Vice Chair - Trustee Governance

Reports to: Chair of Trustees

Time Commitment: Office hours some evenings to be agreed.

Term: 3 years, renewable by agreement

SEDSConnective is an award-winning, highly respected, small, voluntary charity uniquely focused on neurodivergence and hypermobility, offering trustees the chance to make a real difference. We do not have an executive Board or staff.

Role Overview:

The Vice Chair (Officer, Governance) is a key leadership role in our voluntary charity not a ceremonial title so the opportunity to make a difference. You will work closely with the Chair to ensure we are legally compliant, well-governed and strategically effective. You will also help lead the board, shape our direction and step in for the Chair whenever needed. This role requires proven experience, energy and a strong commitment to our mission.

All trustees share responsibility for making sure that the charity's money is safe, used properly and accounted for. 

Skills

Key Responsibilities

Lead on Governance 

• Ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law & all regulatory requirements.
• Champion best practice in governance, safeguarding & risk management.
• Work on strategy & tactical documents.
• Keep organisational policies up to date and relevant.
• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings subcommitee or other meetings.
• Set agenda with Chair & other meetings.
• Chair meetings & represent the charity in the Chair’s absence.
• Provide leadership, support & guidance to other trustees.
• Direct board policymaking.

Board Effectiveness

• Work with the Chair to set agendas, ensure focused meetings & track follow-up actions.
• Support recruitment, induction & development of trustees and charity.

Strategic Leadership

• Key role in shaping & monitoring our strategic plan.
• Bring constructive challenge and fresh ideas.

Stakeholders

• Build positive relationships with Patrons, advisers & stakeholders.
• Be an ambassador.

Benefits

1. Leadership & Influence
The opportunity to shape governance, strategy & policy will give the volunteer a key leadership role in guiding the charity’s direction & ensuring best practice across the organisation.

2. Professional Development
By engaging in governance, strategic planning & stakeholder management, the volunteer develops highly transferable skills in leadership, compliance, risk management & board effectiveness.

3. Meaningful Impact & Networking
The role allows the volunteer to make a tangible difference by supporting the charity’s mission, while also building relationships with trustees, patrons, advisers & external stakeholders.

Practical Considerations

3-7 hours per week across meetings, preparation, governance tasks and events.

• Trustee board meetings 4 x year plus subcommitee meetings.

• Most work is remote, but occasional in-person attendance is expected.

• This is an active, involved role for someone who has time to give in office hours as well as evening as needed, keen, proactive and deeply aligned with our vision.

When do I need to be available?

Details	3-7 hours per week across either in or out of office hours for meetings, preparation, governance tasks and events.

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Register your Interest