Trustee

Summary

Trustees are vital to ensuring ESS Education and Support Services achieves its mission. They provide strategic oversight, guidance, and support to help the charity thrive while staying true to its core purpose.

Key Responsibilities

· Strategic Guidance: Advise on the charity’s purpose, vision, and activities, ensuring alignment with its mission.

· Policy & Strategy Approval: Approve strategies, policies, and monitor their implementation.

· Financial Oversight: Oversee budgets, financial plans, and ensure progress is tracked.

· Risk Management: Identify, monitor, and manage key risks effectively.

· Governance: Contribute to the review of governance practices and ensure compliance.

· CEO Support & Challenge: Guide and challenge the CEO to drive the charity’s objectives.

· Active Engagement: Attend Board meetings and contribute to discussions; may also engage in specific initiatives and fundraising.

· Promotion & Advocacy: Help promote the charity’s mission, using personal expertise and networks.

In a small charity, trustees may also take on additional responsibilities, such as scrutinising papers or leading specific projects.

Desired Skills & Qualities

· Commitment & Responsibility: Understand and accept trustee responsibilities, acting in the charity’s best interests.

· Strategic Thinking: Think creatively and independently, contributing to Board decisions.

· Communication Skills: Participate actively in discussions and decisions.

· Commitment to Diversity: Support equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the charity’s work.

· Passion for the Mission: Share enthusiasm for ESS Education and Support Services’ vision.

· Public Life Principles: Commit to selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

Terms of Appointment

· Term: 3 years, with the option to renew for up to 9 years.

· Voluntary Position: No salary, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed with Board approval.

· Time Commitment: 4-6 virtual Board meetings annually, plus attendance at promotional and fundraising events.

Application Process

Interested individuals should submit a CV and brief personal biography, outlining their relevant skills and reasons for applying. Applications will be reviewed by the Board.