About the organisation
Swindon Food Collective is an independent food bank serving people in Swindon and surrounding areas who are in crisis, experiencing financial hardship and struggling to provide food for themselves and their families.
We’re currently feeding circa 10,000 people per year, one third of whom are children. We receive donations of food, toiletries and household items from members of the public as well as churches, schools, local companies, community groups and supermarkets. The goods go to our warehouse, where they are sorted and packed into food boxes for delivery to our 12 distribution centres across the town and beyond. We work with numerous local organisations who can refer individuals and families in need, and along with the food and essentials, we aim to provide a friendly welcome and signposting to other local agencies for further help.
We’re now looking to recruit a new trustee from an accountancy / finance background to join our Board at a pivotal moment for the organisation as we prepare our new three-year strategy and respond to rising demand. As Finance Trustee, you will be a key member of the Board, providing financial oversight and expertise to support sound governance and long-term viability. You’ll work alongside our Chair, fellow trustees and Senior Leadership Team to ensure Swindon Food Collective uses its resources effectively in service of our mission.
Note that this is not an operational role as book-keeping and day-to-day financial matters are carried out by our part-time paid Finance manager.
About the role
In addition to general trustee responsibilities, you will:
- Provide strategic input and financial oversight at board level
- Chair the Finance Sub-Committee (6 per annum, hybrid or online)
- Ensure regulatory compliance and robust financial controls
- Oversee financial strategy and monitor long-term sustainability
- Advise on financial policies, such as reserves, risk management, and investment strategies
There are 6 Board meetings per annum. These are generally face-to-face at our premises in west Swindon but may be hybrid or online if this is not possible. There would also be a commitment to a Board strategy day and occasional ad hoc meetings and events.
This is a voluntary role; reasonable expenses are covered
Our ideal candidate
- Strong experience in finance, accounting, or financial management.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to assess financial risks and opportunities effectively.
- Ability to analyse complex financial data and communicate insights to non-financial colleagues.
- Commitment to the charity’s mission and desire to act in its best interests.
- Previous trustee or charity experience is welcome but not essential – we’ll support you to gain understanding of governance and trustee responsibilities, including legal and regulatory requirements.
Above all, we’re looking for people who share our values - compassion, purpose, inclusivity and collaboration - and who want to make a meaningful difference. You’ll bring your expertise, your curiosity and your commitment to helping us deal with the growing food poverty issues across our region.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are keen to build a more ethnically and socially diverse Board to ensure we fully represent our community.
What’s in it for you
Becoming a Trustee is a rewarding opportunity to use your financial expertise in a way that will make a real difference to the local community. By bringing your expertise and commitment you will help to shape our future direction and sustainability and ensure that we continue to provide vital support to individuals and families in Swindon with dignity and respect.
Alongside the chance to contribute to a meaningful cause, you’ll develop many valuable new skills, gaining first-hand experience of charity governance and board-level decision-making. Working with a group of committed professionals you’ll also have the opportunity to broaden your strategic thinking and perspective beyond day-to-day financial management.
Apply for the role
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