will be withdrawn.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Upbeat Communities achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity, and they also ensure we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the leadership team to enable Upbeat Communities to grow and thrive, and through this, empower refugees to thrive.

Through regular meetings, strategy days and written reports provided to the board, trustees are able to set the direction of the organisation, develop its strategic objectives and support and keep the staff team accountable in delivering on these
strategic goals.

Trustee meetings are currently held every 2 months either in person in Derby or online (hybrid). We have an annual strategy away day and trustees are also invited to be part of our sub-committees. Trustees are requested to be available to attend occasional ‘unscheduled’ meetings or engage in email communications which address urgent business as it arises, join working groups when needed and spend time preparing for meetings by reading and considering the papers circulated before meetings.

Benefits of Being a Trustee

We believe being a trustee of Upbeat Communities offers a number of fantastic
benefits:

• Strategic decision-making that positively impacts the lives of over a thousand
• asylum seekers and refugees every year
• Supporting an innovative, talented and passionate staff team as they develop
• our work and explore new services and ways of working
• Being part of a committed and focused trustee team working to see the charity
• grow
• Using your skills, experience and passion to contribute to an effective and wellfunctioning
• board
• Opportunities to learn new skills and experiences to contribute to your own
• personal development

Duties

Any individual acting as a trustee for Upbeat Communities would be required to
carry out the following:

• Promote the vision, mission and values of the charity
• Ensure Upbeat Communities and its representatives function within all legal and
• regulatory requirements applicable, and in line with its constitution, continually
• striving for best practice in governance
• Determine the overall direction and development of Upbeat Communities
• through good governance and clear strategic planning
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their
• implementation
• Oversee Upbeat Communities’ financial plans and budgets and monitor and
• evaluate progress
• Review and approve the charity’s financial statements
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively
• Provide support and challenge to Upbeat Communities’ Chief Executive in the
• exercise of their delegated authority and affairs
• Contribute to regular reviews of Upbeat Communities’ own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, and be adequately prepared to contribute to
• discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and
• protect the charity’s interests, avoiding any personal conflict of interests
• Take appropriate professional advice in all matters where there may be a
• material risk to the charity
• Maintain confidentiality about all aspects of the trustee’s business

Finance Specific Duties

• Lead on the strategic financial management of the charity at board level
• Liaise with our outsourced finance team (including our Finance Director)
• Chair the finance sub-committee (which meets 6 times per year ahead of every
• board meeting)
• Maintain a clear grasp of the charity’s financial position and ensure full and
• timely financial transparency and information disclosure to the board
• Support the board of trustees in financial decision making processes
• Review and approve annual budgets
• Advise on banking and investments
• Take an active role in the financial audit process
• Contribute to the financial management of our trading subsidiary (Upbeat
• Enterprises Limited)