About the organisation
Formed in 1944, we were established to be open to all and speak on behalf of mountaineers, climbers and hillwalkers, protecting spaces and supporting them in their activities.
Nearly 80 years later, more and more people are experiencing the enjoyment of being in the outdoors and recognising the benefits of active lifestyles for mental and physical health and wellbeing. Activities that can be shared across generations, in groups or individually.
We have always had a clear purpose: to make the climbing and outdoor experience of the people we represent as good as it can be. And while these activities have changed and participation has grown immeasurably over the years, this purpose holds as true as ever.
We campaign for freedom of access and the right to roam, we fund footpath repairs and run campaigns to clean up our hills; and we are continually working for improved access to and the conservation of places we love.
What we do
We protect the future of hill walking, climbing and mountaineering so people can embrace adventure, both now and for generations to come. The freedom that adventure brings should be available to all, so we support and prepare people, share vital knowledge and give our community a strong voice.
Where we do it
From rugged peaks to coastal cliffs, the BMC protects and repairs our wild places, collaborates to keep access open for all, and develops emerging climbing talent to create Olympic and Paralympic stars of the future.
Who we do it for
The more people we can inspire, the better.
Why we do it
We relish challenge in all its forms; from taking part, to performing at the highest level. Challenge enriches lives, provides mental and physical well-being and unifies our community.
Our mission & values
Community - Sustainability – Adventure – Aspiration - Respect
Our mission is to support our passionate community and inspire those curious about our activities to get out and enjoy them. We support and prepare you to be safe and responsible, whilst campaigning to ensure access to the great outdoors. We are custodians of these spaces and our environment for future generations.
As we grow towards 100,000 members, so does the strength of our voice on behalf of these important issues. We proudly live and breathe our values.
About the role
The BMC is seeking to appoint an Independent Director, with specialist experience and expertise in Finance/Accountancy.
The successful candidate must be a professionally qualified accountant and a member of a recognised accounting body (i.e. ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA)
This is an exciting opportunity to be involved with leading the BMC, using your skills and expertise in financial management and controls, and governance. The role will appeal to those who recognise the well-being benefits of active participation in outdoor activities, and who share our care and concern for the natural environment.
The role provides an opportunity to gain satisfaction from contributing to decision-making and scrutiny at a time when the BMC is seeking to grow its membership and enhance its services, whilst championing the environment in the context of increased outdoor participation. The successful candidate will also join at a time of increased focus following Olympic success and planned Paralympic participation.
The Board aspires to be both diverse and inclusive; encompassing a wide range of perspectives, approaches and experiences, which we believe are essential to driving further innovation, challenge and creativity within our sporting environment – mountain, crag and indoor. In line with this ethos, we are keen to achieve a more representative Board. We encourage applications from the widest range of backgrounds, particularly where there is often under-representation. We are particularly keen to encourage female, black, Asian and LGBT+ applicants, and applications from those with disabilities, faith and racial groups. We are committed to recruiting a board that is representative of society.
To ensure compliance with the Code for Sports Governance, the BMC is structured as follows:
the Board: responsible for the strategic direction and organisational policy of the BMC and ensuring its financial viability and meeting legislative requirements
Members’ Council: acts as the representative body of the members and consults with and constructively challenges the Board on behalf of the members.
CEO and staff: responsible for the day-to-day operation of the BMC.
Members: required to approve major decisions of a constitutional nature at an AGM.
The new Independent Director will be expected to contribute to the completion of this phase of stabilisation and lead the BMC into a period of growth.
They will be expected to Chair the Board Finance and Audit Committee.
Duration
Initial term of 3-years from appointment; subject to ratification at the September 2025 AGM; possibility for second 3-year term
Renumeration
Voluntary position – travel and accommodation expenses covered only
Frequency
The Board is scheduled to meet 8 times during 2025, with a mixture of evening virtual meetings and full day face to face meetings which most often will take place at the Manchester office. The Board Finance and Audit Committee will meet as an absolute minimum of 4 times / year and as frequently as is required to maintain good financial oversight
In addition, there will be additional business between meetings (via email, correspondence/Teams calls / relevant reading) and in total the role is estimated to require a minimum of 30 days a year
Reporting to
Chair, Board of Directors
Our ideal candidate
The successful candidate will have a dual role as a Board Director and Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee.
As an Independent Director, you will be a part of a team expected to analyse plans and strategic options in a constructive way, help lead and direct the future development of the BMC. The Board will look to you to lead on financial management and all of the associated financial compliance, risk and governance.
As Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee (FAC) you will lead a small committee that will make recommendations to the Board, authorise commitment to expenditure, grant and contractual agreements as delegated by the Board, and drive improvement in financial controls, policies, procedures and financial risk management. FAC meets 4 times per year.
The successful candidate may also find it useful to attend occasional meetings of the Members’ Council which occur 4 times / annum, typically 2 of which are virtual and 2 of which are face to face.
There is also an opportunity to contribute to the work of various committees and task groups which report to the Board and which fulfil governance or specialist roles.
We encourage you to apply for this role if you feel you meet the key skills and experience listed below, even if you feel you do not have all of them. We are passionate about identifying the right people to help us develop and thrive.
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate and apply their expertise to the following:
Financial management (including budget setting)
Risk management (including oversight of financial systems and controls)
Chair the Finance & Audit Committee
Corporate governance (including compliance with policies, and policy creation/adaption)
In terms of experience and characteristics, the candidate will possess the following:
Relevant financial/accountancy qualifications
Budget setting (experience within an NGB, or Professional Sport advantageous but not critical)
Experience as a member of, or reporting to board or equivalent, ideally in a non-executive capacity
Previous experience of strategic and operational planning
Managing change and transformation
Implementing new finance-processes and/or evolving current practice
Operating at a Board level position
Ability to consider complex issues with the aptitude to think creatively and strategically
Skills to challenge, support and present views in a clear and concise manner
Commitment to improving diversity and equality across the sport
A passion for sport and a willingness to devote time, energy and effort to the BMC and its activities.
To be eligible for appointment, candidates must be free from any close connection to the BMC within the last 4 years. This means that anyone applying for the role must not have been: on Members’ Council; an employee; an officer of the BMC; or closely connected to any such persons in the last 4 years.
Applicants are expected to have a strong affinity for the work and responsibilities of the BMC, irrespective of whether or not they are existing members.
What’s in it for you
1. Impact: Shape the future of mountaineering, climbing, and outdoor activities while contributing to environmental sustainability.
2. Strategic Leadership: Play a key role in high-level decision-making and financial governance as the Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee.
3. Professional Growth: Enhance your skills in financial oversight, risk management, and governance while guiding the BMC through a period of growth.
4. Champion Diversity: Be part of a diverse and inclusive board, driving innovation and representation in outdoor sports.
5. Personal Fulfillment: Combine your passion for outdoor activities with meaningful work that promotes well-being and access to nature.
6. Networking: Collaborate with fellow board members and industry professionals, expanding your network in the sports and non-profit sectors.
Apply for the role
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