Main Purpose

The Board acts as the ultimate decision maker for BUCS, ensuring that it is operating in line with its strategic aims and fulfilling its charitable purposes. The Board are committed to the long-term interests of the organisation and meet regularly to oversee and direct business operations. To do this effectively it is key that the Board are provided with leadership and assurance on the strategic use of technology and data, balancing innovation and opportunity with security and compliance. This role ensures BUCS harnesses digital systems and insight to maximise impact and growth, while safeguarding data integrity, cyber resilience, and compliance with data protection standards.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Technology, Data and Innovation

· Board leadership – Champion the role of technology and data in advancing strategic goals, embedding digital thinking into Board discussions and decisions.

· External advocacy – Act as a visible Board-level champion for responsible, innovative, and value-driven use of technology in engagement with members, partners, and the wider sector.

· Innovation and product development – Provide oversight of how digital platforms, products, and services are developed to enhance participant experience, member value, and organisational efficiency.

· Data as an asset – Ensure data is treated as a strategic product, driving insight, impact measurement, and value creation for members, stakeholders, and commercial partners.

· CRM and commercial maximisation – Oversee how CRM systems and data-driven approaches strengthen engagement, optimise customer journeys, and generate commercial growth.

· Cyber security and data protection – Monitor compliance with data protection laws (e.g. UK GDPR) and ensure cyber resilience and information security are maintained to protect staff, members, and participants.

· Risk and assurance – Work with the Finance Audit and Risk Committee to balance innovation with robust governance, ensuring technology-related risks are identified and mitigated.

· Culture and capability – Promote digital literacy, responsible data use, and a culture of innovation across staff and volunteers

Board Trustee

· Ensure BUCS is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit in accordance with its Articles of Association.

· Ensure compliance with regulatory bodies, codes and funding partners, including but not limited to Companies House, the Charities Commission, HMRC and the UK Code for Sport Governance.

· Act in BUCS’ best interest and ensure BUCS’ resources are managed responsibly.

· Support the delivery of the BUCS Strategy, by advising and constructively challenging the development, implementation and evaluation of the BUCS approach to member engagement

· Support the organisation to identify, manage and mitigate risk, especially elements associated with member engagement.

· Hold a place on additional sub-committees of the Board where necessary.

· Represent BUCS in public.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

BUCS is seeking a Trustee to fulfil the position of Technology, Data and Innovation Lead, providing board-level leadership on the strategic use of technology and data to drive organisational growth, resilience, and impact. The successful candidate will bring expertise in digital transformation, product development, and data strategy, with a strong understanding of how CRM systems, digital platforms, and data assets can enhance member engagement, participant experience, and commercial performance. They will champion innovation in board discussions, advocate for responsible and value-driven technology use externally, and ensure BUCS remains agile, secure, and forward-thinking. A commitment to balancing opportunity with compliance, and embedding digital confidence across the organisation, is essential.

Research shows that some people will refrain from applying for a role if they feel they do not meet 100% of the person specification. BUCS encourages applications from anyone who thinks they meet the key skills and knowledge listed below, even if they feel they do not have all of them. We are passionate about identifying the right people to help us develop and thrive.

Key skills and knowledge

· Ability to guide board-level thinking on how digital platforms, systems, and tools can advance organisational strategy, efficiency, and impact.

· Understanding of digital product lifecycles, user experience design, and platform optimisation—particularly in member-based or service-oriented environments.

· Knowledge of how data can be structured, analysed, and leveraged to generate insight, evidence impact, and inform strategic decisions. Familiarity with data governance and ethical data use.

· Experience with CRM systems and digital engagement tools to improve customer journeys, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and unlock commercial opportunities.

· Understanding of UK GDPR and cyber resilience principles, with experience in monitoring compliance, safeguarding sensitive information, and promoting secure working practices

· Awareness of emerging digital trends (e.g. AI, automation, data visualisation) and their potential to enhance organisational reach, reputation, and resilience.

· Understanding of how innovation and digital growth intersect with governance, compliance, and risk management. Ability to balance ambition with assurance.

· Ability to work constructively with fellow trustees, staff, and stakeholders to embed digital literacy, data confidence, and inclusive practice across the organisation.

· Knowledge of corporate governance and charity law, and the responsibilities of non-executive Trustees.

· Good experience of developing and monitoring the delivery of strategies.

· Ability to work with, support and constructively challenge the Executive and Board colleagues.

· Experience of influencing others, in an advocacy capacity.

· A commitment to BUCS, its mission, vision and values.

· An understanding of sport in the Higher Education environment.

· Highly developed communication and influencing skills.

· Ability to exercise good independent judgement.