Trustee for the Saferworld Board

Saferworld – We put People at the heart of what we do.

Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives, free from fear and insecurity.

Who we are

Established in 1989 Saferworld is an independent international organisation working to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and conduct wider research and analysis. We use this evidence and learning to improve local, national and international policies and practices that can help build lasting peace.

Today, with headquarters in London and a presence in regional and policy centres including Brussels, Nairobi, Vienna, Washington DC and Beijing, we remain one of the world’s leading organisations on conflict prevention thinking and practice. Learn more about us by visiting: www.saferworld.org.uk

About the board

The Board of Saferworld is currently looking for new Trustees to join us at an exciting time to support our strategy development and continue our peacebuilding work in complex environments. Our organisation is led by its Board, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the organisation. Being a Saferworld Trustee is an influential and valuable role and you will make an important contribution to our current peacebuilding work, and our future direction.

Who we are looking for

We are interested in hearing from individuals who share our values, have capacity for independent and creative thinking, and bring relevant competence and experience to our governing body. Whether you are an experienced Trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we still want to hear from you.

In addition to people with knowledge and commitment around Saferworld’s particular contributions to conflict prevention and peacebuilding policy and programming, we also value experience of the countries and communities where we work. Having a background in specialist areas that will enhance our effectiveness as a board is especially welcome, such as, organisational development and change; executive management and leadership; risk and compliance management; financial management and accounting; media and communications; digital marketing and innovation; human resource development – but also programmatic experience such as the role of social change movements and networks in peacebuilding or political influencing.

Saferworld is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and Trustees. We celebrate difference and applications are actively encouraged from individuals from diverse backgrounds, in particular, those who reflect and represent the communities we work in. We are committed to ensuring gender equality within our organisation and we also welcome young people to apply.

In line with the UK Charity Commission Guidance for Trustees, our Trustees are expected to carry out the following duties honestly and reasonably:

• Ensure the organisation is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit
• Comply with our governing document and law
• Act in the organisations best interests
• Manage the organisation’s resources responsibly
• Act with reasonable care and skill
• Ensure the organisation is accountable

Benefits and Expenses

The benefits of becoming one of our Trustees is the opportunity to make strategic decisions and develop new skills, network with senior professionals, and influence the future shape and direction of Saferworld. In line with the UK Charity Commission regulations no payment will be made for these positions, but all expenses will be reimbursed for attendance at our quarterly meetings.

Time commitment

Your minimum commitment in an average year is likely to be about 5 to 6 days, of which 4 would be on fixed dates, planned well in advance. We encourage active participation and Trustees often give more time. Initial term of office is for 3 years, with the potential to be reappointed for a further 3 years.

There are four Board meetings a year, each lasting one day – usually in London (we welcome applications/expressions of interest from well-qualified people who are based in any region of the world, and not simply those within easy access of London). In addition, there are number of meetings a year of the different Working Groups and Committees. We also encourage Trustees to visit a country programme internationally when possible or required – and you’ll be invited to attend occasional events to support the charity and asked to provide support and advice when appropriate.

You will be offered a comprehensive induction and ongoing support by your peers and colleagues, including sessions at every Board meeting about our work and the Trustee role.