The British Red Cross is looking to appoint a trustee to join its board and to serve as chair of the finance and audit committee, and provide financial oversight across budgeting, reporting, investment strategies, and risk management.

We are looking for people with passion, energy, commitment, and vision to help reach out and make an impact on the lives of people vulnerable to crisis. You need to be able to share your dedication to the role and be an internal and external ambassador for the organisation.

The chair of the finance and audit committee (FAC) plays a critical role in ensuring that the board upholds the financial integrity, sustainability, and accountability of the British Red Cross. In addition to financial and audit oversight, they will need to demonstrate confidence and experience in areas including risk management and governance. The successful candidate will be a qualified chartered accountant (ACA or FCA) with broad audit experience and business acumen.

The responsibilities of the chair of FAC include:

• Providing leadership and guidance to the finance and audit committee, and investment subcommittee ensuring that its activities align with the strategic objectives and governance framework of the British Red Cross.
• Ensuring that the BRC adheres to relevant financial regulations, accounting standards, and internal policies. This may involve overseeing external audits, internal audits, and compliance reviews.
• Monitoring the effectiveness of internal controls and financial systems to safeguard the organisation's assets and prevent fraud or misuse of funds.
• Contributing to the development of financial strategies and long-term financial plans that support the mission and objectives of the British Red Cross.
• Reporting regularly to the board of trustees on the financial performance and position of the organisation, as well as any significant financial risks or issues that require attention.
• Ensuring the effective functioning of the finance and audit committee, including setting meeting agendas, facilitating discussions, and promoting collaboration among committee members.
• Engaging with key stakeholders such as donors, regulators, auditors, and government agencies on financial matters, representing the organisation's interests and maintaining transparency.
• Reviewing and improving financial processes, policies, and controls to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability.

For the current FAC terms of reference click here.

Trustees must evidence that they meet the following criteria:

• A commitment to making a difference to the lives of people in crisis in line with our Strategy 2030.
• The ability to think strategically, to use insight to make decisions and to contribute to the strategic direction of the organisation.
• The ability to bring constructive challenge and positive edge to board discussions.
• A proven record of using good, independent judgement in effective evidence and data-based decision-making.
• Experience of operating within a board or committee structure in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation.
• Experience of working in large, complex organisations with many stakeholders.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.

Personal qualities and characteristics:

• A willingness to speak one’s mind and effective communication skills with a range of audiences.
• The ability to work effectively with others as part of a team and to accept collective corporate responsibility for decision-making.
• A commitment to the British Red Cross, including its equality, diversity and inclusion policy and demonstrable commitment to inclusive practice and championing diversity.
• A commitment to the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including neutrality, and to Nolan’s Seven Principles of Public Life.
• A willingness to devote the time required for the role.

Trustees are required, individually and collectively, to:

• Safeguard and promote the good name, reputation, emblem, vision, mission, Fundamental Principles and values of the organisation and to ensure the organisation complies with its governing documents, relevant legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Determine the overall strategic direction and development of the British Red Cross, by agreeing organisational policies, budgets and objectives, and ensuring targets are set and performance is measured against such targets.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and its financial stability.
• Engage actively with fellow trustees, the chair, and the executive leadership team to ensure the board is effective in achieving its purpose.
• Contribute specific skills, knowledge, or experience to help the board reach sound decisions.
• Lead or contribute to committees/panels/groups as requested by the chair.
• Provide ad-hoc advice to the chair, the board and the chief executive on specific topics relevant to their skills and knowledge.
• Attend events, meetings, and conferences on behalf of the organisation, where trustees’ experience will be of particular relevance and value.

The British Red Cross is dedicated to creating a governance structure that mirrors the diverse fabric of our society and recognises the invaluable contributions that diverse lived experiences bring to our decision-making processes.

We warmly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those currently underrepresented in leadership roles, including people with disabilities, individuals from minoritised communities, varied socio-economic statuses, and differing educational paths. We actively encourage applications from across our four Nations, Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England.

Our commitment to inclusivity ensures equal opportunities and support for all applicants.

Join us in shaping a board that reflects the communities we serve and fosters an environment of respect and inclusion.