Finance trustee volunteer roles
St Michaels and All Saints Charities
Role: Trustees
Location: Oxford
Salary: Voluntary role; out of pocket expenses may be claimed and investment in trustee development is provided
About us
St Michael’s and All Saints’ Charities are based in Oxford and comprise several historical charities whose purpose is to support the Church of St Michael at the North Gate in Central Oxford and to award grants to charities and other organisations where appropriate in the City of Oxford and Oxfordshire. The Charities have a long history dating back to the Charter of 1612 under the Great Seal of James I, on display in the Saxon Tower of St Michaels, but are also proud to be able to support both church, city of Oxford and Oxfordshire more broadly in the 21st century and beyond.
The Charities help St Michael’s to continue to be an active church community in the heart of Oxford, with the Vicar acting as City Rector with Oxford City Council and working pastorally with city centre businesses and visitors. The Charities support the upkeep of the church buildings allowing the church to be open every day for personal quiet and for the enjoyment of its historical heritage.
In awarding grants the Trustees (also known as Feoffees) have been able to support local charities over many years which focus on community benefit and relief of hardship, especially those working with the homeless, refugees and young people. These charitable objectives are supported through the income from its permanent endowment which comes substantially, although not exclusively, from property in Oxford.
The Trustees strive to continuously improve the governance of the Charities and are now actively seeking new Trustees to join their dedicated and collaborative board to provide strategic support in their field of expertise and support overall governance and leadership of the organisation.
We are looking for candidates who are willing to develop a sympathetic understanding of the work of the Charities and are experienced in working in an environment governed by a legislative/regulatory framework, be it charitable, non-profit or private sector.
The Charities invites expressions of interest for the following roles:
· Chair Designate of the Board of Trustees; the current Chair plans to retire from the role in 2026
· Trustee who would join the Charities’ Property and Investment Subcommittee.
Our priority is to increase both the legal and financial or investment management expertise on our Trustee board and so applicants should be able to evidence experience in at least one of these two areas.
The Charity has two subcommittees which have delegated authority to oversee various elements of governance and compliance:
· Property and Investment subcommittee which oversees the financial governance of the charity in relation to financial performance, risk and sustainability and property management and investment and ensuring policies, systems and processes are fit for purpose.
· Grant subcommittee that scrutinises governance, systems and processes and monitors impacts and outcomes.
We also ensure that trustees feel supported in their role and offer mentoring to new trustees during their induction period as well as ongoing support and training.
The Charities welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age or other category protected by law.
For full details of this rewarding opportunity and how to apply, please download a recruitment pack.
If you would like to discuss the trustee role before applying, contact Louise Packer, Clerk to the Feoffees.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Vacancy
We are excited to announce that we are looking to appoint a new Trustee Treasurer to our well-established Board.
This vacancy has arisen as our existing Treasurer is progressing to a new position within the Charity Board and we are, therefore, seeking the ideal candidate to fill this position.
As our Treasurer, in addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, your role will be to maintain an overview of the organisation’s financial affairs to ensure its financial viability, keeping the Board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities, and ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are implemented and maintained by the executive.
You’ll also build a strong relationship with our Finance Director, supporting in providing guidance as required.
The Treasurer provides invaluable support not only to our main Charity Board but also as the Chair of the Finance and Risk committee.
Qualifications/Experience:
Proven experience of operating at a Strategic Level, ideally as a Finance Director or similar.
Charity finance experience or understanding advantageous but not essential.
Application of sound judgement and collaboration with others is key to the success of this role.
Terms of office
- Trustees are appointed for a three-year term of office, renewal for one further term to a maximum of six years.
- This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
Time commitment
- Attending four Board meetings annually.
- Attending annual strategy and training days.
Committee membership
You will be required to attend two other committees in addition to the mainboard. This will require attendance at an additional 8 meetings annually.
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Julia’s House achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity, ensure that the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. So, if you have the skills and experience we need we'd love to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Terms of appointment:
- Trustees are appointed for a three-year term of office, renewable for one additional three-year term. In special circumstances, trustees may be approved for a third consecutive three-year term, serving a maximum of nine years.
- This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
Time commitment
- Meetings: Attend four 2-hour Board meetings annually (two remote, two in-person) and quarterly 30-minute catch-ups with the Chair of the Board of Trustees.
- Awayday: Participate in one full-day, in-person Awayday each year.
- Subcommittees: Some trustees are expected to attend subcommittee meetings, which occur prior to the Board meetings. Currently, there are two subcommittees: Finance, Audit, and Risk; and Nomination, Remuneration, and Culture.
Visit our website to learn more about our work and impact.
Role Description:
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Women in Prison achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity.
For the full job description, please read the recruiment pack.
Duties:
- Support and provide advice on Women in Prison’ purpose, vision, goals and activities.
- Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
- Oversee Women in Prisons’ financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
- Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
- Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
- Review and approve Women in Prisons’ financial statements.
- Provide support and challenge to Women in Prisons’ CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
- Keep abreast of changes in Women in Prison’s operating environment.
- Contribute to regular reviews of Women in Prisons’ own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
- Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Women in Prisons’ interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
What we are looking for
- We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.
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The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Become a Trustee at Sunrise Multicultural Project
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?
We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Sunrise Multicultural Project.
As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping our strategy, ensuring we stay true to our mission, and supporting the development of initiatives that promote inclusivity and integration. We are seeking individuals with a range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences – whether in community work, finance, governance, fundraising, or marketing – who share our commitment to empowering minority groups and fostering a more connected, diverse community.
If you are eager to contribute your time, expertise, and passion, we would love to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and contribute to the direction of our organisation. ARU Students' Union are recruiting a Trustee with strategic Finance experience.
What will you be doing?
ARU Students’ Union has grown in size and scope over recent years, and so too has ourresponsibility to support an increasingly diverse and dynamic student body. Representingstudents on six campuses across the East of England and London has prompted us to reflect onhow we can best meet the needs of students and continue to provide exceptional services andsupport.
We’ve listened to our students, staff teams and stakeholders, learned from their experiences,and developed a plan that will drive us forward as an organisation, providing our students withgreater opportunities for involvement, support, and personal growth and we’re excited about thelaunch of our new strategy later this year.
We are looking to appoint a Trustee to our Board, with expertise in Finance.
For this role, you will need to evidence extensive experience in a senior professional financialrole, with solid strategic financial management skills. A working knowledge of the rules andregulations governing charity finance and corporate risk management would be advantageous,and a professional accountancy qualification is essential. As it anticipated that the successfulcandidate will lead the Finance and Risk Committee, confidence chairing strategic meetingseffectively is essential.
What are we looking for?
Financial
- For this role, you will need to evidence extensive experience in a senior professional financialrole, with solid strategic financial management skills. A working knowledge of the rules andregulations governing charity finance and corporate risk management would be advantageous,and a professional accountancy qualification is essential. As it anticipated that the successfulcandidate will lead the Finance and Risk Committee, confidence chairing strategic meetingseffectively is essential.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, you will play an essential role in guiding our new strategy, ensuring that we stay focused on our mission and achieve the goals we’ve set out. You will have the opportunity to contribute your expertise, and perspectives to help shape the future of ARU Students’ Union.
Before you apply
We’ll ask you to complete our online application to clearly demonstrate how you meet the requirements for the role. We will also ask for the names, positions, organisations and email addresses for two referees, relevant to this role. References will only be taken once your express permission has been granted. Successful applicants will also be asked to complete an enhancedDBS check.
If you have any questions on any aspect of the appointment process, need additional information, or would like to talk to someone informally before you apply, please contact us via Reach.
Thank you!
We’re looking for new Trustees
YHA enables everyone, especially young people, to connect with each other, nature and heritage through hostels in amazing places throughout England and Wales. Since 1930, we’ve been increasing access to travel and adventure. It’s our aim to reach and positively impact the lives of more people from more diverse backgrounds. And we target our support to young people and groups from under-served communities.
It’s a really exciting time to join YHA as we’ve just launched a refreshed strategy that will see us focus our activities and deepen our impact with the aim of growing people’s confidence, connection and sense of belonging - outcomes vital to wellbeing in this uncertain world.
What you’ll get from joining our Board
- the opportunity to contribute to the success of a national charity
- the chance to use your knowledge to make a valuable contribution to society
- a full induction and membership of an inclusive, welcoming Board
This could be a great fit for you
You don’t need to have been on a Board before to become a YHA Trustee. We’re looking for people who support our mission and values, and who can act as ambassadors for YHA.
What matters most is that you bring good communication and listening skills, fair and reasoned decision-making, the confidence to challenge and support constructively, and time to commit to the role.
Diversity
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and strongly encourage people from the global majority to apply. These voices are currently under-represented on our Board, and we are committed to changing that.
Valuable additional strategic experience
We’re also looking to strengthen the Board with Trustees who bring strategic insight in one or more of the following areas:
- Finance
- Hospitality
- Information technology, cyber security and data protection
- Leadership in a schools environment
Please note, you don’t need to have all these attributes to apply.
Candidates must be over 16 years of age.
Experience comes in many forms. Whether you’ve taken part in a community group, student council, parent committee, trade union, local campaign, or formal Board settings - those insights are all valuable here.
Application deadline: 9am on 21 July 2025
Registered Charity
501 - 1000
Enrich the lives of all, especially young people, by providing brilliant hostel stays and experiences that improve physical health & mental wellbeing.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
�� Help Guide Our Vision – Become a Trustee Today ��
Location: Norwich
Time Commitment: Approx. 10 hours per month
Closing Date: Sunday 20th July
Do you have a passion for mental health and a desire to make a difference in your community?
We are seeking dynamic and committed individuals to join our board of trustees - individuals who can bring a diverse range of perspectives, skills, and experiences to help shape the strategic direction of our Charity.
No matter your level of experience, if you are passionate, motivated, and ready to contribute, you can bring something unique to our board. As a trustee, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our charity and ensuring we continue to support people in our region living with mental health challenges.
Your involvement will help drive our mission to provide high-quality services and raise awareness about mental health in Norfolk and Waveney.
We are keen to hear from applicants with backgrounds in HR, finance, health and safety, training, digital technology, mental health and other specialist areas. Your expertise in these fields will be invaluable in helping us strengthen our organisation, navigate challenges, and seize new opportunities.
We are also keen to hear from applicants starting out in their careers. Being a trustee is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference while developing valuable skills and experiences. Whether you’re at University, finishing College, or early in your career, your fresh perspectives and unique insights are exactly what we need to help shape our future.
About Norfolk and Waveney Mind - Our vision is simple yet powerful: ‘All people are supported with their mental health to live a life that is meaningful to them.’
As a registered charity, we are dedicated to supporting individuals facing mental health difficulties and advocating for better mental health services. Trustees are responsible for guiding the charity to fulfil its charitable purposes and ensuring we make the best possible use of available resources.
What We Are Looking For
We value a broad spectrum of expertise, including but not limited to leadership, governance, finance, fundraising, legal, and sector-specific knowledge. Above all, we are looking for individuals who are passionate about our mission and are dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. As a trustee, you will play a key role in guiding the organization, providing oversight, and ensuring we continue to thrive and achieve our goals.
As a trustee, you will:
- Bring a deep commitment to mental health support and have an understanding of the charity’s work.
- Act as an ambassador for Norfolk and Waveney Mind, raising awareness of the importance of mental health and the services we provide.
- Contribute your expertise and insights to the board discussions and decision-making process.
- Participate in fundraising and awareness-raising events, should you wish.
We are looking for people who demonstrate:
- A strong understanding of the legal responsibilities and duties of trusteeship.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work as part of a collaborative team.
- Good independent judgement, creative thinking, and strategic vision.
- The ability to operate within a flexible and adaptable framework, with a high degree of professionalism and integrity.
Key Responsibilities
As a trustee, your role will include:
- Ensuring the charity follows its purpose and operates within its governing document.
- Overseeing the charity’s financial stability and ensuring it applies resources effectively.
- Safeguarding the reputation and values of Norfolk and Waveney Mind.
- Contributing to the development and evaluation of long-term strategy and key performance targets.
- Providing guidance on key issues, initiatives, and challenges the charity faces.
What We Offer You
- The opportunity to make a tangible impact on mental health services in Norfolk and Waveney.
- The chance to work with a committed and passionate team of trustees and senior leadership.
- A personal induction and ongoing training, as well as regular updates on the charity’s work.
- Reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in conducting business of the charity will be reimbursed line with our guidelines.
Time Commitment and Requirements
Trustees should be able to commit approximately 10 hours per month, with flexibility for varying demands. This includes attending:
- Monthly board meetings (held remotely or at our Sale Road offices in Norwich).
- Participation in sub-committees (optional but encouraged).
- Periodic training sessions and attendance at all-staff meetings (at least once per calendar year).
- Ad hoc visibility at public, fundraising, and social events.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about mental health and believe you can make a difference, we want to hear from you. You will be redirected to the Norfolk and Waveney Mind website to apply online.
We welcome applications from people from all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, socio-economic classes, religions and disabilities. Here at Norfolk and Waveney Mind, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone is passionate about mental health feels valued and supported.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Hive is a community arts charity in Shipley, Bradford. We deliver arts and crafts courses, workshops and projects from our centre in Shipley and across Bradford District. We believe that creativity contributes to good health and wellbeing and helps to bring communities together.
We're seeking new Trustees to join our board to oversee our vision and leadership and our legal and financial responsibilities.
Trustees are responsible for ensuring that the charity carries out its activities for the public benefit, in line with its charitable objectives and powers.
The Trustees take collective responsibility and have a legal duty to:
- comply with the charity’s governing document and the law
- act in the charity’s best interests
- manage the charity’s resources responsibly
- act with reasonable care and skill
- ensure the charity is accountable.
In particular we are currently looking for people with experience or skills in HR, finances, safeguarding and governance, but you do not need any special qualifications or previous experience of being a Trustee.
All Hive Trustees should:
- be committed to Hive’s charitable objectives:
- the advancement of education for the public by the provision of vocational and other training courses; and
- the provision of facilities for recreation and leisure time activities for people who have need of them by reasons of age, infirmity or disablement, poverty or social and economic circumstances with a view to improving the conditions in life of such persons.
- be passionate about creativity and the creative arts
- have a positive, non-judgemental attitude to working with people of any ethnic background, culture or religion, gender, family status, sexual identity or who may have a disability.
- approach challenges and problems positively and creatively
- have good independent judgement
- be willing to speak their mind openly but sensitively, and to listen to others
- show empathy towards others
- demonstrate strategic vision
- understand the need for, and be committed to, confidentiality and safeguarding
- work well as part of a focused team, and be prepared to adopt collective decisions
- be willing and able to devote sufficient time and effort to the role
- be enthusiastic and reliable
- follow Nolan’s seven principles of public life:
- selflessness
- integrity
- objectivity
- accountability
- openness
- honesty
- leadership.
Registered Charity
1 - 5
Our mission is to use creativity to connect, engage and develop individual potential.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Longleigh Foundation is a grant-making charity working to improve the lives and wellbeing of people living in social housing across the UK. From emergency grants that keep people afloat, to funding pioneering research that addresses systemic inequalities, we’re committed to transforming lives and influencing lasting change.
With our new strategy launching this summer, we’re looking for three new Trustees to join our dedicated Board and help drive our next phase of growth and impact.
We’re particularly seeking experience in:
· Finance and Accounting
· Investments
· HR / OD / People Management
· Governance, ideally with a charity setting
· Customer Services / Social Investment within Social Housing
…but above all, we want people who share our vision, values and commitment to social justice.
We warmly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of social housing and from under-represented communities, especially those identifying as Black, Asian or from other minority ethnic backgrounds.
What you’ll bring:
- Integrity and sound judgement
- Strategic thinking
- Commitment to our mission and values
- Willingness to contribute your skills and time
Trustees serve an initial term of three years, renewable for up to two further terms. Most meetings are virtual, making this an accessible and flexible opportunity.
Why join us?
- Be part of an ambitious and compassionate charity
- Influence real change in the social housing sector
- Learn and grow alongside a skilled and passionate Board
Make a tangible difference to people’s lives.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
YMCA Trinity Group – Trustees
‘Inspiring communities, transforming young lives’
Job Advert Ref: Trustees2025
Registered Address: YMCA Trinity Group, Queen Anne House, Gonville Place, Cambridge CB1 1ND
YMCA Trinity Group is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Our programs span Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, putting people at the core of our mission. We take time to find the right fit, believing that open dialogue builds the strongest Board. We're a dynamic, team-oriented group seeking members who can contribute their unique skills and experience.
We are specifically looking for expertise and skills in the following areas;
· Business Development
· Strategic Planning
· Change Management
· People and Culture
· Finance
· Marketing
· IT
YMCA Trinity Group has served local communities since 1852, and we're committed to a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We also welcome young people seeking Board experience.
Trustee roles are both rewarding and demanding. Join us in creating new possibilities for young people and communities. If you're ready to make a difference, we want to hear from you!
Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you soon!
YMCA Trinity Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff to share this commitment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Cheltenham Trust is the driving force behind the town’s vibrant arts, culture, heritage, sport, and leisure scene. We proudly manage some of Cheltenham’s most iconic venues — including Pittville Pump Room, Leisure at Cheltenham, the Prince of Wales Stadium, Cheltenham Town Hall, and The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum.
We’re now seeking passionate and visionary trustees to help guide our next chapter.
This is a transformational moment for the Trust. As we launch our bold new five-year strategy, we’re expanding our programmes, deepening community engagement, and forging exciting new partnerships — both locally and beyond.
Together with relevant sector experience, we’re especially keen to hear from individuals with expertise in:
- Digital, IT & Systems Transformation
- Finance & Audit
- Human Resources
Whether you're an experienced trustee or new to the role, if you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in Cheltenham’s cultural life, we’d love to hear from you. The Cheltenham Trust is committed to building a diverse & inclusive Board, so we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences & communities.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Are you passionate about making a real difference for people affected by cancer? Tenovus Cancer Care is seeking new Trustees to help guide our charity at a pivotal moment in our history.
We’re especially keen to hear from individuals with experience in:
· Finance, audit & risk management
· Digital
· Retail
· Fundraising
· Business / entrepreneurship
· Health inequalities
For over 80 years, Tenovus Cancer Care has been giving help, hope, and a voice to people affected by cancer across Wales. Each year, we support thousands of people through our dedicated nurses, counsellors, and benefits advisors - and with cancer diagnoses rising, our work is more critical than ever.
We are eager to expand our diversity and are committed to building a Board that reflects the broad communities we serve.
A copy of our Trustee Recruitment Pack is attached.
Deadline: 21 August 2025
Interviews: 9-11 September 2025
Deadline: 21 August 2025
Interviews: 9-11 September 2025
If you’re ready to share your skills and time to help shape our future, we’d love to hear from you.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
We are here for everyone affected by cancer We offer information, advice and specialist support to everyone who needs it.
Thank you!
Could you be a trustee for Avenues?
Avenues Group is a specialist provider of adult social care, supporting people with complex needs to enjoy life. We always want to do things better, and as part of our development we are now looking for new trustees.
Our trustee group has to reflect the diversity of the people we support and the communities in which we work, and we welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds.
We would particularly like to hear from people with lived experience of disability, encouraging people who are accessing support services, and neurodivergent people.
Do you have experience in any of the following?
- Care Sector Financial Experience to join our Board and Finance Committee
- Health and Social Care Experience (outside Avenues) to join our Board and one committee (to be decided).
- People management and organisational development to join our Board and the People, Culture and Reward Committee
- Risk Management (specialising in a quality, compliance and regulatory environment) to join our Board and our Audit and Risk Committee.
If so, we'd like to meet you, apply today and to find out more about us and the role please download the attached trustee pack and role profile.
Still unsure if this role is for you? We are happy to offer an informal chat with our Head of Governance so feel free to contact us and we can organise this.
Why join us?
You’ll be part of an organisation that instils its values at all levels of the business, ensuring the people we support are at the forefront of our decisions.
Our people love working here, and most trustees stay for many years, becoming as passionate as we are.
This opportunity will be useful for anyone wanting to learn more about being a trustee, full training and support will be provided, and wishing to develop a more rounded skill set. It can also be a fantastic opportunity for someone with many years of experience to share their skills.
As part of our recruitment process, the successful candidates will meet and be interviewed by different stakeholders including people we support and Chairs of Committees as well as our CEO, current Group Boards Chair and other trustees of the board.
Interviews are planned week commencing w/c 18th August and w/c 25th August (subject to any changes due to availability of stakeholders).
We will process your data in line with our privacy policy. To find out more read the Privacy Notice on our website. We want you to have control over your data. You can contact us at any time to request or change the data that we hold about you or even if you just have a question relating to the data, we hold about you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact in the rare disease community?
Are you interested in supporting the growth of a thriving charity that is expanding its reach and ambition?
If so, Beacon for Rare Diseases is looking for at least two new Trustees to help shape our future and strengthen our support for individuals and families affected by rare conditions.
About Beacon for Rare Diseases
Beacon for Rare Diseases is a small but growing charity dedicated to transforming outcomes for those living with rare diseases by building a united rare disease community with patient groups at its heart.
Patient groups are a lifeline for rare disease patients and their families. When a rare diagnosis is made, many people are simply handed a one-page Google printout of the condition and told to go home and live their lives as best as they can. No one knows anything about the condition. There is no treatment. There is nothing anyone can do. The alarming lack of knowledge, support and understanding from the healthcare sector propels these individuals and families into isolation with more questions than answers.
Patient groups break this isolation by connecting people with shared conditions, helping them share experiences, answering questions, and driving change in neglected rare diseases. At Beacon, we help these patient groups form, grow, and professionalise – helping them be the best they can be to support the whole rare disease community.
Since founding in 2012, we have expanded our programmes and outreach, aiming to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support services across the UK and beyond. In this time, we have supported over 400 rare disease patient groups. As such, our patient group Empowerment Programme continues to drive our organisation’s core mission: we have over 600 users on our e-learning platform, The Resources Hub, and had 296 live training event attendees in the last year.
This core patient group training is now supplemented by a leading role in the European REMEDi4ALL consortium for drug repurposing, and a role in the Hub for LifeArc’s new Translational Centres for Rare Disease. Our growing project diversity and impact is driven by our enthusiastic and committed team, which has grown from three people in 2018 to a peak of 12 staff in 2024-25. This charity also benefits from a stable leadership group, with our CEO and COO spending 10 and 9 years respectively at Beacon.
“Beacon helps make what seems impossible, possible.”
The trustee role
As we enter an exciting new phase of development under a new Chair of Trustees, we are looking for Trustees who can bring fresh expertise to our board.
We are particularly interested in recruiting:
- A Trustee with lived experience of a rare disease or of patient group leadership, to help ensure our work remains grounded in the real needs of our community and to guide patient-centred decision-making.
- A Trustee with financial expertise, to review and advise on our financial reporting, oversight, and strategic financial planning.
- A Trustee with fundraising and investment experience, especially someone able to help Beacon broaden its network and build long-term relationships with funders keen to support the charity on a sustainable basis.
About the Role
As a Trustee, you will help set the strategic direction of Beacon for Rare Diseases, oversee the organisation’s activities, and support its ongoing growth. Your responsibilities will include ensuring compliance with charity regulations, financial stewardship, and working with the team on fundraising and partnership development. There will also be opportunities for advocacy and raising awareness about rare diseases at a national level, both through Beacon’s own events and projects, and representing Beacon in the wider rare disease community.
This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future of a charity that is expanding its reach and capabilities nationally and internationally, helping us to better serve our community and increase our impact.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Attend quarterly board meetings.
- Provide strategic advice and guidance to the CEO and staff.
- To provide oversight on the charity’s finances and governance – including the review of management accounts and contribution to the annual accounting process.
- To attend an annual day-long strategy meeting with the board and employees, and at least one Beacon event each year (reasonable travel expenses where in-person attendance is required will be covered).
- To provide support, advice or training for Beacon’s patient engagement events on an ad hoc basis and based on your experience.
- To advocate for Beacon and rare disease patient groups through your work and network, offering connections that support the organisation’s goals, and represent Beacon, our mission and interests at external events with the support or guidance of the CEO, board and Beacon team.
- To help ensure the sustainability of Beacon as an organisation and the fulfilment of our mission, to ensure no one walks their rare disease journey alone.
About You
We are looking for individuals who are committed to improving outcomes for people with rare diseases and who can bring fresh perspectives and expertise to our Board. Specifically:
- For the lived experience role: personal experience of a rare disease or patient group leadership and a passion for advocacy and patient support.
- For the financial role: experience in financial management, reporting, auditing, or strategic financial planning.
- For the fundraising and networking role: experience in large fundraising campaigns – whether charitable or corporate investment – a diverse network, and success engaging with high-net-worth individuals.
You should be an enthusiastic team player, comfortable with governance and strategic discussion, and eager to help Beacon navigate its next chapter of growth.
Benefits of Joining
This is a voluntary role, but with potential to guide the continued growth and development of an ambitious charity, well positioned in the field of rare diseases – an issue likely to grow in importance and relevance with the rapid advances in genetic science, and the increased focus on health equality and equity in the UK and beyond.
You will get the opportunity to:
- Contribute to a pioneering, expanding charity with a vital mission.
- Gain governance experience and develop leadership skills.
- Be part of a passionate community making a real difference to lives affected by rare diseases.
- Play a key part in shaping the future direction of Beacon for Rare Diseases.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to the email in the full job description. We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and are committed to equality and inclusion.
The deadline for applications is 4th August 2025. Shortlisted candidates will first be invited for a phone conversation, followed by a formal interview process including the opportunity to meet the team and observe a Trustee meeting.
FAQs
What is the time commitment?
Trustees typically meet quarterly, with additional time required for committee involvement and specific projects. We estimate around 4–6 hours per month, adaptable to your availability.
How long is the term for a Trustee?
Beacon does not currently have a fixed term of trusteeship, though trustees are required to resign and seek re-election by the board every two to three years. We may explore more fixed term appointments in the future and would look for at least a two-year commitment from any new trustees.
Where are meetings held?
The majority of meetings are held online using zoom. In person strategy days are generally held in Cambridge, close to the train station, though locations in central London may also be explored for face-to-face meetings in the future.
Do I need to be a UK citizen, or based in the UK?
No. Beacon is open to appointing trustees from outside the UK, but, as a UK registered charity we need to retain a majority of our board and our focus within the UK. If you are seeking to apply for this position from beyond the UK, we recommend you contact Beacon to discuss your application in advance.
I have no prior experience as a trustee – can I still apply?
Absolutely. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and will provide support and resources to help you succeed in the role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Trustee – (Chair, Finance, Audit & Risk Committee)
Help shape a greener, healthier and more sustainable future.
Our client is one of the UK’s most inspiring environmental initiatives—restoring and connecting woodland, championing sustainability, and improving lives across 200 square miles in the Midlands and beyond. With 9.5 million trees already planted and national recognition as a pioneering regeneration model, the Forest is growing fast—in scope, scale and influence.
We are now looking for a Trustee to chair our Finance, Audit & Risk Committee, to help strengthen our financial strategy and risk oversight at the heart of our impact. You’ll play a key leadership role as we shape the next phase of the charity’s ambitions, through organisational growth, expanding commercial opportunities and greater influence.
Moira, Derbyshire (Hybrid)
Applications close: Sunday 17 August 2025 (midnight)
Unremunerated, with reasonable expenses paid
The successful candidate will be a qualified accountant and strategic thinker with:
- Significant experience in financial governance across public, private or charitable sectors.
- Understanding of risk and audit processes, ideally with non-executive leadership experience.
- The confidence to chair a committee and support a collaborative, high-performing Board.
- The ability to engage with Defra, the National Audit Office, auditors and other key stakeholders.
- A passion for sustainability and the long-term vision of the NFC.
This is a fantastic opportunity to help shape a national exemplar for landscape regeneration and play a key role in the growth of a new family of national forests.
The commitment
- Approx. 1 day/month, including 5 Board meetings (4 in person) and 4 Finance, Audit & Risk Committee meetings annually (in person / virtual). Trustees are not expected to live locally, provided they can attend in-person meetings.
- A 3-year term, renewable for a further 3 years.
Why now?
This is a pivotal time for our client. The government has backed the creation of three new national forests following our success. As we lead this next chapter—expanding woodland cover, inspiring new partnerships, and delivering lasting environmental change—we need strong governance and visionary trustees to support our journey.
How to Apply:
Applications should be made via the Prospectus website - please view the role on the site by clicking 'Redirect to recruiter'.
Recruitment Timetable
Deadline for applications: Midnight, Sunday 17 August 2025
Interviews with Prospectus via Teams: w/c 1 September 2025
Interviews in-person with our client: w/c 22 September 2025
