At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board to help govern and develop a community-focused credit union.
- Company: Acorn Community Bank, a growing and ambitious not-for-profit financial cooperative.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, network with professionals, and contribute to a fairer financial system.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with opportunities for personal growth and leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community by tackling financial exclusion.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, community organisations, or the financial sector is preferred.
Acorn Community Bank is growing and ambitious and needs two new volunteer non‑executive Board members/company Directors:
- One with the ambition to become Chair of the Board.
- One to be Board/Company Secretary and Compliance Director.
What will you be doing?
Acorn Community Bank is a credit union. Credit Unions are not‑for‑profit financial cooperatives, regulated by the Bank of England, the Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). We serve the 40% (or more) of adults excluded from many conventional banking services in Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire & Berkshire. Any financial surplus we make is invested back into the business or paid back to members as dividends. We rely mainly on word‑of‑mouth referrals and work extensively with local councils and community organizations. We need to build on that goodwill systematically and grow faster.
Vacancy 1 – Future Chair of the Board
A new Director who, after a period of training and familiarisation, would like to take on the challenging role as Chair in 2027 when the existing chair plans to step down. This person should have extensive experience of chairing committees or perhaps of chairing a Board of Trustees in a charity. The Chair role also requires working in partnership with our paid Chief Executive, who attends all Board meetings and manages all other staff and operations.
Vacancy 2 – Board/Company Secretary and Compliance Director
Three roles in one: working with the Chair to arrange meetings and take minutes; working with the financial regulators to ensure our registrations and company/Board information are up‑to‑date; and working with the Board and CEO to ensure that we meet all legal company and regulator requirements.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for new Directors who are willing to play an active role in the governance and development of the credit union. The ideal candidate will have high motivation and a strong belief in the credit union and cooperative ethos; and should preferably have experience of working in local community organisations/charities or in the financial sector. We need someone who is interested in building a fairer financial system and helping overcome the challenges of financial exclusion.
Commitment and Responsibilities
The role of a director requires at least an hour or two per week, or as much time as you can commit. You will be expected to prepare for and attend a monthly board meeting (online, typically 2 hours on a Tuesday evening) and join an in‑person away day every six months. You will also join one of our three committees; which meet online quarterly. The role is non‑executive, unpaid and does not involve direct working on the operational side of our business. We do however expect our directors to become familiar with the business and the wider credit union world. It would suit someone who is already working but has spare time, or someone retiring or recently retired.
Equal Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity organisation, so potential volunteers from women and/or ethnic minorities would be especially welcome. You will need to live or work in our area of operations – the geographical counties of Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire & Berkshire.
Directors for a growing Credit Union - Volunteer in Swindon employer: Acorn Community Bank
Acorn Community Bank is an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. As a volunteer non-executive Board member, you will join a passionate team dedicated to promoting financial inclusion and supporting local residents. With opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, particularly for those aspiring to become Chair of the Board, Acorn offers a collaborative and supportive environment where your contributions can truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Directors for a growing Credit Union - Volunteer in Swindon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the community and let them know you're interested in joining Acorn Community Bank. Word-of-mouth is powerful, and you never know who might have a lead or insight into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Get familiar with the credit union world. Dive into resources about credit unions, their governance, and compliance requirements. This will not only boost your confidence but also show your commitment to the role when you chat with the board.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by thinking about how your experience aligns with the roles. Whether it's chairing committees or working with community organisations, be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills and passion for financial inclusion.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and serious about joining the team at Acorn Community Bank.
We think you need these skills to ace Directors for a growing Credit Union - Volunteer in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the credit union and cooperative ethos shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in the community and are motivated to help those facing financial exclusion.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, especially in governance, community organisations, or the financial sector. We’re looking for candidates who can bring their unique skills to the table, so don’t be shy about showcasing what you’ve done!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations. A well-structured application will definitely catch our eye!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to engage with our digital community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Community Bank
✨Know Your Credit Union Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand what a credit union is and how it operates. Familiarise yourself with Acorn Community Bank's mission and values, especially their commitment to serving those excluded from traditional banking. This knowledge will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
When discussing your background, focus on any experience you have in governance, community organisations, or the financial sector. If you've chaired committees or worked with local charities, share specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and commitment to community development.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Board's current challenges, future goals, and how you can contribute as a director. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your values and aspirations.
✨Show Your Commitment to Inclusion
Acorn Community Bank values diversity and inclusion, so be ready to discuss how you can help build a fairer financial system. Share any experiences or ideas you have about overcoming financial exclusion and supporting underrepresented communities, as this will resonate well with their ethos.
