At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our board to provide strategic guidance and ensure effective governance.
- Company: International Rescue Committee UK, dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities.
- Benefits: Comprehensive induction, training, and reimbursement for reasonable expenses.
- Other info: Opportunity to engage with global programmes and enhance your network.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of refugees and promote equality.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
We are seeking two new Trustees to lend skills and expertise to strengthen IRC UK’s board capability for the years ahead. These appointments will replace Trustees nearing the ends of their terms.
Trustee Duties
- Fulfil Trustees’ legal duties and act in accordance with the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee to ensure good governance.
- Lend your expertise: use your specific experience and skills to provide strategic advice and guidance to support the effective working of IRC UK.
- Provide strategic oversight: work with fellow Trustees and the IRC UK Senior Management Team to ensure strategic objectives are achieved and course‑corrected where required.
- Ensure sound governance: oversee regulatory compliance, risk oversight and organisational resilience.
- Contribute to Board and Committee effectiveness: prepare well for meetings and offer effective insight and challenge.
- Act as an ambassador: promote the organisation externally by attending and contributing to events, meetings with donors and supporters.
- Uphold our commitments: support safeguarding and equity, diversity and inclusion commitments, including engaging meaningfully with IRC clients in the UK and overseas.
Time Commitment
- Full Board: Prepare for, attend, and participate fully in at least three half‑day Board meetings per year (typically March, July and October), plus one development meeting in January. In‑person attendance at the London office is encouraged but not essential.
- Board Committee(s): Prepare for, attend, and participate fully in at least two committee meetings per year in one of the following committees – Audit & Governance, People & Culture, Safeguarding, or External Relations. Committee meetings typically last two hours.
- Programme visits: Attend an overseas programme visit (self‑funded, though IRC UK will reduce or remove financial barriers as required) or a visit to UK programmes each year, amounting to 8–10 days per year.
Trustees may serve up to two three‑year terms. A third term may be considered at the recommendation of the People & Culture Committee, subject to a maximum of two years. All Trustees must rotate off the board after eight years.
Person Specification
Essential experience
- Senior leadership experience within a complex international and matrix‑structured organisation (charity, NGO, public or private).
- Strong leadership skills and the ability to support and challenge executive leadership.
- Strong cross‑cultural awareness and a commitment to role‑modelling and advancing diversity, equality and inclusion.
- High standards of integrity and accountability.
- Ability to understand and interpret complex information concerning IRC UK’s financial position, risk and performance.
- Ability to work collaboratively with others.
- Interest and willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to successfully deliver this role.
Desirable experience
- Experience in or understanding of the international development or UK charity sector.
- Experience operating at a Board or equivalent strategic level.
- Strong networks and willingness to make connections that advance IRC UK’s charitable purpose, particularly in high‑value fundraising.
We are particularly interested to hear from candidates who can demonstrate any of the following:
- Strategic understanding of refugee issues in the UK, including asylum, resettlement and integration.
- Digital expertise and networks, including an understanding of the rapidly evolving technology landscape and networks across technology, social media and digital marketing.
- Philanthropy and partnerships experience, including strong connections across UK foundations, trusts and the wider philanthropic sector.
Upholding the IRC Way
All IRC UK Trustees must adhere to the IRC Way – the core values of Integrity, Service, Accountability and Equality – and ensure safeguarding and the wellbeing of clients are prioritised in all work.
Benefits
- A rigorous induction programme and training to ensure new Trustees understand their roles and responsibilities.
- Expenses: reasonable expenses are reimbursed in line with IRC UK’s Expenses Policy.
- Exposure to global and UK programmes to enhance understanding and representation of client interests.
Equal Opportunities
IRC UK is a committed equal‑opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all candidates, including under‑represented groups and those with lived or proximate experience of conflict or forced displacement. Reasonable adjustments are available for applicants with disabilities.
International Rescue Committee UK Trustees employer: International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee UK is an exceptional employer, offering Trustees the opportunity to contribute to meaningful governance and strategic oversight in a dynamic and impactful environment. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as a robust induction programme, IRC UK fosters a collaborative work culture that values integrity and accountability. Located in London, Trustees will engage with global programmes and have the chance to make significant contributions to humanitarian efforts while developing their leadership skills.
Contact Details:
International Rescue Committee Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land International Rescue Committee UK Trustees
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
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✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace International Rescue Committee UK Trustees
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like International Rescue Committee, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at International Rescue Committee.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Rescue Committee
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of International Rescue Committee and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
