Trustee for the FoundationCambridge United

Job Title | Trustee
Reports to | Chair of the Board
Location | Cambridge

Role Summary
Becoming a Trustee of Cambridge United Foundation is an opportunity to help shape the future of a charity that is improving lives across Cambridge and the surrounding region.

 

We are looking for people with a broad range of professional and lived experiences who can bring fresh perspectives, sound judgement and a genuine commitment to our mission. While we are particularly interested in expertise in areas such as legal, digital, commercial, fundraising, people management, safeguarding and equality, diversity and inclusion, we recognise that effective governance benefits from diverse backgrounds and experience.

Board Structure and Governance

Trustees provide strategic oversight across all aspects of the Foundation's work. The Board is supported by specialist working groups and committees, including those focused on finance, risk, safeguarding and organisational development.

Trustees receive a structured induction programme, including:

·       Introduction to the Foundation and Cambridge United Football Club

·       Charity governance and trustee responsibilities

·       Safeguarding training

·       Equality, diversity and inclusion training

·       Opportunities to visit programmes and meet staff and participants

 

Key responsibilities, but not limited to:
Delivering CUF's Purpose
• Understand and promote the charity's purposes as set out in its governing document.
 • Develop and oversee strategic objectives and operational plans.
 • Ensure all activities and communications support the charity's aims and public benefit.
 • Oversee income generation, investments, and financial sustainability.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
 • Ensure compliance with the governing document, charity law, and other relevant legislation.
 • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records with the Charity Commission.
 • Ensure timely submission of annual returns, accounts, and required reports.
Acting in the Charity's Best Interests
 • Contribute to informed, balanced, and effective Board decision-making.
 • Consider both short-term and long-term implications of decisions.
 • Avoid conflicts of interest and declare any potential conflicts.
 • Ensure any trustee benefits are properly authorised and demonstrably in the charity's interests.
Financial Stewardship and Risk Management
 • Exercise reasonable care, skill, and diligence, seeking professional advice where necessary.
 • Commit sufficient time to prepare for, attend, and actively participate in Board meetings.
 • Ensure CUF is well-run, effective, and able to demonstrate compliance.
 • Maintain accountability to the Football Club and within the charity, including delegated responsibilities to staff and volunteers.
Governance and Accountability
Trustee Decision-Making
• Act within trustee powers, in good faith, and solely in the charity's interests.
• Make decisions based on relevant information and appropriate advice.
• Consider all relevant factors and disregard irrelevant influences.
• Manage conflicts of interest and loyalty appropriately.
• Ensure decisions are reasonable and defensible.
• Maintain records of significant decisions and their rationale.

Person Specification – Skills and Qualities (not exhaustive)

 

Essential Criteria

· Commitment to the Foundation's vision, mission and values

· Strategic thinking and an ability to see the bigger picture

· Sound judgement and effective decision-making skills

· Ability to provide support and constructive challenge

· Personal integrity and commitment to high standards of governance

· Willingness to devote sufficient time and preparation to the role

· Commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion

 

Desirable Criteria

· Previous trustee, governance or non-executive experience

· Expertise in one or more of the following: 

o   Legal

o   Digital and technology

o   Commercial development

o   Fundraising and income generation

o   Human resources and people management

o   Equality, diversity and inclusion

o   Public sector leadership

· Existing networks within Cambridgeshire and the wider region

· Experience of working with charities, community organisations or sports organisations

Time Commitment 

Trustees typically serve an initial three-year term. The expected commitment includes:

·       Four Board meetings per year (2-hours in person).

·       Annual strategy and development day

·       Participation in one of our three subcommittees, which are held in a hybrid format: 1. Finance & Fundraising 2. Compliance & Safeguarding 3. Programme

·       Occasional attendance at Foundation events and programme visits