Citizens Advice West Berkshire is a trusted local charity providing free, independent and confidential advice at times when it matters most. Our services deliver significant social and economic value to the community, helping people navigate issues such as debt, housing, employment, benefits and family matters at moments of real pressure. We also contribute to research and campaigns that seek to influence policy-makers.
In, we:
* Supported 2,287 clients with 13,927 issues
* Helped clients secure £767k in benefits
* Delivered significant economic and social value to the community
Demand for our services continues to grow; in we are on track to serve 2,700 clients. The charity is entering a new phase focused on financial sustainability, strategic fundraising and careful expansion of our service offering. Strong governance and leadership will be central to achieving this.
We are now seeking a new Trustee, with the intention that the successful candidate will transition into the role of Chair of the Board following an initial period of induction and handover. Our current Chair will step down later this year and is committed to ensuring a smooth handover, aiming for completion by July 2026.
The opportunity
This is an opportunity to join a well-established local charity with a committed Board, an experienced Chief Officer, and a strong community reputation. As a Trustee, you will contribute to strategic oversight and governance. As Chair, you will play a leading role in shaping the charity's future, particularly in strengthening relationships with funders and key local stakeholders, and diversifying our funding base.
Why join us?
As Trustee and Chair, you will have the opportunity to use and further develop your leadership and strategic skills in a role with clear social purpose and local impact, working alongside a committed team. The planned transition and support from the current Chair offer a strong platform for someone stepping into a Chair role for the first time, while also providing a rewarding role for those with prior Chair experience.
The role
As a Trustee, you will:
* Contribute to setting the charity's strategic direction and priorities
* Ensure good governance, financial stewardship and compliance
* Work collaboratively with fellow trustees and the Chief Officer
* Act in the best interests of the charity and the people we support
As Chair, you will additionally:
* Lead and facilitate effective Board meetings
* Maintain our strong, inclusive and well-functioning trustee team
* Support, challenge and appraise the Chief Officer, while maintaining a clear distinction between governance and management
* Provide strategic leadership on funding sustainability, including supporting the organisation's approach to fundraising and funder relationships
* Act as an ambassador for the charity with funders, partners, local stakeholders and decision-makers, helping to build confidence in our work and influence where appropriate
* Ensure the Board remains focused on impact, risk, sustainability and long-term value for the community
We are looking for someone who:
* Brings sound judgement, integrity and a collaborative leadership style
* Can think strategically and see the bigger picture
* Has the confidence and judgement to steer the organisation through a period of change and growth
* Is comfortable supporting and constructively challenging senior leaders
* Shares our commitment to independence, inclusion and community impact
Prior Trustee or Chair experience is welcome but not essential. More important is your ability to lead well, work thoughtfully with others, and uphold high standards of governance.
Experience in one or more of the following areas, although not essential, would be particularly valuable:
* Strategic fundraising or income diversification
* Working with grant-makers, commissioners or institutional funders
* Engagement with local authorities, public bodies or elected representatives
Time commitment and terms
* Typically 6 Board meetings per year, plus preparation
* Committee meetings as necessary
* Additional time as Chair, averaging 1–2 days per month
* This is a voluntary role; reasonable expenses are reimbursed
* Appointment is for a fixed term of three years initially, with renewal by agreement
We are keen to build a Board that reflects the demographics of the communities that we serve and warmly encourage applications from people from all backgrounds.
Next steps
We welcome informal conversations before applying. To express interest or request further information, please contact us at
Job Type: Volunteer
Pay: £1.00 per year
Benefits:
* Paid volunteer time
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Newbury RG14 1BA