UK Trustee

We are currently seeking individuals to join the Board of  Relief International UK as Trustees .

This is a voluntary, non-remunerated position based in the United Kingdom , with quarterly board meetings and an estimated time commitment of approximately 8-10 days per year . Trustees are appointed for an initial term of three years , with the possibility of reappointment.

At Relief International, we are committed to building a representative, inclusive and authentic leadership structure. We strongly encourage applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds who bring a range of experiences, perspectives and expertise that reflect the communities and contexts in which we work.

About Relief International

Relief International is an international non-profit organization that partners with communities impacted by conflict, climate change and disaster to save lives, build greater resilience and promote long-term health and wellbeing.

Working across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, Relief International delivers integrated programming in Health and Nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene), Education, Protection and Livelihoods. We work alongside local partners and communities to deliver humanitarian assistance while supporting long-term resilience and sustainable development.

Relief International UK forms part of the global Relief International alliance and plays a critical role in supporting governance, accountability and strategic oversight of the organization.

About the Opportunity

This is an opportunity to contribute your expertise and leadership to a global humanitarian organization operating in some of the world's most challenging environments.

As a Trustee, you will provide strategic direction and oversight, helping to ensure Relief International UK fulfils its charitable objectives, delivers public benefit and remains accountable to beneficiaries, donors, regulators and stakeholders. Working collectively with fellow Trustees, you will help safeguard the charity's assets, reputation and long-term sustainability while supporting effective governance and decision-making.

The Board is seeking candidates with a strong commitment to humanitarian values and an ability to contribute strategically at governance level. We are particularly interested in individuals who bring expertise in areas such as humanitarian operations, international development, charity governance, safeguarding, fundraising, finance, risk management, legal affairs or organizational leadership.

Your Responsibilities

As a Trustee, you will:

- Provide strategic oversight and contribute to the development and approval of the charity's mission, vision and long-term strategy.

- Monitor organizational performance and ensure the charity is delivering against its strategic objectives and humanitarian commitments.

- Review and approve annual budgets, financial plans and major expenditure decisions.

- Ensure compliance with charitable, governance and regulatory requirements, including obligations under UK charity law.

- Oversee financial sustainability, risk management, internal controls and audit processes.

- Promote strong safeguarding, ethical conduct and accountability throughout the organization.

- Support the effective governance of the organization while providing constructive challenge and independent scrutiny.

- Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and the Executive Director while respecting the distinction between governance and operational management.

About You

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate:

- A strong commitment to humanitarian values, human rights and international development.

- The ability to think strategically and contribute to long-term organizational planning.

- Sound judgement, objectivity and a willingness to provide constructive challenge.

- Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a diverse Board.

- A commitment to high standards of governance, accountability and ethical conduct.

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

- Humanitarian response and international development

- Charity governance and trustee leadership

- Finance, audit and risk management

- Fundraising and resource development

- Safeguarding and protection

- Legal and regulatory compliance

- Organizational transformation and change management

- Digital innovation and technology

- Human resources and people leadership

Previous trustee experience is welcomed but not essential. We encourage applications from individuals who have not previously served on a Board but who can demonstrate the skills, commitment and perspective required to contribute effectively at governance level.

Time Commitment

This role requires:

- Attendance at quarterly Board meetings.

- Attendance at the Annual General Meeting.

- Preparation and review of Board papers, financial reports and supporting materials.

- Occasional participation in committee work or strategic discussions as required.

The estimated total commitment is approximately  8-10 days per year .

This is a voluntary position and is not remunerated. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with Trustee duties will be reimbursed in accordance with Relief International's Trustee Expenses Policy.

How To Apply

To apply for this position, please submit:

- A current CV.

- A brief cover letter outlining your interest in becoming a Trustee and the skills, experience and perspective you would bring to the Board.

Closing Date

Monday, 30 November 2026.

We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis.

As a humanitarian organization, Relief International is committed to safeguarding all those we come into contact with through our work. Relief International expects all Trustees, staff and volunteers to share this commitment and uphold the values and behaviours outlined in the Code of Conduct.

Trustee appointments are subject to eligibility checks and due diligence processes in line with charity governance requirements.