Trustee

ACISS is dedicated to educating, informing, connecting, and equipping African immigrants and people of African descent in Surrey and Sussex with the people and resources they need to foster a thriving community. We believe that by fostering a sense of belonging and community, we can break down cultural divides and promote a harmonious and prosperous society for all.

We are looking for Trustees to join our diverse board to play a vital role in ensuring that the organisation is well-run, financially sound, and delivering on its mission. Working collectively as the governing body to provide strategic oversight, ensure legal compliance, and safeguard our values and reputation.

Main responsibilities are:  

Governance & Strategy

• Contribute to setting ACISS’s strategic direction and priorities. 
• Monitor performance against agreed objectives and outcomes. 
• Ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, and other relevant regulations. 

Financial Oversight 

• Review and approve budgets, financial statements, and funding proposals. 
• Ensure that ACISS’s resources are used responsibly and in line with its charitable purposes. 

Risk Management & Compliance 

• Identify and manage risks to the organisation, its beneficiaries, and reputation. 
• Oversee safeguarding, health & safety, and data protection compliance. 

Advocacy & Representation 

• Act as an ambassador for ACISS in the community and with stakeholders. 
• Promote our mission and encourage new supporters, volunteers, and partners. 

Team Support 

• Support the Organisational Lead and team where appropriate. 
• Attend board meetings, contribute to discussions, and bring independent judgement to decision-making. 
• ACISS trustees work collectively as the governing body of the organisation to provide strategic oversight, ensure legal compliance, and safeguard ACISS’s values and reputation.

Benefits of Volunteering with Us: 

• Use and develop your organisational and governance skills 
• Contribute to a community-led charity making a positive impact 
• Gain experience in charity administration and leadership 
• Be part of a dynamic, growing organisation and contribute to its exciting journey. 

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.  

What skills do I need?

• Commitment to ACISS’s vision, mission, and values.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Sound judgement and ability to think strategically.
• Ideally an understanding of charity governance and trustees’ legal responsibilities.
• Experience in community engagement, fundraising, finance, HR, marketing, or other relevant areas.
• Some knowledge of the needs and challenges faced by African and minority communities in the the local area. 

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

Flexible – approximately 4–6 hours per month, including:  Attendance at quarterly Board meetings and occasional extra meetings Participation in occasional sub-committees or working groups Attendance at ACISS events where possible.