Volunteer Trustees for a UK based water hygiene and sanitation charity working in Africa | Village Water

Village Water need new trustees particularly ones with a background in one of Finance, Safeguarding, Law, Fundraising or Development Management Based in the UK, We support access to safe water hygiene and sanitation in Africa

What difference will you make?

Village Water has an impressive track record of implementing successful programmes and helped over 1.8 Million people so far. Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Village Water achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable Village Water to grow and thrive. We need a a balance of skills on our board and we particularly wish to strengthen our skills in Financial Management, Safeguarding, Law, Fundraising and Development Management

What are we looking for?

This is an opportunity to work with a diverse and motivated team brought together by a shared interest in this vital cause. You will have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on work in Zambia and Mozambique, support local partners with their Board development, model what genuine collaborative working looks like and learn new skills in providing oversight of finance and risk, strategic planning and mentoring employees.  You should be self-motivated and have good team working and communication skills. You should have an interest in developing economies and a passion for helping those in poverty. You will have skills or experience either as a trustee or volunteer for a small charity or a management role in any organisation. We are however open to people who might not normally consider trusteeship – age is not a barrier and we are concerned to increase our diversity. So we will also look or for those with the clear potential to develop skills and experience. Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals. Duties Support and provide advice on Village Water’s purpose, vision, goals and activities. Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation. Oversee our financial plans and budgets, monitor, and evaluate progress. Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation. Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively. Review and approve financial statements. Provide support and challenge our CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs. Keep abreast of changes in our operating environment. Contribute to regular reviews of our own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions. Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Village Water’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests. Contribute to the broader promotion of our objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts. The role is not remunerated but all expenses are paid. We are conscious of both trustees’ and employees’ work / life commitments and try hard to ensure meetings meet everyone’s needs.

What will you be doing?

With two recent retirements, we want new trustees to bring fresh ideas and energy to build greater momentum. We particularly need people with skills and experience in one of the following areas Finance, Safeguarding, Law, Fundraising or Development Management We strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are underrepresented in charity governance. You don’t need previous board experience - if you have one or more of the skills we have listed and are enthusiastic, and want to contribute, we’d love to hear from you. You should have Willingness and ability to understand and accept responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation. Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member. Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion. A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Enthusiasm for our vision and mission. Our trustees are based across the UK. We also welcome applications from candidates in other countries, especially those with connections to or knowledge of the regions we work in. In UK we have a team of up to ten employees who raise funds and ensure appropriate spending through our partner organisations who implement in Zambia and Mozambique. We have a small but committed and constructive Board of volunteer trustees with low turnover. The Board's major challenge is to address the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all. We used to provide water hygiene and sanitation in individual villages, but now we must work more collaboratively with government and all interested charities and actors in a district to ensure everyone's needs are met. As a trustee, you will scrutinise the work of the charity and support our team with advice in areas of your expertise.   You will commit to attend the 4 annual meetings (3 are online of 2 hrs; 1 full day meeting in UK every year), take an active part in one of the permanent committees (eg. the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee) and other support roles as required. This may involve perhaps 1-2 hrs per week reading correspondence, buddying staff members approving finance etc