Who this is for
This pathway is for a charity, a foundation, an NGO, a social enterprise, a membership association.
Trustees will find the duties, the difficult dynamics, and guidance that does not assume a governance budget. Chief executives and chairs will find help appointing trustees, refreshing a board, and running one with the resources actually available.
The title varies. Trustee is used across the United Kingdom and several other jurisdictions. Board member or director are titles used elsewhere. Governor is used in some educational settings. The detail of the duties differs by jurisdiction.
What you will find here
- A clear explanation of your duties and where personal liability may arise..
- Mission and sustainability held together: reserves, restricted funding, and the point at which growth becomes a risk.
- Insight into founder and executive dynamics, and how boards handle an authority that is difficult to challenge.
- Practical advice on recruiting and refreshing a board without a governance budget.
- Guidance on culture, safeguarding, and conduct, where expectations are highest and consequences most severe.
Not quite you?
Looking at a commercial board seat? Go to Aspiring NEDs or Early-stage NEDs.
Are you a commercial company appointing a NED? Go to Companies.
Join the community! Always free, and it only takes a name and an email address.
Questions people ask
What is a charity trustee?
A charity trustee is a member of the governing body, responsible for direction, finances, and compliance with the law and the governing document. The role carries different titles in different jurisdictions.
Are trustees paid?
In many jurisdictions trustees are unpaid by default and payment requires specific authority. Reasonable expenses are normally recoverable.
Am I personally liable as a trustee?
In most jurisdictions, yes, although the extent depends on the legal form of the organisation and on whether indemnity insurance is held. Incorporated structures generally limit exposure.
How is not-for-profit governance different?
The core disciplines are similar. The differences lie in accountability to beneficiaries and funders instead of shareholders, in restricted income, in boards that are often unpaid and larger, and in a stronger regulatory focus on purpose and safeguarding.
How do we recruit trustees without a budget?
Start with a brief describing the contribution the board is missing, then use trustee matching services, sector connections, and open advertisement.