Organisation Overview

Brain Research UK funds essential neurological research to discover the causes, develop new treatments and improve the lives of those affected. In the UK, it is estimated that 12 million people are living with a neurological condition. Altogether, there are more than 600 neurological conditions.

Role Details 

We are hoping to recruit a Trustee who is keen to share their legal and commercial skills, knowledge and experience as part of a cohesive Board dedicated to the delivery of sustained success. 

This will be achieved through the funding of world-class research that best fulfils our charitable objects and is faithful to our supporter’s wishes. 

Each member of the BRUK Board is expected to hold themselves, and each other, to account and to the highest standards of governance to ensure the fulfilment of our charitable objects. 

Each BRUK Trustee has the following responsibilities for which they are accountable to the Board:

 Strategic leadership

• To provide leadership to the organisation by participating in the determination of the vision and strategic objectives.
• To question appropriately, but to share collective responsibility for decisions.
• To be well informed about our purpose, services and strategies, and our operating environment.
• To uphold and promote our values.

 Governance

• To attend and contribute to Board and committee meetings, and be punctual or, where attendance is not possible, to submit apologies for non-attendance in advance
• To prepare for, and contribute to Board and committee meetings by suggesting issues for discussion in the agenda (in advance) and by adhering to the agenda at meetings
• To maintain respect for the confidential nature of issues designated as such by the Chair at meetings
• To undertake other functions as required, such as selection panels, working groups
• To ensure balance is maintained between strategic and operational management
• To act with due care and diligence in discharging all legal, regulatory and organisational duties required of a Board member
• To act as a full member of the Board, and not as a representative of any stakeholder or group of stakeholders

External and internal relations

• To challenge and support the CEO appropriately
• To represent BRUK and speak on our behalf when asked to do so by the Chair
• To be mindful of your position and connection in use of social media
• To develop and maintain good relationships with our key stakeholders

Additional responsibilities for this role

• You will help to ensure that the Board honours its collective responsibility to ensure BRUK operates in accordance with its charitable objectives, governing documents and legal obligations, particularly in keeping up to date on evolving Charity Commission (CC) guidance as published from time to time on the CC website
• Bring legal perspective and experience to Board discussions. From time to time, you may be asked to assist with reviewing of supplier and other contracts and/or considering and assessing external legal advice

Skills and Experience 

Knowledge and experience

• A recognised legal qualification together with demonstrable leadership experience.
• Expertise in contracts, compliance and/or risk management
• Experience of the voluntary sector, preferably achieved in a non-executive capacity
• An awareness of charity law and regulation would be ideal

 Skills, personal style and behaviours

• A keen interest in supporting the fundraising strategy of BRUK to help us achieve maximum impact against our charitable objectives
• You will be energetic and will readily understand that those with neurological conditions, and those who give their support to us, are at the heart of any and all of our actions
• Commitment to the vision and mission of BRUK
• An ability to work as part of a team as well as lead and drive, as appropriate
• A positive and open attitude, with the ability to understand the challenges of a small, dynamic team positioned for charitable growth
• A strategic thinker with vision, flair and enthusiasm
• High levels of integrity
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• A willingness to engage personal networks as and when appropriate to further the work of the charity
• Commitment to equality and diversity
• Willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, supported by an appreciation of the respective roles of the Chair and Chief Executive

Attendance: Board meetings are in person and occasional events while the rest of support can be offered remotely. 

Time Commitment:

• Quarterly meetings of the Board take place in Central London either at our office in High Holborn or our investment manager’s office in Marylebone; nearest tube stations being Chancery Lane and Baker Street/Bond Street respectively. The meetings are held from 1100-1300; there may also be an Awayday on an annual or biennial basis.
• The expected time commitment, after a period of induction, is an average of c3 hours per month on average; this may increase periodically if taking on additional agreed activities 
• If necessary, and on occasion, meetings can be attended remotely via Zoom/dial-in; it is preferred that all Trustees attend meetings in person. 
• In addition, you may be expected to attend occasional events.

To apply for or express an interest in this position, please email bicenquiries@weareadvocate.org.uk