Trustee Volunteer Roles

Our partners vision is for a housing system that improves people’s quality of life, both in their homes and neighbourhoods, by instigating practical projects to support more long-term thinking in industry and government.

The role of the Trustees is to set the organisation’s strategic direction, monitor the delivery of its objectives, and uphold its values and governance. The board will also guide, advise and support the Chair, who leads the delivery team towards achieving their vision and purpose.

For this role, they are specifically looking for someone with a finance background and existing or previous experience in charity finance and governance to work with existing trustees to oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and legal obligations.

The Board meets formally four to six times per year, mostly online with one in-person meeting annually in central London. In addition, you will be expected to join the Finance, Governance and Risk sub-committee.

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For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner challenges poverty and inequality caused by unjust debt, bringing people on the frontline of economic injustice together to lead campaigns and win systemic change to tackle the household debt crisis.

They are seeking a new Treasurer to support their Board of Trustees in meeting their financial obligations. Specific responsibilities include overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements and advising on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans.

Experience of being a Treasurer previously is not essential. They are looking for someone who has skills in financial management with a commitment to the vision, mission and values of the organisation.

Board members are expected to attend three board meetings a year in February, June and October. The Treasurer also chairs the Finance and Resources Committee which meets four times a year.

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For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner works on the front line with families in need, with a vision of a world where children everywhere have access to the support they need to survive and thrive, achieved through research, campaigning and humanitarian responses.

They are seeking a Treasurer with experience of working with not for profits in setting strategic financial direction. You would be joining the board at an exciting time, as they implement their new strategy, build on their campaigns and broaden their advocacy to mobilise greater support and achieve change.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, the responsibility of the Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the organisation has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting.

This is a substantial and responsible role, and would suit someone able to commit about 18-20 hours three times a year. Board and committee meetings are held three times a year (on Zoom), and there may be ad hoc meetings between these as well as an expectation that support and guidance will be provided to the CEO and other staff on an ongoing basis.

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For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website

The BGF Foundation is looking for up to three new trustees to support our ambitious grant-making plans.

Our purpose is to support young people throughout the UK. Launched in 2022, the BGF Foundation is an independent charitable foundation. It is supported by cornerstone funding from BGF, an investment company that provides growth capital for small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland.

We harness the financial resources, leadership and expertise of BGF, its portfolio companies and talent network – collectively one of the UK’s largest and most active entrepreneurial networks. The Foundation has ambassadors in every region who work with us to identify local charities, coordinate pro bono support and build long-term partnerships with them.

To date we have provided multi-year grants to growing charities that support young people: MyBnk, Leadership Through Sport and Business and Social Enterprise Academy. We have also supported a number of charities with smaller individual grants.

We have undergone a strategic review and our focus will now be on open funding rounds for ambitious youth charities who are ready to scale their impact. We focus on areas where our funding, skills, networks and knowledge can make the most impact. These are enterprise, education, employment, mental health and physical wellbeing.

This is a pivotal time for the Foundation, and key to our future success will be up to three new trustees that can broaden our diversity and add to the skills and perspectives of the Board to support this new strategic approach.

We are especially interested in those with expertise in the charity sector (grant-making, strategy and governance), supporting growing charities, or working with young people. 

Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary.

Trustees will be appointed for a term of three years.

To apply, please submit a CV and short letter outlining your motivation for applying through our website.

Deadine for applications is 5pm on 23 May.
 

BGF is an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, age, nationality or socio-economic background. As part of the application process, you will be asked to provide personal information related to diversity and inclusiveness. The information you provide is kept confidential and will not be used to evaluate your candidacy. We collect this data to help us analyse our recruitment processes and implement the necessary interventions that promote greater equity, diversity, and inclusiveness.

Cycle Sisters is an award-winning charity which inspires and enables Muslim women and girls to change their lives through cycling.  We're looking for a Business Development Trustee who can provide leadership to Cycle Sisters on growing a charity/third sector organisation.   This individual will play an entrepreurial role, supporting the CEO in scoping out new opportunities and enabling Cycle Sisters to generate income from diverse sources.

Key responsibilities: 

• Provide leadership and new ideas on areas of business development for Cycle Sisters such as: 

  • corporate sponsorship and partnerships

  • service delivery and earned income

  • membership scheme 

  • high net-worth donors 

  • public sector commissioning

  • digital fundraising

• Work with the CEO to identify new opportunities and develop strategies and action plans for identified areas of income generation.   Provide ongoing support to the CEO for the development of these income streams.

• Support the CEO to develop the “business case‟ and pitch for companies, businesses and other bodies to partner with and fund Cycle Sisters

• Network on behalf of Cycle Sisters and develop contacts with businesses, companies and other relevant bodies to assist with income generation 

Trustee statutory duties: 

Trustee statutory duties 

• To ensure the organisation complies with its governing document

• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.

• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives - the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objectives, no matter how 'charitable' and 'worthwhile' those activities are.

• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. 

• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation. 

• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation. 

• To protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation's funds. 

Person specification: 

Specific to the role: 

• Experience at a senior level in any of the following areas: corporate social responsibility, corporate partnerships and sponsorship, business development, earned income, enterprise, high net-worth donors, bid development, membership schemes, digital fundraising 

• High level knowledge and contacts within the corporate sector 

• Awareness of market trends and competitors 

• Excellent networking, influencing and communication skills

• Understanding of Islamic values and ethics, and Muslim communities’ sensitivities which could impact potential partnerships and funding 

• Understanding of the challenges facing small to medium UK charities in generating sustainable income

• Lived experience 

• Ability and commitment to contribute approximately 4-6 hours per month for this role (in addition to board meetings) 

General Trustee role

• Commitment to and understanding of Cycle Sisters’ aims and values

• Independent judgement, strategic vision and ability to challenge constructively as well as working collaboratively as part of a team 

• Knowledge of voluntary sector and charity governance 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Availability to attend online board meetings 3-4 times per year 

• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team with excellent communication skills 

• Ability to organise time and work to deadlines.

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion 

• Understanding of UK Muslim communities including key organisations, institutions and individuals (desirable)

• Knowledge of the main developments and initiatives within the UK’s cycling scene (desirable) 

• Lived experience of barriers to cycling experienced by Muslim women and a passion for cycling, active travel or sport in general (desirable) 

Spark! are a growing youth employment charity and are seeking to strengthen our Board through the appointment of 5 new trustees with a passion for supporting young people in to pathways towards meaningful and sustained employment and rewarding careers.

We are particularly looking for trustees who can demonstrate skills or experience in one or more of the following areas to enhance our Governance.

• Finance and accounting
• Local authority
• Education sector
• HR and training
• Central Government and campaigning

We are also seeking Young Trustees (under 25 years old) to represent youth voice on our Board. Ideally this will be someone with relevant lived experience and/or someone who has participated in Spark! programmes.

We also welcome candidates with links to our priority areas of Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon and Hounslow, and from those with backgrounds that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

As the Chair you should take control of meetings, ensuring that everyone who wishes to has a reasonable chance to speak and take part. The Chair should ensure any reasonable adjustments are made for Trustees with learning disabilities or other disabilities. You should be able to listen to and understand a wide range of views, present information clearly and concisely and get clarification of relevant points, thus enabling the board to make effective decisions. The board must demonstrate its leadership of the organisation. It is the chair's role to enable the board to do that.

Personal skills and qualities

● leadership skills

● experience in chairing meetings and committee work

● facilitation skills

● tact and diplomacy

● excellent communication and interpersonal skills

● impartiality, fairness, and the ability to respect confidences

● Knowledge or experience of learning disability, including the issues that impact on the lives of people with learning disabilities

● Good knowledge of the third sector

 It is desirable for the chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by Speak Out and a commitment to keeping ahead of the changes in the organisation that take place.

Trustees play a vital role in making sure that Candlelighters achieves its core purpose by overseeing the overall management and administration of the charity. Candlelighters has recently been shortlisted for a Charity Governance Award

Location: Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD 

Time commitment: Trustee meetings are held quarterly in the evening (either in person or via Teams), with additional time required for preparation. We have an annual Hearts & Minds Workshop which is usually a full day in November. There are also opportunities to join sub-committees if you wish.

Trustee Board

The Trustee Board is made up of parents, medical staff and business individuals; each one bringing their own unique skills. We are now recruiting a new Independent Trustee to join the Board

It is not necessary to have previous board/trustee experience as training will be provided. 

We welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds.  We particularly want to recruit more women, young people and candidates from ethnic communities to increase the diversity across the board. 

We are looking for skills and experience in one or more of the following: 

• Fundraising strategy and performance 
• Business Development 
• Law/Legal 
• Health and Safety 

The Statutory Duties of a Trustee

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations 
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document 
• To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects: the organisation must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are 
• To contribute actively to the Board’s role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets 
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation 
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation 
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation 
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds. 

Other Duties

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve: 

• Scrutinising board papers.
• Leading discussions.
• Focusing on key issues.
• Providing guidance on new initiatives.
• Other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.
• Willingness and approachability to deal with enquiries from staff or trustees.
• Ability to make recommendations based on sound advice. 

The role will be subject to a DBS check and a ‘Fit and Proper’ person’s declaration will be required. 

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.

What will you be doing?

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. 

What are we looking for?

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. 

Before you 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.

The Alice Ruggles Trust was established in 2017 after the death of Alice following a tragic stalking case perpetrated by her ex-boyfriend.  The Alice Ruggles Trust is a charity that educates young people under 25 about stalking; it is our mission to foster generations of young people who understand stalking, the potential risks of stalking, and what they can do about it. 

We’re looking for a skilled volunteer who can contribute to the Board, as well as provide strategic and operational fundraising advice and guidance. 

As a Trustee with fundraising expertise, you will work with fellow Trustees and staff to advise on the financial stability of the organisation. 

The role holder will be responsible for: 

• Working with the Board of Trustees and the Strategy and Development Manager to develop the overall governance of the charity’s fundraising operations. 

• Contributing to a fundraising strategy that will develop the breadth of fundraising activity, including assessing the risk of new fundraising directions. 

• Supporting the Engagement Officer to develop and deliver robust systems, policy, and procedures for managing donations and supporter information. 

• Providing expertise in fundraising law and best practice, thus ensuring the Board understands and fulfils its responsibilities in relation to generating income. 

What we are looking for: 

• Commitment to the Alice Ruggles Trust’s aims and objectives 

• Experience in fundraising 

• A strategic thinker who can contribute to the fundraising goals of the Trust 

• A good communicator who can act as an ambassador for the Alice Ruggles Trust 

• An active and engaged member of the Board of Trustees who can fulfil the role with integrity

General requirements for Trustees 

• Trustees have responsibility for the governance and strategic performance of the charity

• Our Trustees must have a real interest in and commitment to young people at risk of stalking 

• We expect all our Trustees to be active and engaged and to be prepared to put forward their views, always carefully considering those of others. We recognise that different people provide their input and come to decisions in different ways, and we try to bring out the best in everyone with this in mind.

• Our Trustees must fulfil their role with the utmost integrity. Enthusiasm and a strong work ethic are also essential.

• Previous experience of being a Trustee is not necessary. Training and support can be provided. 

The Alternatives to Violence Project is a network of skilled volunteers who run workshops for anyone who wants to find ways of resolving conflict without resorting to violence. We work in the community and in prisons.

What will you be doing?

We are currently seeking an individual who will have commitment to AVPB organisation and its objectives to join us as Company Secretary.

What the Company secretary role entails: 

- The company secretary’s role is generally to make sure the charity follows company law.

- Company secretary may also produce legal documents for the charity as authorised by the board.

- Company secretary will take on a number of administrative duties to support the board – one of the most important being to take minutes of board meetings. Another one is to ensure that company records with Charity Commission and Companies House are up to date and accurate. 

What are we looking for?

Experience and expertise required:

· Senior leadership.

· Trustee experience or the ability to gain an understanding of the relevant charity and company regulations.

· An understanding of the charitable and voluntary sector and its governance will be an advantage.

Skills we are looking for:

· An understanding and acceptance of legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a Trustee.

· Strategic vision.

· Organised and methodical.

· An ability to think creatively with good, independent judgement.

· An ability to work effectively as a member of a team yet be willing to speak your mind.

· A commitment to abide by the code of conduct.

What difference will you make?

The Board of Trustees is ultimately responsible for directing the affairs of AVP Britain, and ensuring that it is solvent, well-run, and meeting the needs for which it has been set up. The Board is also responsible for the organisation’s governance, values, and overall strategy, and for meeting the organisation’s statutory obligations. The Terms of Reference of the Board of Trustees sets out its responsibilities in more detail. The trustees delegate responsibility for managing and developing the work programme, in accordance with the trustees strategy, to other national and regional committees and staff.

The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) serves people who want to handle conflict well without using or suffering violence, whether physical or psychological. Our trained volunteer facilitators deliver intensive, low-cost, conflict-resolution skills workshops in the community, in prisons and in other settings. We reach diverse communities, attracting people from across a wide spectrum of ages, ethnic backgrounds and socio-economic backgrounds.

Before you apply

Please submit your CV along with a short cover letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board.

Please note, whilst the role has been advertised as a Trustee position, there is also the option to join as an Officer. Please state in your covering letter if this would be of interest to you.

We are looking for a Trustee who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders.

Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do. However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.

Key Attributes We Seek in Trustees:

· Commitment to the YSS Mission: A keen belief in YSS's mission of fostering independence and empowerment is vital. We believe our Trustees should be driven by a passion for effecting positive change in people's lives.

· Integrity and Ethical Conduct: Upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability is non-negotiable. Trustees must embody honesty and ethical behaviour in all endeavours.

· Strategic Thinking: Effective trustees possess strategic foresight and the ability to analyse complex issues. They contribute valuable insights to shape YSS's long-term direction and goals.

· Leadership Skills: Demonstrating strong leadership qualities is essential. Trustees should inspire others, foster collaboration, and proactively identify opportunities and challenges.

· Financial Awareness: Understanding financial matters is crucial for fulfilling a Trustee’s financial responsibilities to the organisation. Trustees should actively review financial reports and plans to ensure YSS's financial health.

· Diversity and Inclusion: YSS serves diverse communities, and we value diversity in our Trustees. Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion is paramount.

· Effective Communication: Trustees should possess strong communication skills, articulating ideas clearly and engaging with stakeholders effectively.

· Collaborative Approach: Operating through collaboration is a hallmark of YSS. Trustees should be team players, working collaboratively towards common goals.

· Adaptability and Resilience: Trustees should be adaptable and resilient in navigating change and uncertainty while staying focused on the organization's mission.

· Commitment and Availability: Serving as a trustee requires dedication of time and energy. Trustees must commit to attending meetings, participating in discussions, and engaging in relevant activities.

Principal responsibilities

· Provide strategic direction.

· Monitor performance.

· Ensure compliance.

· Safeguard reputation and values.

· Ensure financial viability.

· Contribute to MD's appointment, support, and performance monitoring.

· Participate in appraisal, recruitment, and disciplinary panels.

Desirable Areas of Skills and Experience:

· ICT and digital transformation

· Legal

· Safeguarding

· Criminal Justice

· Social Care or Social Enterprise

· Accountancy and financial planning/reporting

· Organizational Management

· Human Resources

· Community Development

· Balancing conflicting views sensitively

· Networking and relationship-building

· Commitment to the charity's vision and values

· Strong leadership with credibility and enthusiasm

· Effective decision-making and independent judgment

Summary of the Role: As a Trustee, you'll be responsible for setting strategic aims, objectives, and direction. You'll ensure YSS achieves its objectives, represents stakeholders' interests, and act as an ambassador for the charity.

Structure, Governance, and Management: YSS is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. The Board delegates responsibility for day-to-day management to the Managing Director, aided by the Senior Management and Leadership Team.

Strategy: YSS has a broad 3-year strategy linked to our organizational Theory of Change. Bi-annual strategic reviews are undertaken by the Trustees and Senior Management Team.

Priorities for 2024-2025:

· Implementation of impact measurement metrics

· Creation of staff and service user forums

· Focus on income sustainability and relationships with local authorities and funders

· Further development around our social value strategy

Based in Portsmouth, The De Curci Trust has over 1700 students on roll across three schools. The Trust seeks a Trustee (Non-Executive Director) to join the Board who ideally has a professional background in:

· Education (school, college or university);

· Surveying / Construction; or

· Public Sector Management.

However, applications from candidates with different professional backgrounds are encouraged; we would particularly welcome applicants from an ethnic minority, as they are underrepresented within the Trust at this level.

Early applications are welcome prior to the closing date, please contact Danielle Skinner, Company Secretary and Governance Professional if you would like an informal discussion or interview at early stage.

In our new Chair, we are looking for someone with leadership experience and board level credentials who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders. Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do.

However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.

You will be a confident and positive leader and an ambassador on our behalf with the strategic acumen and emotional intelligence to promote our work and vision, and support our Managing Director, and our leadership team

Role Description

Objective

The Chair will hold the Board and Executive Team to account for YSS’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that each trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support, and, where appropriate, challenge the Managing Director and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of the charity to achieve agreed objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and the public face of YSS in partnership with the Managing Director.

Principal responsibilities

Strategic leadership

• Provide leadership to YSS and its Board, ensuring that the charity has maximum impact for its

service users.

• Support the Managing Director to lead and manage the organisation well, give regular feedback on performance and conduct an annual appraisal.

• Ensure that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of YSS.

• Ensure that the Board operates within its charitable objectives and provides a clear strategic direction for YSS.

• Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated opportunities and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and manage and mitigate the risks.

• Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of YSS (in combination with the lead finance Trustee), with systems in place to ensure.

Governance

• Ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for YSS and that the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities.

• Develop the knowledge and capability of the Board of Trustees.

• Encourage positive change, where appropriate address and resolve any conflicts within the Board.

• Ensure that the Board of Trustees is regularly refreshed, reflects the wider population and service users of YSS and incorporates the right balance of skills, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead YSS effectively.

• Work within any agreed policies adopted by YSS.

External Relations

• Act as an ambassador for YSS objectives and mission.

• Act as a spokesperson for YSS when appropriate.

• Represent YSS at external functions, meetings, and events (taking into account time commitments outside of the role).

Relationship with the Managing Director and the wider management team

• To work in partnership and support the Managing Director to ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic direction.

• Support the Managing Director, whilst respecting the boundaries which exist between the two roles, ensuring regular contact in an open and supportive way with opportunity for professional development and external professional support when agreed.

Person Specification

In addition to the qualities required of a Trustee of YSS, the Chair must also meet the following requirements:

Personal Qualities

• Personal gravitas and clear leadership style to lead an ambitious charity and communicate a

sincere commitment to the mission and vision of YSS

• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in a

leading role

• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of YSS (particularly in the sectors and services that YSS cover).

• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment.

• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

Experience - all essential

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation

• Successful track record of achievement through their career

• Experience of or appreciation of charity governance (or wider governance) and Civil Society and current issues affecting it, and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees

• Experience of chairing meetings and events and representing organisations externally from public platforms and through effective stakeholder management

Knowledge and Skills - all essential

• Broad knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and current issues affecting it.

• Leadership skills, ability to bring people together.

• A level of financial management and charity finance understanding.

• Good understanding of governance issues (ideally in a charity setting).

Terms of Appointment

Remuneration

The role of Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable out of

pocket expenses can be claimed.

Location

YSS operates across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Warwickshire. Our offices are in Blackpole, Worcester.

Time commitment

Between 2 and 3 days per month. The YSS Board currently meet 6 times a year and holds 2 Audit & Risk committee meetings and up to 2 strategy planning days per year. The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Managing Director and may, subject to an individual’s time commitments, represent YSS at essential events. All board members are encouraged to attend YSS events, including visits from our charity Patron and are welcome to make occasional visits to projects to see first-hand the work of YSS, the people supported, staff and volunteers.

The charity’s Chair (and board members) will be elected for an initial term of one year, after which they may be eligible for re-appointment for additional three-year terms, for a maximum of 10-year term.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

YSS is committed to equality of opportunity, supports and encourages underrepresented groups,

and values diversity.

Applications

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Appointment is subject to eligibility in line with The Charity Commission criteria.

The School Library Association is a charity dedicated to supporting all who work within school libraries – primary, secondary and sixth form.

Our mission is to build a community to share best practice and to work towards all schools in the UK having their own (or shared) staffed library to help all children and young people build their literacy skills and fulfil their potential. 

We are looking to appoint an experienced Chair for our Board of Trustees. We particularly want to hear from candidates with charity, business or membership development experience as we look to strengthen our brand, our membership reach, and financial growth. 

Our Board currently has a mix of Trustees from business and the school library and educational sectors which helps to strengthen the range of skills and perspectives the SLA and its CEO can tap into. We have recently invested in a new Association Management system, members portal, website and back office system which will substantially improve our ability to personalise our offering to members and our potential reach to new members. 

Our Board meetings are mostly online, either in an evening or on a Saturday morning. There are two in person board meetings planned for this year, for which all expenses will be reimbursed

In advocacy terms, our involvement in the Great School Library campaign (our CEO is the joint chair) and Awards, has raised the profile of school libraries considerably in recent years and we wish to continue this journey in the coming years. 

The SLA has, over the last 5 years, made huge changes to its organisational and governance structure, Board strength, and employee skills base. Trustees joining us now will help to take us on the next stage of our exciting journey to reach more members and schools and help children achieve their full potential. 

Applications will be taken through our website, where you can also access the role description and person specification for each role.