Volunteer with the Science Council

Help shape the future of the science profession.

We are looking for a new Chair of our Finance, Audit and Risk Committee to support the Science Council; to strengthen the collective impact of the science community for public benefit and realise our ambition of a diverse science profession that is trusted, respected and equipped to deliver national ambitions.  We do this by connecting the science professions to foster knowledge exchange and, through its professional registers, offers interdisciplinary recognition for scientists across the world.

As the Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, you will have a background in finance, preferably in the charity and/or not-for-profit sectors and a track record of being an effective Chair. We are looking for an individual who is forward-thinking and capable of taking a balanced approach to decision-making, with the ability to actively listen and involve others in the process. A positive and engaging demeanour that fits well with a supportive and principled organisation culture is essential.

The ideal candidate will possess a blend of strategic vision, finance experience, and a commitment to advancing the science profession. Essential qualities include strong analytical skills, the ability to think critically. The Chair will work collaboratively with other Committee members, management and the Board of Trustees. Experience of in the working within professional body, membership or regulatory sectors will be highly beneficial. Additionally, candidates would benefit from having a solid understanding to charity audit and risk management frameworks to support our financial stability and strategic growth.

It is an exciting time to join the Science Council as we develop our next three-year strategy, focused on growing the registers and income by developing products that will support science employers to develop their workforces. We are also moving into the next phase of a project, funded by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, to promote science apprenticeships.

This is your opportunity to join an ambitious and well-run organisation and play a leading role in the shaping the future of the Science Council.

We are committed to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, and as such we welcome applicants of all backgrounds to represent the diverse population of people that we serve.

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The closing date is midnight Wednesday 6^th November with interviews being held on Friday 29^th November.

The information pack will provide you with further information about the role and its requirements.

Please note that employees and members of our Member Organisations are not eligible for this role.

For more information contact Governance and Corporate Services Manager, Oliver O’Hanlon.

The role of the Board of Trustees is to:

• ensure that the Science Council has a clear strategic focus
• ensure that the Science Council fulfills its charitable objectives
• ensure that the Science Council complies with its legal and regulatory requirements
• act as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, and ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• monitor and hold management to account

The Charity Commission, our Royal Charter and Bylaws, our Trustee Role Description and our Trustee Code of Conduct set out the responsibilities of trustees.

Trustees serve for an initial three-year term.

There are normally four board meetings per year, held quarterly and set around the charity’s financial reporting cycle. Board meetings last approximately 3 hours.

In addition to formal meetings, trustees may also be required to serve on individual board subcommittees, working groups or be invite to represent the Science Council at external meetings and events.

Trustees are expected to attend the Annual General Meeting, which is normally held in June or July.

It is every applicant's responsibility to receive consent from their employer, if necessary, that it is willing to release the applicant for the time commitments involved.

Anyone can become a trustee of the Science Council as long as they have the energy and commitment for the role.

It is worthy noting that sixty percent of Elected Trustees will come from Member Bodies. They will be either members or employees. Up to 40% of Elected Trustees will come from outside the membership and must not be employees or members of Member Bodies.

Trustees are elected by our Member Bodies, with each Member having one vote. Ballot forms containing the name and other relevant details of candidates for election are sent to every Member Body of the Science Council at least four weeks prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting.

The Board values diversity and actively encourages applications from a wide range of backgrounds and roles to stand for election.

Applicants will be asked to provide details of their current post and summary of their career to date, a personal statement, a summary of their suitability to join the Board, and an up-to-date photo. This information will be circulated to Member Bodies to provide them with the necessary information to make a decision on your suitability for the role.

After the application deadline, the Nominations Committee will review the applications received against the Board's skills requirements. The Committee will then make a recommendation to the Board, which will then put forward candidates to election.

New trustees are expected to participate in trustee induction sessions. This will include meeting with the Chief Executive, Governance Manager and the Chair of the Board.

New trustees will also be invited to attend Board committees to get a better understanding of the work they do in support of the Board. Throughout their term of office, trustee's are encouraged to undertake training, and attend conferences and events to equip them with the knowledge needed to discharge their duties.

If you would like more information on becoming a trustee please contact Oli O’Hanlon.