At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Trading Board to oversee governance and strategic direction for St Christopher’s Trading Company.
- Company: Be part of a renowned hospice movement with a legacy of care and innovation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in governance and strategy while supporting charitable work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by maximising profits to fund vital hospice services.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial or charity retail at a strategic level is essential.
- Other info: Voluntary role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
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) w.jukes@stchristophers.org.uk or telephone 020 8768 4502.
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 Co-opted Finance, Audit & Risk Board subcommittee member 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 Co-opted Finance, Audit & Risk Board subcommittee member
✨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 like the NED role at St Christopher’s. You never know who might have the inside scoop or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Do your homework! Familiarise yourself with St Christopher’s Trading Company and its mission. Understanding their goals will help you articulate how your skills can contribute to their success during interviews. Plus, it shows genuine interest!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of a non-executive director. Be ready to discuss your strategic insights and how you can help drive the company forward. Practice makes perfect!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure to include a killer cover letter that highlights your passion for the role and what you can bring to the table. We’re excited to see what you’ve got!
We think you need these skills to ace St Christopher’s Co-opted Finance, Audit & Risk Board subcommittee member
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 Board and how your values align with our mission.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. Highlight your relevant experience in commercial or charity retail, and explain how your skills can help us achieve our goals.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on St Christopher’s Trading Company and its mission. Understand their commercial activities, especially the retail side, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about their future plans for retail innovation or how they measure success in their shops. It demonstrates your strategic thinking and commitment to contributing positively to the board.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles that highlight your skills in governance, financial oversight, or risk management. Tailor your stories to reflect how they can benefit St Christopher’s Trading Company, making it clear why you’re the right fit.
✨Emphasise Integrity and Collaboration
Since this role requires a high standard of integrity and teamwork, be prepared to discuss how you’ve navigated conflicts of interest or worked collaboratively in previous positions. Highlighting these qualities will reassure them of your suitability for the board.