Co-opted member of the Risk and Audit Committee

Established in 1844, Central YMCA is the founding organisation of the global YMCA movement now present in over 120 countries. Central YMCA works at local, regional, and national levels, providing high-quality education, training, and qualifications. As one of the largest charity Independent Training Providers in the country and the holder of substantial contracts from the Department for Education and Department for Work and Pensions, Central YMCA provides education and opportunities for employment for young people and adults, irrespective of their background and experience. We work with some of the most socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, and we believe we can have the greatest impact for those falling through gaps in provision or struggling to engage with mainstream provision.

The sectors in which we work have been carefully selected to reflect the Charity’s commitment to supporting careers in areas that are essential for building strong communities. We deliver employability courses, qualifications, and apprenticeships in Health and Fitness, Health and Social Care, Early Years and Education, Horticulture, and Business Services. We work with key partners in each sector to promote our courses and amplify our reach. Some of our work is strategically based in socially and economically disadvantaged communities; supporting the vulnerable and those on low incomes, those who have low prior attainment and are facing personal challenges, alongside those needing support through life transitions.

About the role: We are currently seeking an individual to join Central YMCA’s Risk & Audit Committee. Co‑opted committee members do not have any of the legal responsibilities of a trustee and are a source of guidance and expertise for the Charity. The Risk & Audit Committee assists the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by reviewing and monitoring:

• The Charity's attitude to and appetite for risk
• The system of internal controls, risk management, and risk reporting
• Compliance with laws, funding rules, and regulatory codes of practice
• The internal and external audit activities of the Charity
• The accuracy and transparency of financial reporting

As an independent training provider in receipt of public funds, Central YMCA places particular emphasis on ensuring that all public funding is used in line with funding body requirements. The Committee provides independent advice to the Board of Trustees on the adequacy and effectiveness of governance, risk management (including business continuity), control systems, and assurance frameworks. It also supports the Board in meeting its statutory and regulatory responsibilities in the preparation of annual accounts.

About you: We are seeking an individual to provide independent advice and insight into the specific risks, governance issues, and compliance frameworks relevant to registered charities and government‑funded education and training delivery, particularly those applicable to Independent Training Providers (ITPs). We highly value diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and insights in our work. We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates whose professional and personal experiences, including lived experiences, will bring fresh understanding to the Committee.

Time commitment: This role involves attending quarterly online committee meetings. Preparatory materials are provided in advance, and typically, up to half a day of preparation ensures productive participation.

How to apply: To learn more about this role, including how to apply, please contact Naomi da Silva, Director of Governance and Risk on naomi.dasilva@ymca.co.uk.