We are looking for volunteers to become trustees of Quetzal. Being a trustee means you have one of the most important and exciting roles within a charity. With the CEO, you will set the direction of the organisation and are ultimately responsible for ensuring it achieves its aims.
Being a trustee is one of the most powerful ways in which you can contribute to a cause you really care about. As a trustee, you play an integral part in the good governance of a charity, not only ensuring that the organisation remains sustainable but ensuring that it adheres closely to its mission and works in the interests of its beneficiaries.
The strategic experience which can be gained through trusteeship can have an immediate and powerful impact upon your career and understanding how to adapt your professional knowledge to a charity is a good reminder of your own versatility, giving you confidence in your existing abilities whilst challenging you push the boundaries of your expertise.
What is the role of the Board of Trustees?
- Responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation
- Ensures that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, company law and other relevant legislation/regulations.
- Working in partnership with the CEO to support staff members and volunteers, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation.
- Engage in stimulating, well-rounded and carefully considered strategic decision-making to help the organisation develop and meet the needs of its service users.
What are the main duties of a Trustee?
- Assist in the formulation of strategic plans and regular review of long-term strategic aims of the charity.
- Assist in the development of organisational policies, procedures, defining of goals, targets and the evaluation of performance against agreed targets.
- Assist in maintaining the legal and financial integrity of the organisation and supporting the continuation of the project
- Maintain an oversight of any risk to reputation and/or financial standing of the organisation and protect and manage its property.
- Represent the organisation at appropriate events, meetings or functions
- Fostering relations with potential partners.
- Support the Chair in the review of any external complaints as defined by the organisation’s complaints procedure
Key Qualities of Trustees
- Commitment to Quetzal’s, aims and values.
- Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship (training provided)
- Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues.
- Balancing tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.
Time Commitment
The Board meets every two months on a Thursday at 6.30pm usually via zoom and trustees are asked to be available for the majority of these meetings. In addition to Board Meetings, other contact, usually electronic or by telephone, will also be necessary.
Interested?
Please email deborah@quetzal.org.uk for more details.
