Trustee with HR Experience

upReach is an award-winning social mobility charity, driven by a vision of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential regardless of social background. Since 2012, upReach has supported thousands of undergraduates from lower socio-economic backgrounds to access and sustain top graduate jobs. Our unique one-to-one support model means every undergraduate receives sustained, tailored support from a specific member of our team.

upReach are looking for a trustee with HR experience and a passion for social mobility to join our Trustee Board. Having seen significant growth over the last 3 years, we are looking for someone passionate about social mobility who has the HR experience to ensure the highest standard of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward and development.  

The Trustee Board:

• The Trustee Board consists of eleven trustees including the Chair and three Alumni Trustees, who were formerly upReach Associates. 

• Trustee Board meetings take place four times per year, in-person in Central London, with the option to join remotely. All regular governance activities are scheduled in advance and outside of working hours. 

• The initial term for the Trustee position is three years, with the opportunity for a second three year term after that

• An Annual Strategy Day between the Trustees and upReach Senior Leadership Team is typically scheduled to take place on a weekend day in July. 

• Board Papers are sent out two weeks in advance. 

• Trustees are invited and encouraged to attend upReach delivery and fundraising events, such as Employer Insight Days, and the Student Social Mobility Awards.

The duties of the HR Trustee:

• Attend and contribute to trustee meetings.

• Support upReach’s People & Culture Team in developing HR policies and procedures, advising on good practice in people and HR matters.

• Apply your knowledge and experience to help the Trustees make decisions that ensure HR activities and interventions are linked to the charity’s objectives.

• As required, to support the upReach Senior Leadership Team to review HR management arrangements and provide guidance on HR strategy and short and long-term direction.

• Work collaboratively with fellow trustees and leverage skills to mentor Alumni Trustees. 

• Support the Chair of the Board in trustee recruitment and related processes and procedures.

• Be an active ambassador for upReach within the HR community.

Person Specification

Essential

• Passion for social mobility, evidenced through lived experience, personal background, or professional activities

• A substantial background as a senior HR professional, with a proven track record of success at an operational and strategic level.

• Thorough understanding of HR policy and practice.

• Good judgement, communication and interpersonal skills.

• Highly motivated, enthusiastic and a can-do attitude.

Desirable

• An understanding of the UK charity sector and HR practices within this context