ODI Global Trustee

About ODI Global

ODI Global has been at the forefront of producing evidence, convening debate and promoting ideas to address global challenges for 63 years. We have been thought leaders, critical friends and policy advisers to governments, heads of state and international agencies, and agenda setters for global processes and changemakers. 

Established in 1960, ODI Global is a non-partisan, non-profit and evidence-driven think tank. With more than 230 staff and ODI Global Fellows in 30 countries globally, it exists to have real impact for those who need it most. ODI Global offers a distinctive mix of research, convening and communication power, which has made the organisation the leading think tank for humanitarian and international development issues in the UK for 63 years. As such, ODI Global works on a wide range of topics, across a variety of countries and regions: climate, environment and energy policy; conflict, risk and natural hazard-related disasters; economic development; development and public finance; governance, politics and justice; poverty, inequality and social policy; migration; women’s rights; digital transformation. 

Board Trustee

ODI Global is looking to appoint new Trustees to join the Board and to support the Senior Leadership Team in leading the organisation and setting a new course for ODI Global building on the reflections generated through research, think pieces and global convening. As a member of the Board of Trustees you will have an important role in protecting ODI Global’s reputation and ensuring that it is carrying out its charitable purpose. 

Please note that this is a voluntary, unremunerated position, although reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed. 

Key responsibilities

• Act in ODI Global’s best interest to ensure that the organisation complies with its Articles of Association, UK Charity Law, UK Company Law and any other relevant legislation or regulation. This includes safeguarding the charity’s assets, values and reputation as well as ensuring effective risk management; 
• Ensure that ODI Global’s activities further or support its purposes and that it benefits the public. Work with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to set and review ODI Global’s organisational direction and strategy, ensuring alignment with our values and that ODI Global achieves its goals and objectives as defined in its governing documents; 
• Provide support and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to ensure the delivery of ODI Global’s strategy, holding the Chief Executive to account by defining targets and evaluating ODI Global’s performance; 
• Ensure the effective management of ODI Global’s financial and human resources. Trustees help to ensure financial and operational viability by approving budgets, accounts, financial statements and financial reports. The Board of Trustees also contribute to the development and maintenance of an organisational culture which reflects ODI Global’s values and Code of Conduct, also ensuring we maintain the highest safeguarding standards in line with legislation, statutory guidance, and organisation policy; 
• Attend Board and committee meetings and contribute to key strategic debates within the organisation, as well as specific departments/teams and external initiatives; 
• Help to consistently improve and strengthen Board governance to maintain the highest standards in line with legislation, statutory guidance and best practice, and contribute actively to the Board’s role in shaping and reviewing key organisational policies; 
• Represent ODI Global at key events, support fundraising and development, and promote the organisation within personal and professional networks; 
• Attend ODI Global -led events and engage with staff across the organisation. Trustees should reflect at all times a commitment to ODI Global’s strategic ambitions, values, decolonisation agenda, policies and procedures. 

Specific Expertise:

• Demonstrated expertise and experience in finance or economics to provide strategic insights and guidance.
• Strong knowledge and experience in human resources to support and advise on organisational development, preferably based in the UK.
• Familiarity with the UK charity landscape, with a preference for those who have worked within or alongside charitable organisations 

Person specification: 

• Trustees will be at different stages of their careers but all will have experience of facets of leadership and management that adds value to our collective discussions. 

The post is for a term of 3 years, and may be extended for a maximum of two further terms. For further information about the role, please consult the appointment brief 

How to apply

If you are interested in becoming a Trustee , please write by Friday 13^th September 2024  to recruitment@odi.org via the 'apply' button above with:

• Your CV
• A personal statement setting out your motivation in applying for the role.

Expressions of interests are reviewed by our Nominations and Board Effectiveness Committee and feedback will be provided within 3 weeks of application. If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview with the Committee.