Trustee
British Red Cross
UK wide
Voluntary basis, with reasonable expenses reimbursed
The British Red Cross stands for humanity. We support people living through a crisis, we’ll listen to what they need and get them the right help, whether that’s food, first aid, cash, healthcare, or emotional support. And we’re committed to making life better for people in crisis in the UK and across the world. The emergencies might be different, from dealing with floods or drought due to climate change, to leaving your country to find safety, to suffering alone with poor health, but we remain here for those who most need our help, without discrimination and with kindness. We are the British Red Cross, the world’s emergency responders.
This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of the UK’s most respected and trusted charities, and to contribute to the work of the world’s largest humanitarian network, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. At a time when humanitarian need continues to grow, both in the UK and around the world, the role of the British Red Cross has never been more important.
Over the past year we have refreshed our Strategy 2030, sharpened our priorities and strengthened our organisational resilience. We have supported people affected by crises across the UK and around the world, continued to advocate for positive change on behalf of those we serve, invested in our people and volunteers, and begun a significant programme of digital and organisational transformation. We are ambitious about the difference we can make and determined to ensure that our resources, influence and expertise are directed where they are needed most.
THE ROLE
We are seeking an exceptional individual who can make a significant contribution at board level through their personal impact, presence and ability to influence. You will have led at scale, whether in a senior role in a major organisation in the commercial, public or not-for-profit sector, or by building an enterprise or movement. You will bring sound judgement, strategic insight and the confidence to contribute meaningfully to board discussions on the most important issues facing the organisation.
We are particularly interested in candidates who can act as a credible ambassador for the British Red Cross and who can bring strong networks that open doors to the businesses, philanthropists and decision makers whose support will shape our next chapter, and the ability to connect people, ideas and opportunities as we grow our income, accelerate our digital transformation and strengthen our voice with government. Equally important is a genuine commitment to our charitable purpose and fundamental Principles, with motivation rooted in the impact you wish to achieve for people in crisis.
As a board, we are committed to ensuring that our leadership reflects the diverse communities we serve. We warmly encourage applications from candidates from a broad range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, recognising that senior leadership and influence are built in many different ways and that diversity on the board is important.
If you are excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of the British Red Cross and believe you can make a meaningful contribution to our work, we very much hope you will consider applying.
INFORMATION
Download the candidate brief to find out about the role.
DOWNLOADHow to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:
- Your CV (no more than three sides).
- A covering letter that sets out your motivation for the role and describes the specific experience you can bring to the appointment.
We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.
Recruitment timetable
Closing date: Friday 11th December 2026
Preliminary interviews with Starfish Search: w/c 4th January 2027
Final Panel interviews: w/c 25th January 2027
Apply