Overview

We are seeking an experienced governance professional to join our Corporate Office team for 1-year maternity cover. The expected start date for the role is late November 2025. Based in Liverpool or London, regular travel to our London office will be required to service Board and Committee meetings on pre-scheduled dates (Usually 5 Board meetings and 7 Committee meetings per year). You will ensure effective governance of the Charity Commission that fulfils our statutory obligations, follows best governance practice, delivers our governance framework, and meets changing business needs. This will include influencing and providing professional governance support to the Chair, Chief Executive and Board. You will also deliver a high-quality and expert secretariat service to the Board and its sub-Committees.

Responsibilities

• Provide a high-quality, well-organised secretariat service for the Board and its sub-committees, including maintaining forward plans, agreeing agendas, managing the papers process, quality assuring and circulating papers, and taking high-quality minutes that accurately reflect discussions and record action points.
• Lead all matters relating to Board recruitment and induction, acting as the key point of contact for the DCMS Public Appointments team, advising on Board succession planning, submitting reappointment requests, and coordinating inductions to equip Board Members to perform their roles effectively.
• Use creativity and judgement to brief and advise Board members on governance, procedure and propriety. Anticipate complex issues where there is no guidance, identifying pragmatic options within governance guidelines.
• Coordinate the production and laying of the Annual Report and Accounts, and lead the production of the Accountability Report.
• Ensure governance documentation (Governance Framework, Governance Handbook, Framework Document, Scheme of Delegation and related policies) is comprehensive, reviewed periodically, reflects best practice, and is understood and complied with by all stakeholders.
• Maintain an impeccable eye for detail and meticulous organisational skills to support the smooth running of a public sector Board.
• Support stakeholders and respond to complex situations to drive effective governance and support strategic decision making.

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience of supporting Board or Committee secretariat roles in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment.
• Experience and expertise in charity, public sector or similar governance environment.
• Report writing and minute-taking skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills to effectively persuade and influence senior stakeholders across the organisation.
• Ability to plan, prioritise and work collaboratively at all levels to achieve demanding targets and deadlines.
• A Personal Statement (maximum 750 words) demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria for the role outlined in the Job Description.

Interview and Selection

• At interview you will be assessed on knowledge and experience and the following behaviours: Seeing the Bigger Picture; Making Effective Decisions; Communicating and Influencing; Managing a quality service.