Taking on a Trustee or Chair position is one of the most rewarding ways to contribute your leadership experience and make a tangible difference. These roles shape the direction, values, and governance of charities and non-profits — ensuring they deliver real impact for their beneficiaries.

At AWS Executive, we provide Global Executive Search and Leadership Recruitment for Charities, Non-Profits, NGOs, and Purpose-Led Organisations. We regularly work with boards seeking exceptional leaders, and we know what makes a Trustee or Chair CV truly stand out.

1. Understand the Role and Responsibilities

Before you start writing your CV, it’s essential to understand what the position involves.

Trustees are members of a charity’s governing board. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the organisation is well-run, financially sound, and delivering on its charitable objectives. It’s a strategic and governance-based role rather than an operational one.

Typical trustee responsibilities include:

• Setting the charity’s vision, mission, and strategy
• Ensuring legal and financial compliance
• Overseeing risk management and safeguarding
• Supporting and challenging the Chief Executive and senior team
• Acting as ambassadors for the organisation
• A Chair of Trustees carries all these responsibilities but also leads the board itself. The Chair ensures effective governance, promotes collaboration, and acts as the main link between the board and the Chief Executive. They set agendas, manage meetings, and foster an inclusive, high-performing board culture.

 

Trusteeship is a collective responsibility — decisions are made together, and all board members share accountability for the charity’s success and integrity.

2. Know the Difference Between Governance and Operations

A common challenge for new Trustees or Chairs is understanding where governance ends and operations begin.

Governance is about oversight, direction, and accountability. Trustees focus on what the charity should achieve and why. They approve budgets, monitor performance, and ensure the organisation meets its legal obligations.

Operations, by contrast, concern how things are done — the day-to-day management, delivery of services, and staff supervision. These are led by the Chief Executive and senior management team.

A strong Trustee or Chair knows how to lead strategically without crossing into operational management. Your CV should reflect this understanding — highlight examples of how you’ve guided strategy, supported senior teams, or influenced culture without directly managing operations.

3. Tailor Your CV for a Governance Role

A Trustee or Chair CV differs from an executive CV. While it still needs to demonstrate leadership and expertise, it should focus more on strategic influence, governance experience, and values alignment.

Here’s what to include:

• Board and Committee Experience: List any current or previous board roles, advisory positions, or committee memberships. Emphasise your contribution to governance, risk oversight, or strategic development.
• Professional Expertise: Many charities look for trustees with specific skills — finance, legal, fundraising, marketing, HR, or digital transformation. Highlight these clearly.
• Understanding of the Sector: Demonstrate familiarity with the charity or non-profit landscape. Mention voluntary experience or partnerships that show your connection to purpose-led work.
• Leadership and Collaboration: Showcase examples of working collectively, influencing at board level, or driving organisational improvement.
• Values and Motivation: Explain why you want to become a Trustee or Chair. Authentic motivation and alignment with a charity’s mission often make a decisive difference.

4. Structure and Style Tips

Keep your Trustee CV concise (ideally two pages). Focus on achievements and governance impact rather than a long list of operational duties.

Formatting tips:

Start with a brief professional summary outlining your leadership background and interest in board roles.
Use clear headings such as “Board Experience”, “Professional Career”, and “Key Skills”.
Quantify impact where possible (e.g., “Supported strategic plan delivering 20% growth in social impact reach”).
Avoid jargon — focus on clarity and results.
Finish with voluntary, charity, or mentoring experience that reinforces your values.

5. Highlight Diversity, Inclusion, and Purpose

Boards increasingly seek Trustees and Chairs who bring diverse perspectives and lived experience. If you’ve contributed to equality, inclusion, or community engagement initiatives, include them. Charities value leaders who understand and represent the communities they serve.

Equally, express your commitment to purpose — trusteeship is about service, not status. Show that you understand the privilege and responsibility of the role.

6. Prepare for the Next Step

Once your CV is ready, consider your board readiness:

Research the charity thoroughly — understand its beneficiaries, strategy, and financials.
Be ready to articulate your governance experience, leadership philosophy, and motivation for joining the board.
Consider completing Trustee training or a governance course if you’re new to the sector.
Remember, charities value passion, professionalism, and perspective. A well-crafted CV that reflects all three will set you apart.

AWS Executive provides Global Executive Search & Leadership Recruitment for Charities, Non-Profits, NGOs, and Purpose-Led Organisations.

Please get in touch with me directly if you’d like to discuss executive search or leadership recruitment:
📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.awsexecutive.com