Volunteer Trustees

What will you be doing?

Currently, Cord’s board has five (05) dedicated trustees with a wide range of experience from both the corporate and charity sectors. We strive to be a board where everyone has a voice and an opportunity to use their unique skills to help take Cord further. We do not require trustees to have prior Board experience and are open to seeking trustees with a variety of skills and experiences.  We are interested in hearing from individuals who not only share our Christian values but have an active Christian faith. We celebrate difference in all its interpretations, and applications are actively encouraged from individuals from diverse backgrounds, in particular, those who reflect and represent the communities we work in. At this time, we particularly welcome applications from those with skills/experience in charity fundraising (either public or trusts/major donors or institutional), and legal/charity governance. Trustees are expected to perform a number of duties as part of their service including the following:-

To fulfil the statutory duties of Trustees as set out by the Charity Commission. Ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction; Be responsible for the performance of the charity and for its “corporate” behaviour; Ensure that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard; Provide expert knowledge to the Board in their specialist area; Raise the external profile of Cord and expand our networks

In addition, trustees are encouraged to use their skills and gifts, and whilst it's not a formal requirement, most trustees are members of one of our three sub-committees.  You will need to be able to commit yourself to Board meetings four times a year (twice in-person, typically in Coventry where our global office is based, and twice online) and  three 90-minute meetings inbetween, which typically take place early evenings. There are additional meetings for sub-committee members, usually twice a year. Trustees are invited to serve for a three year period and can serve a maximum of three three-year terms.  This is not a remunerated opportunity but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed. 

What are we looking for?

We do not require trustees to have prior Board experience and are open to seeking trustees with a variety of skills and experiences. We do ask all our trustees to come with the following skills and understanding:-

Committed Christian:- typically this would involve being active in a church or Christian community, with a willingness to engage in times of prayer or reflection and uphold the Christian ethos of the organisation. We welcome applicants from all denominations. Passion for Cord’s peace-building work, and a commitment to Cord’s values, mission and vision. Excellent, proven interpersonal and communication skills: ability to work collectively, courage to challenge constructively where appropriate, whilst being self-aware.  An awareness of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and a willingness to grow in understanding. An awareness of the boundaries between governance and the executive function, whilst still being willing to roll up your sleeves and help out operationally when needed.

We are also ideally looking for trustees with skills and experience in Fundraising/Resource Mobilisation OR Legal. Please refer to the recruitment pack to find out more.  

What difference will you make?

Being a Cord Trustee is a valuable and influential role, helping contribute towards the organisation's current peacebuilding activities and its future direction. Together, the Board of Trustees provides the oversight and accountability necessary to ensure that Cord implements its strategy in line with our values, and complies with the requirements of the Charity Commission.