Trust Manager in Bourne

This is a unique opportunity, and we are delighted to be partnering with Bourne United Charities (BUC) in the search for their next Trust Manager. Bourne United Charities (BUC) is a long-established local charity responsible for almshouses, community grants, land and property assets, and the stewardship of historic endowments for the benefit of the people of Bourne. This is a varied, all-encompassing role that would be well suited to a highly organised and commercially minded individual who will lead the day-to-day administration and operational management of the charity. This is a key role supporting the Board of Trustees, ensuring BUC is well-governed, compliant, financially sound, and delivering meaningful public benefit. The successful candidate will be an effective administrator, confident communicator, and capable manager with governance awareness and a commitment to community service.

About the Role

The Trust Manager is the charity’s senior operational lead, responsible for:

• Managing BUC’s property portfolio of over 70 properties, including almshouses, allotments, and historical buildings.
• Managing governance, compliance, and reporting requirements.
• Overseeing financial administration and working with professional advisers.
• Providing support and guidance to almshouse residents.
• Administering community grants and charitable activities.
• Leading day-to-day HR administration and staff/contractor supervision.
• Acting as the main point of contact for stakeholders, partners, and residents.
• Supporting Trustees with strategic planning and organisational development.

This role requires a high level of professionalism, discretion, and independence, with the ability to manage diverse responsibilities across property/estates, governance, finance, HR, and community engagement. While experience in some areas is essential, we are keen to speak with applicants from a variety of backgrounds who have a genuine interest in this opportunity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare agendas, papers, reports, and minutes for Trustee meetings.
• Oversee budgeting, financial processes, investment monitoring, and income collection.
• Manage commercial property leases, property maintenance, safety compliance, and contractor relationships.
• Support almshouse residents with allocations, tenancy matters, and welfare concerns.
• Administer grant programmes and monitor impact.
• Lead HR administration, including recruitment coordination, training records, payroll information, and staff supervision.
• Maintain positive relationships with local organisations, authorities, and community groups.
• Provide clear, evidence-based advice to Trustees and support long-term planning.
• Ensure compliance with the Charities Act, Charity Commission guidance, trust deeds, and statutory obligations.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience in property, housing, or estate management.
• Financial literacy and confidence working with budgets and professional advisers.
• Excellent written communication and administrative skills.
• Ability to work sensitively with residents and collaboratively with Trustees.
• High integrity, professionalism, and organisational capability.

Desirable:

• An understanding of charity governance and compliance, or previous experience of working within the charity sector.
• Experience within tenancy or social housing management.
• Knowledge of investment management principles, professional or personal.
• Ideally previous experience in local government, community development, or trustee-led organisations, whether personal or professional.
• Understanding of safeguarding and welfare pathways.

This is a rewarding opportunity to play a central role in a respected local charity with deep roots in the community. You will help shape the future of BUC’s assets, services, and charitable impact, ensuring they continue to benefit Bourne for generations to come.

For more information, please apply or contact Strange + Wright Recruitment Partners directly.