UKCISA is a charity, governed by a Board of 15 volunteer trustees. Our trustees ensure that we are a well-run, financially sustainable, and dynamic organisation that has a wide impact – for our members, for international students and for other stakeholders. 

The Trustees of UKCISA are ultimately responsible for directing the affairs of the organisation. They must ensure that it is well run and delivers the objectives for which it has been set up. They must ensure that we work for and with its membership in all that it does. They should maintain a collective responsibility at all times.  

At this time, experience of a senior leadership position in a membership organisation is desireable, but not required.

Successful applicants will be able to demonstrate to a significant commitment to UKCISA and its charitable objectives.

Each vacancy is for three years in the first instance, with the option to be reselected for a further three years by mutual agreement. 

Detailed areas of responsibility are as follows: 

Management and governance 

• Ensure the organisation pursues its stated charitable objects as defined in its Articles of Association, by establishing a clear vision, mission, values and strategy, and ensuring that there is a common understanding of these by trustees, staff and other stakeholders. 

• Ensure operational plans and budgets support UKCISA’s vision and strategy, and that performance against its Strategic Plan is evaluated. 

• Ensure that the views of members, international students and other stakeholders are regularly consulted. 

• Monitor the external environment for changes that might impact UKCISA and its members (political, financial, demographic, etc). 

• Ensure that the organisation complies with the Articles of Association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations. 

• Oversee the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including ensuring appropriate policies and procedures are in place. 

• Ensure that the organisation has a robust and transparent governance structure that is appropriate to the organisation and its charitable objects and reflects the diversity of its stakeholders. 

Finance, audit and risk management 

• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation. 

• Protect and manage the organisation’s assets. 

• Regularly review the major risks to the organisation and ensure that systems are in place to mitigate or minimise these risks. 

• Where required, seek professional advice on any matter that presents a material risk to the charity beyond the established risk management process, or where the trustees could be perceived to be in breach of their duties. 

People and Organisational Development 

• Oversee arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the chief executive. 

• Manage performance of the chief executive in the management and administration of the organisation. 

• Ensure that the organisation acts in accordance with employment law and exercises a duty of care to its employees. 

• Ensure that the board regularly reviews its own training needs and creates an expectation of continuous professional development across the organisation. 

Reputational 

• Embody the values of the organisation, and uphold its reputation with its members, funders and international students. 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• A commitment to the organisational values of UKCISA and understanding of our charitable aims 

• A commitment to equal opportunities and the promotion of diversity 

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to attend meetings and contribute to the organisation’s vision and mission 

• An understanding of charity governance or a commitment to develop it 

• Strategic vision 

• Good, independent judgement 

• An ability to think creatively 

• A willingness to speak their mind 

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship. 

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. 

• An ability to challenge current thinking, and management of the organisation in a constructive manner. 

• Ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data/evidence. 

• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. 

Desirable 

• An understanding of the issues facing international students in higher education today and the role of UKCISA in the sector. 

• Experience of co-ordinating and/or delivering strategic vision. 

• Experience of working in a student-facing organisation. 

• Knowledge of Finance. 

• Knowledge of Charity Governance & Law. 

• Knowledge of Business Management. 

• Knowledge of Marketing & Communications. 

Terms of appointment: Trustees will serve an initial three-year term and are eligible for re-appointment for an additional three-year term, agreed by UKCISA’s Nominations committee. In exceptional circumstances, trustees may be invited to stand for a third, final and exceptional term. 

Remuneration: UKCISA trustees are a voluntary role, although reasonable expenses may be claimed for UKCISA duties carried out. 

Location: Based anywhere in UK but must be able to travel to London for occasional meetings. Trustees are also invited to attend UKCISA’s Annual Conference, which takes place at various UK locations in late June/early July each year. 

Time commitment: Usually Four Trustee meetings per year (a combination of in-person and virtual and usually February, May, July and November). In between Board meetings, time commitment will include but is not limited to: preparation time, reading papers, and responding to emails in between meetings. Trustees may also be invited to attend thematic meetings related to their interests or skillset. In-person Board meetings usually take place in central London.  

Trustees are also expected to serve on one of UKCISA six Board committees as part of their duties. Committees meet on average two times per year, online, and will require some time to prepare, read papers and respond to emails in between meetings. 

All UKCISA Trustee meetings are usually scheduled between the hours 9-5pm, Monday to Friday (as well as occasional away days and UKCISA annual conference).