About Us
The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is one of the oldest and most respected civil society organisations dedicated to the Commonwealth. For over 150 years, the RCS has championed values of democracy, human rights, good governance and sustainable development across the 58 member nations of the Commonwealth. Through education, equality and environment initiatives, and a global network of branches and partners, the RCS connects and empowers citizens – particularly young people – to shape a better shared future.
What We Are Looking For
The role of our Trustees is to help shape and oversee RCS’s strategy, ensuring the organisation can play a leading role in building a fairer world for Commonwealth citizens. At its heart, this means helping RCS to connect, convene and equip people to advance the values of the Commonwealth, while bringing your own skills, experience and perspective to support the organisation’s work and future direction.
Trustees are there to do more than provide formal oversight. We are looking for people who can take a broad view of the organisation, offer thoughtful challenge and support, and work collaboratively with fellow Board members and our talented staff team. Collectively, the Board plays an important role in helping RCS make good decisions, remain focused on its purpose, and increase the impact it can have across the Commonwealth.
To get the most out of being a Trustee of the RCS, we are looking for those who have a passion for our aims and can commit to the time and effort required. Our trustees need strategic vision, independent judgement, and an ability to work effectively and actively as part of an impactful, small but dedicated charitable organisation.
We are looking for someone who has considerable expertise in the below areas. A background in the Commonwealth is not required. We are especially keen to hear from people from a wide range of backgrounds.
Artists, Performers and Talent
We are looking for someone with significant experience of working directly with artists, performers and other high-profile talent, and who understands what it takes to secure and successfully engage leading performers.
You will understand the world in which performers operate, the relationships involved and the practicalities of securing their participation. You might, for example, be an agent, lawyer, talent manager, producer or senior professional who regularly works with performers and their representatives. We are looking for someone who can help RCS think ambitiously about the performers and talent it can attract, open up new relationships and strengthen existing ones.
Fundraising, Brand and Income Diversification
We are looking for someone with strong fundraising or income generation experience and a good understanding of how organisations build sustainable and diverse sources of support.
This experience could have been gained in a charity, commercial, cultural, membership or other purpose-led environment. You will understand the relationship between brand, proposition, partnerships and income generation. We would particularly value experience of developing new partnerships, reaching different audiences and broadening income beyond more traditional fundraising routes.
Media, Broadcast and Digital Engagement
We are looking for someone with senior-level experience in media and communications, with a particularly strong understanding of broadcast and social media and how the two increasingly work together.
This experience could have been gained in broadcasting, journalism, digital media, content, communications or a related environment. You will understand what makes a story interesting and how to make it work across different platforms. We are looking for someone who can help RCS make the most of significant moments and partnerships, extend its reach and strengthen its public voice across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Role Description
All trustees are involved in these:
- Active and committed Member of the Council to give input into the Society’s strategy and direction
- Management of finances of the Society
- Contribute to fundraising efforts
- Responsible for the governance of the Society
- Serve as a representative of a significant charitable institution
Terms and Conditions
Salary
This is a volunteer role and there is no salary. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed on submission of appropriate documentation.
Terms of Appointment
The initial term is four years. Council members are eligible for re-election at the expiry of that term, for one additional term.
Time Commitment
There are normally 8 Council meetings each year, in London and hybrid. There will be some additional duties as agreed with the Chair, and the opportunity to be involved in Committees and projects.