At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage board meetings and support branch strategies as Secretary of the Board.
- Company: Join a dynamic RSPCA branch dedicated to animal welfare in South London.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a difference for animals and the community.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a commitment to animal welfare and teamwork.
- Other info: This role is perfect for those looking to gain leadership experience in a charitable setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are a very active branch of the RSPCA, running three shops and recently expanded our territory to serve a population of half a million people and countless animals in South London. Our area covers the whole of Croydon Borough plus Balham & Tooting areas. We are also currently considering expanding our territory to take in the whole of South London, a move that would treble our catchment population and increase our shop estate to five.
The role will be Secretary of the board of trustees, a key role in ensuring the smooth running of the branch. Responsibilities will include arranging & managing our monthly board meetings as well as the AGM. You will also be a member of the Senior Leadership Team alongside the Chair & Treasurer and will help set and carry out the branch strategies.
Whilst living within the South London area would be a bonus, this is not essential as the role is mainly remote. Our board consists of ten trustees, with each having a specific role/skillset e.g. finance, retail, HR, marketing. We have 11 meetings a year, plus the AGM, with the vast majority held remotely. Currently we employ 12 people - a branch manager, animal welfare officer and 10 retail staff.
The RSPCA has been around for 200 years and is there for every animal - livestock, wildlife & pets. In South London we rescue and rehome cats, provide discounted microchipping & neutering, and assist pet owners in financial hardship with unexpected vet bills. We also assist the inspectorate in rescuing small wildlife, so that they may be treated where necessary and returned to the wild.
As an RSPCA branch we are an individual charity with our own profit & loss and responsibility to provide animal welfare within our area. We are largely self-funded but do also benefit from grants from the national society. We are also the charity partner of Pets at Home in Wimbledon, plus run several fundraising events throughout the year.
As well as a commitment requiring dedication, the role is extremely rewarding and great fun. You will be working with like-minded people with a common cause.
Secretary of the Board of Trustees employer: RSPCA
Contact Detail:
RSPCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Secretary of the Board of Trustees
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the RSPCA's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to animal welfare will help you align your passion and experiences with their goals, making you a more compelling candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former trustees and staff members. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the role and the organisation, which you can leverage during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your organisational skills by volunteering for similar roles or projects. Highlighting your experience in managing meetings or coordinating teams will showcase your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Secretary position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current issues in animal welfare and charity management. Being knowledgeable about trends and challenges in the sector will allow you to contribute meaningfully to discussions and strategy development within the board.
We think you need these skills to ace Secretary of the Board of Trustees
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Secretary of the Board of Trustees. Highlight your relevant experience in managing meetings and working with a team.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your skills and experiences that align with the role. Emphasise any previous experience in charity work, board management, or leadership roles that demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for animal welfare and your understanding of the RSPCA's mission. Mention specific examples of how your skills can benefit the branch and its goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at RSPCA
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the RSPCA's mission and values, especially how they relate to animal welfare in South London. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare for Board Dynamics
Since you'll be working closely with the board of trustees, think about how you can contribute to team dynamics. Be ready to discuss your experience in managing meetings and collaborating with diverse groups, as this is crucial for the Secretary role.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Emphasise skills that are particularly relevant to the role, such as organisation, communication, and strategic planning. Provide examples from your past experiences that demonstrate these abilities, especially in a charity or non-profit context.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Community Impact
Express your passion for making a difference in the community, particularly in relation to animal welfare. Discuss any previous volunteer work or initiatives you've been involved in that reflect your commitment to similar causes.