Volunteer Trustee

What will you be doing?

The RSPCA West Dorset Branch is a separate charity affiliated to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). The branch is governed by a board of trustees and runs the Taylor’s Rehoming Centre at Kingston Maurward and three charity shops in Bridport, Weymouth and Sherborne. The branch covers West Dorset including Bridport, Sherborne, Lyme Regis, Weymouth and Dorchester and East Devon including Axminster. We are a new board of trustees currently developing our strategy to oversee the work of the branch over the next few years. Income generation is a strategic priority for us to ensure that Taylors Rehoming Centre can continue to rescue and rehome animals in need. We are in the process of expanding our shop staff who are responsible for the day to day running, staffing and management of the three current shops. We are also looking to expand our shop locations in the future, therefore this is a very exciting and hands on trustee role who enjoys project management. The retail trustee will liaise with the shop staff. Trustee meetings are currently held on the third Wednesday of every month (although we may change this in the future to be every other month) at the Taylors Rehoming Centre at Kingston Maurward College in the evenings. 

What are we looking for?

Ideally located within a 30 mile radius of Dorchester Previous experience of being a trustee (desirable) Previous experience in the charity retail sector (desirable) Proven experience in business management, finance or retail operations Strong understanding of financial statements and budgeting practices Familiarity with the relevant legal and regulatory frameworks for retail businesses Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to contribute to strategic decision making Commitment to the work of the RSPCA nationally, the West Dorset Branch and to improving the welfare and outcomes for animals Availability to attend trustee meetings and undertake work on behalf of the trustees Commitment to ethical business practices and community involvement Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Oversight of clear goals and performance metrics for our shops

What difference will you make?

This role presents an opportunity to utilise your skills in retail management to contribute to the pivotal work of the West Dorset Branch and Taylors Rehoming Centre and to improve outcomes for animals in their care. 

Governance and oversight, and important decision making to move the branch shops forward Acting in accordance with branch rules Exciting opportunities and autonomy to revolutionize the shops Attending networking events to promote the branch  Helping to Promote Taylor's and ensuring that all decisions are legally compliant  Joining a board of 6 trustees, who are like-minded and adore animals