Trustee

Person specification

• A commitment to Ashden and its mission.
• A finance, accounting or business background, preferably with experience in the not-for-profit sector.
• Experience and good understanding of the role of a trustee, including an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Experience of financial management, risk management, budgeting and strategic financial planning.
• Understanding of audit requirements and relevant regulatory compliance.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to:

− Prepare for and attend Board meetings (usually four times a year including an annual away day).
− Chair the Finance and Operations Committee (also usually four times a year).
− As appropriate, depending on where you are based: attend our annual Awards ceremony and some of our events through the year.
− Liaise with members of the Executive Management Team on specific areas in which you have specialist knowledge or contacts, including joining external meetings as appropriate.

• Good, independent judgement and a willingness to speak your mind in a constructive fashion.
• Willingness to work collaboratively to find solutions to such difficulties as may arise.
• A commitment to the Nolan principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

You may also have one or more of the following

• A good understanding of/strong interest in climate change and related matters, such as zero carbon energy, natural climate solutions or climate finance.
• Knowledge of UK debates relating to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and related issues such as the “just transition”, green investment and regulation.
• Knowledge of issues relating to equitable clean energy access or natural climate solutions in developing countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
• International development experience in the not-for-profit, social enterprise, governmental or donor community.
• Good understanding/experience of social change/innovation.
• Experience of developing and growing new businesses.
• Experience in finance and impact investing.
• Fundraising experience, contacts and networks.

Trustee Responsibilities (Including Treasurer)

Trustees will ensure the proper management of Ashden in accordance with its charitable objects and charity law, including by:

• Ensuring that Ashden is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit.
• Ensuring that Ashden complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Holding the CEO and executive team to account for Ashden’s performance, effectiveness, and the proper management of resources.
• Acting in Ashden’s best interests, including safeguarding the good name and values of Ashden.
• Acting with reasonable care and skill.
• Contributing to the development of Ashden’s strategies.

In addition to the above, each trustee will use their specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board reach sound decisions. Trustees may also help with external relations as appropriate, such as fundraising or speaking at events.

Treasurer-Specific Responsibilities

• Chairing the Finance and Operations Committee (a subcommittee of the board) in line with its terms of reference and delegated responsibilities. These include the scrutiny of financial and risk management by the executive team, and leading on the budget approval and audit process.
• Reporting the outcomes of Finance and Operations Committee meetings to the Board of Trustees.
• Making recommendations to the board on financial and risk management matters.
• Acting as the main point of contact between the executive team and trustees on financial matters.

Trustees serve for a term of three years which may be renewed a maximum of three times.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.