We’re always looking for passionate and dedicated volunteer Trustees to join The Earl of Southampton Trust, and help guide the important work of our charity.
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that the Trust achieves its core objective of the relief of financial hardship. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that the Trust has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are aligned. Just as importantly, they support and challenge each other to enable the Trust to grow and thrive.
Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group, and not as individuals.
Job Description:
Duties:
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Support and provide advice on the Trust’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
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Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their ongoing success
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Oversee financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
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Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
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Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
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Provide support and management of individual grant applications from third parties
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Keep abreast of changes in the Trust’s operating environment.
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Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect the Trust’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
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Contribute to the broader promotion of the Trust’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.
As a small charity, there will be sub-committees where the trustees should be actively involved beyond the monthly Board meetings. This will involve focusing on specific aspects of the charity such as Finance, Buildings & Maintenance and Communications.
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.
You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.
Personal skills and qualities
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Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
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Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
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Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
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A strong personal commitment to selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
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Enthusiasm for our vision and purpose.
Terms of appointment
Terms of office
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Trustees are appointed for a 4 year term of office, renewal for 4 further terms to a maximum of 16 years.
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This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
Time commitment
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Attending monthly Board and sub-committee meetings typically lasting around 2 hours. Currently meetings are held in the Village Hall and other local ad hoc sites.