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- Tasks: Join our board to shape the future of pharmacy and ensure good governance.
- Company: Be part of the Royal College of Pharmacy, a leading charity with over a century of history.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in strategic leadership and governance while making a real impact.
- Why this job: Help steer a transformative organisation and contribute to public benefit in healthcare.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience and expertise in charity finance are essential.
- Other info: Voluntary role with flexible meeting options and opportunities for personal growth.
We are looking for up to three talented people to bring wider expertise to our board and complement the skills of our elected pharmacists and the Chair, Joe Irvin OBE. Our Trustees will help steer our strategic direction and ensure the good governance and financial wellbeing of the College.
With a proud history of more than a century, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society is now transforming itself into the Royal College of Pharmacy, a registered charity providing public benefit, to sit alongside the other medical royal colleges. This change is due in Spring 2026.
As we already have expertise in pharmacy, this is not a requirement; however, one of the new trustees must have specialist expertise in charity finance. This is a voluntary role, and you would be expected to attend formal board meetings (in person and online) four times a year and annually for a full-day strategic review and planning session. Trustees serve for a term of up to three years with an option for appointment for a further two terms.
Principal Duties as a Board Member:- Contribute actively to the Board, in giving firm strategic direction to the charity, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- Ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- Ensure that the charity pursues its mission, as defined by the objects in its governing document and uses its resources exclusively for the delivery of that mission.
- Ensure effective and efficient administration of the charity.
- Demonstrable strategic leadership – with ability to focus on long-term direction and outcomes rather than operational detail.
- Experience leading or advising organisations through growth, change, or uncertainty.
- Experience within or exposure to sectors with particular sensitivities or complexities, e.g. healthcare, membership, safeguarding or equality-focused work.
- It would be desirable to bring expertise in any of the following areas: change management, marketing and communication, commercial success of a trading subsidiary, safeguarding, education, professional accreditation.
- Knowledge of the wider healthcare environment and in particular patient voice would also be an advantage.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) is the professional leadership body for pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists in Great Britain. We support pharmacists in their education and development, promote pharmacy in the media and government, and lead the way in medicines information across Great Britain and around the world. Our mission is to put pharmacy at the forefront of healthcare. Our vision is to become the world leader in the safe and effective use of medicines.
To apply, please send a CV or Profile and a supporting statement via our website. We are committed to making the application process inclusive. Briefly describe how your skills, experience and personal qualities make you a good candidate for this role. Refer to the role description and person specification for inspiration. (800-word limit) Your specific areas of expertise that will be beneficial to our board of trustees. Interviews will take place in the week commencing 01/02 April 2026.
Board Trustee employer: Royal Pharmaceutical Society
Contact Detail:
Royal Pharmaceutical Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Board Trustee
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the charity's mission and recent developments. Show us that you're genuinely interested in the role and how you can contribute to steering the strategic direction of the College.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the needs of the board. We want to hear about your strategic leadership experience and how it can help us navigate change.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Board Trustee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Board Trustee role is all about. Dive into the job description and person specification to see what skills and experiences they’re looking for. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to highlight your skills and experiences that align with the role. Be specific and give examples of how you've demonstrated strategic leadership or navigated change in previous roles. We want to see the real you!
Keep It Clear and Concise: While you have an 800-word limit, remember that clarity is key. Avoid jargon and keep your language straightforward. Make sure your points are easy to follow, so we can quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our board.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your CV and supporting statement. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at the Royal College of Pharmacy. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Pharmaceutical Society
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the Royal Pharmaceutical Society's mission and recent changes, especially the transition to the Royal College of Pharmacy. Familiarise yourself with their strategic goals and how your expertise can contribute to their vision.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your strategic leadership and experience in navigating change. Highlight any relevant work in charity finance or sectors like healthcare, as this will resonate well with the board.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Come prepared with insightful questions about the board's current challenges and future direction. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your values and expertise.
✨Be Authentic
During the interview, let your personality shine through. The board is looking for trustees who not only have the right skills but also share a passion for the mission. Be honest about your motivations and how you can make a difference.
