Organisation Overview
The Habbit Factory is an inclusive theatre and arts charity based in Havering, established in 2004. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to take part in the arts, regardless of their circumstances in life. Our motto is "where everyone can have their moment in the spotlight."
We work primarily with children and young people through weekly inclusive performing arts workshops, co-creating original performances and providing opportunities to develop confidence, creativity and skills in acting, singing and dancing. We also run an Education & Outreach programme, working with schools, charities and other partners through workshops, creative projects and tailored programmes addressing issues affecting young people.
Our work is about much more than putting on performances. We create welcoming spaces where people can participate, build confidence, develop relationships and challenge stigma, while making high-quality theatre accessible to people who may otherwise face barriers to taking part in the arts.
Role Details
The Habbit Factory is looking for a Trustee acting as Board Secretary to help us strengthen our governance as we continue to grow.
Working alongside the Chair and other Trustees, you will help make sure our Board meetings and decision-making are well-organised and properly recorded. This will include helping to prepare agendas and meeting papers, taking and maintaining clear minutes, keeping track of agreed actions and decisions, and helping ensure that important governance documents and records are kept up to date.
You will also play a pivotal role in ensuring that the charity complies with all applicable laws and regulatory frameworks, with a particular focus on Charity Law, contract compliance, and employment legislation. As we are currently an unincorporated charity and are actively reviewing our governance and future structure, this role offers an exciting opportunity to guide us through potential structural changes (such as incorporating into a Charitable Incorporated Organisation) and help build robust, legally compliant foundations for the next stage of THF's development.
You don't need to have been a charity secretary before, but we are looking for someone organised, thoughtful, and with a keen eye for compliance, who is willing to work collaboratively with the rest of the Board.
Skills and Experience
We'd particularly welcome someone with experience in governance, administration, meeting management, minute-taking, project coordination, or working with policies and formal documents.
To help us protect the charity and our team as we grow, we are especially keen to hear from individuals with a background or interest in Charity Law, HR/employment compliance, contract review, or legal risk management.
We're looking for someone who:
• Is organised, reliable, and has good attention to detail.
• Can write clear and accurate minutes and keep track of actions.
• Is comfortable working with formal documents, legal structures, policies, and procedures.
• Can communicate clearly and confidently with trustees and colleagues.
• Understands the importance of confidentiality and handling information appropriately.
• Is willing to ask constructive questions and flag legal or operational risks that may need attention.
• Can work collaboratively and bring a practical, calm approach to Board discussions.
• Has an interest in inclusive theatre and the work of The Habbit Factory.
Charity or trustee experience would be useful but isn't essential. We are much more interested in finding someone who has the right skills, approach, and commitment to help THF grow sustainably and safely.
Attendance: Meetings are mostly remote, except for the AGM which is usually an in-person requirement, although exceptions can be made. Events such as performances are in-person around London Boroughs of Havering and Barking & Dagenham.
Time Commitment: Minimum commitment of 5 trustee meetings per year, including the AGM. Trustees should allow additional time between meetings for reading papers, preparing for meetings, following up actions and carrying out governance responsibilities, equivalent to approximately one day per month overall. There may be additional time commitments at certain points in the year, particularly around the AGM or specific governance projects. Attendance at THF events is optional but encouraged.
To apply for or express an interest in this position, please email bicenquiries@weareadvocate.org.uk
Causes:
Children and Youth, Community Support, Disability, Education, Music, Drama and Arts
