Trustee (Various roles available)

About Waterwatch UK

Waterwatch UK is currently transitioning to become a charity, strengthening its mission to hold polluters accountable and empower communities to protect and improve water quality. We work to ensure transparency, drive policy change, and support public engagement in safeguarding our waterways.

Role Purpose

As a trustee, you will provide strategic oversight, ensure good governance, and help Waterwatch UK achieve its mission. Trustees collectively guide the organisation’s direction, legal compliance, financial health, and public impact.

Available Trustee Roles

We are recruiting trustees with expertise in the following areas. Candidates should specify in your application which role they are applying for.

Please note that the specific roles may be adjusted based on the applications we receive to ensure the best mix of skills and expertise on the board.

1. Chair of Trustees

• Leads the board, ensuring effective governance, decision-making, and strategic direction.
• Acts as a key ambassador for Waterwatch UK.
• Supports and guides the CEO.
• Chairs board meetings and ensures all trustees are engaged.

2. Treasurer

• Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Ensures compliance with charity financial regulations.
• Works with the CEO to develop sustainable funding strategies.

3. Secretary (Governance Trustee)

• Manages governance processes, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission requirements.
• Supports meeting administration, record-keeping, and reporting.
• Ensures policies and procedures are up to date.

4. Fundraising & Grants Trustee

• Develops and oversees fundraising strategies, including grant applications and donor engagement.
• Identifies new funding opportunities and partnerships.
• Advises on diversifying income sources.

5. Marketing & Communications Trustee

• Leads public engagement strategies, including branding, digital media, and PR.
• Supports outreach efforts to raise awareness and grow Waterwatch’s supporter base.
• Advises on website, social media, and campaign strategies.

6. Legal & Compliance Trustee

• Ensures Waterwatch UK operates within charity law and regulatory requirements.
• Provides legal guidance on governance, contracts, and policies.
• Advises on risk management.

7. Community Engagement & Partnerships Trustee

• Strengthens relationships with local communities, ensuring Waterwatch UK remains community-led.
• Develops partnerships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and campaign groups.
• Supports volunteer engagement.

8. Environmental & Policy Trustee

• Provides expertise on water pollution, environmental law, and policy advocacy.
• Helps shape Waterwatch UK’s campaigns and policy positions.
• Engages with policymakers and regulators to push for systemic change.

General Trustee Responsibilities

• Ensure Waterwatch UK operates in line with its charitable objectives and complies with relevant laws.
• Contribute to strategic planning, decision-making, and risk management.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring funds are well managed and aligned with charitable goals.
• Represent Waterwatch UK’s values, advocating for its mission and engaging with stakeholders.
• Participate in board meetings and relevant working groups or committees.

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who:

• Are committed to Waterwatch UK’s mission and values.
• Have expertise in at least one of the areas listed above.
• Can dedicate time and energy to board meetings and strategic work.
• Bring an independent perspective and constructive challenge.

Time Commitment

• Attend quarterly board meetings (in person or virtual).
• Participate in relevant working groups or committees.
• Support fundraising, advocacy, or governance efforts as needed.

Why Become a Trustee?

• Help shape the future of a newly forming charity tackling water pollution.
• Gain board-level experience and expand your professional network.
• Be part of a passionate and purpose-driven team.

How to Apply

Please include the trustee role you are applying for.

In your email, please include:

• A short expression of interest (1-2 pages) outlining:
  • The role you are applying for.
  • Your relevant experience and skills.
  • Why you want to support Waterwatch UK.
• Your CV
• LinkedIn profile (optional).

Currently, expenses are not covered, but the role should not incur any financial burden as it is remote. Once we secure funding, expenses will be reimbursed.

Deadline for applications: 17th April 2025 at 18:00