At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Board to guide and support St Christopher’s Trading Company in its mission.
- Company: Be part of a pioneering hospice movement with a rich history since 1967.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in governance and strategic direction while supporting charitable work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by contributing to a charity that impacts thousands each year.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial or charity retail at a strategic level is essential.
- Other info: Voluntary role with opportunities for personal growth and networking.
St Christopher’s Trading Company is looking for a new non-executive director (NED) to join its Board. Someone committed and enthusiastic, who will further strengthen our Trading Company and help us achieve the next phase of our planned development. St Christopher’s Trading Company’s objective is to maximise profit from commercial activities, which is then used to fund charitable work carried out by St Christopher’s Hospice. The commercial activities include the operation of 23 St Christopher’s shops across South-East London, with ambitions to explore other non-charitable income generation opportunities.
Founded in 1967 by Dame Cicely Saunders, St Christopher’s Hospice is the driving force behind the modern hospice movement. It not only provides care and support for almost 7,000 people a year across the London boroughs of Lewisham, Southwark, Lambeth, Croydon and Bromley, but also has a national and international reputation as a centre for learning and research in end-of-life care.
About you
We are specifically seeking someone with professional knowledge, experience and skills in one or more of the following areas:
- Senior commercial or charity retail innovation and entrepreneurship relevant experience in retail or commercial environments at a strategic level.
About the role
The non-executive director will be a company director of St Christopher’s (Trading) Ltd, and along with other members of the Trading Board, will be responsible for good governance, strategic direction and financial oversight of the Trading Company as well as being legally responsible for the running of the company and making sure information is sent to Companies House on time.
Responsibilities
- Bring an independent perspective to the Trading Board.
- Review papers, attend meetings, contribute to debates providing constructive challenge when appropriate.
- Complete actions and offer support to develop proposals on strategy.
- Scrutinise the performance and progress of agreed goals and objectives and monitor the reporting of performance.
- Ensure the integrity of financial information and that financial controls and systems of risk management are robust and defensible.
- Devote time to developing and refreshing your knowledge and skills and be aware of the work of St Christopher’s Hospice.
- Uphold the highest standards of integrity, openness, diplomacy, tact and inclusiveness.
- Maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive information and the business of the Committee.
- Exercise independent judgment, particularly avoiding any personal conflict of interest and ensuring that all relevant business, professional, and other interests are declared.
- Understand and respect the relative roles and views of other St Christopher’s Trading Directors, Non-Executive Directors, the Trading Senior Leadership Team and the Executive.
- Comply with the Trustee, Co-Opted Sub Committee member & Non Executive Director Code of Conduct expectations.
Time commitment
- Attend a minimum of four meetings per year and meeting preparation time. Meetings are usually held in person at our Sydenham site during office hours.
- An annual Trading Board Awayday.
- Undertake St Christopher's induction and mandatory training requirement.
- There is an expectation that Non-Executive Directors will visit some of our shops each year.
- Non-Executive Directors have an annual review meeting with the Chair of St Christopher’s Trading Board.
Period of appointment
Initial period of two years; renewable by mutual consent.
Important Information
We encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds, if you require any reasonable adjustments as part of the application process, please inform us along with your application. The role of a Non-Executive Director of St Christopher’s Trading is voluntary and Non-Executive Directors do not receive any remuneration for their services. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred while carrying out the role will be reimbursed in accordance with the trustees’ expenses policy. You must be 18 years old or over. This role will require the following pre-engagement checks: an enhanced DBS check and two references.
Contact
For more information, please contact Wendy Jukes (Corporate Administration Manager).
Application
To apply please click this link to upload your CV and include a covering letter telling us why you are interested and what skills you can bring to the St Christopher’s Trading Board.
Application details
- Closing date: 2nd February 2026 at 5pm.
- Confirmation of interviews: no later than 9th February 2026.
- Interview date: 12th February 2026.
St Christopher\'s Trading Company Non-Executive Director in London employer: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
Contact Detail:
Business & Human Rights Resource Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land St Christopher\'s Trading Company Non-Executive Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity and retail sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, and who knows? They might just have a lead or two that could land you that NED role.
✨Tip Number 2
Do your homework on St Christopher’s Trading Company. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and recent developments. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews by thinking about how your skills align with their needs. Be ready to discuss your experience in commercial environments and how you can bring an independent perspective to the Trading Board.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at St Christopher’s Trading Company.
We think you need these skills to ace St Christopher\'s Trading Company Non-Executive Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about joining St Christopher’s Trading Company and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in commercial or charity retail. We’re looking for specific skills that align with our goals, so don’t hold back on showcasing them!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to follow our process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the mission and values of St Christopher’s Trading Company. Familiarise yourself with their commercial activities and how they support the hospice's charitable work. This will show your genuine interest and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your professional knowledge and experience in retail or charity sectors. Think of specific examples where you've driven innovation or strategic growth, as this is crucial for a non-executive director role. Tailor your stories to highlight how they align with the company’s goals.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the Trading Board's current challenges and future plans. This not only demonstrates your strategic thinking but also shows that you’re serious about contributing to their success.
✨Emphasise Integrity and Governance
As a potential NED, it’s vital to convey your understanding of good governance and financial oversight. Be ready to discuss how you would uphold integrity and transparency within the board, ensuring robust risk management and compliance with regulations.