Trustee – Role Description

Our trustees play a vital role in ensuring that the Association for Learning Technology (ALT) achieves its charitable objectives. They oversee the management, governance and administration of the charity. They also ensure that ALT has a clear strategy and that our activities are in line with our vision and values. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable ALT to grow and thrive, and through this, support our members. Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

The general duties as a trustee of ALT are to:

• Support and provide advice on ALT’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee ALT’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Review and approve ALT’s financial statements.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Keep abreast of changes in ALT’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of ALT’s own governance.
• Attend Board meetings and be adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgement, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect ALT’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of ALT’s objectives, aims and reputation by applying their skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.
• Led by the Chair, appoint the Chief Executive Officer and hold the CEO accountable for the performance of the organisation.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has expertise.  Additionally, each ALT trustee is asked to lead on a named portfolio of activity, working closely with members, relevant committees and the staff team. Portfolios options are discussed and agreed with trustees once in post.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board. You do not need previous governance experience, we will provide an induction and training.

Applicants for trustee roles must have been members of ALT of at least 12 months standing.

We are looking for people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences who can demonstrate:

• An interest in or understanding of the broad area of Learning Technology, including technology enhanced learning, online learning, distance learning, mobile learning, flexible learning, wearable technologies, simulation, learning environments, learning spaces, digital pedagogy, open educational practice, artificial intelligence and social media.
• Experience working with charities, not-for-profits or similar organisations.
• Experience of leadership, strategic development and/or decision making.
• Commitment to ALTs aims and values.
• Understanding of, and willingness to accept, the responsibilities and liabilities of a trustee and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively, strategically, objectively and exercise good, independent judgement.
• Effective communication skills, willingness to participate actively in discussions and collaborate.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

At ALT, equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are at the very heart of our values. Our Members come from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures and experiences and so do we. There is a lot of research that shows that marginalised groups are less likely to apply for a job if they do not meet 100% of the requirements. However, we value different experiences, skills and perspectives. We encourage you to apply for this role if you share the same values as us, even if you do not meet every requirement outlined in this advert.

Terms of appointment

Trustees are appointed for an initial three year term, with the opportunity to renew for one further term to a maximum of six years.

This is a voluntary position and unremunerated. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

Attendance at:

• three Board meetings annually, online for 3hrs.
• monthly forty-five minute online GPC meetings (optional).
• ALT’s Annual General Meeting, in person or online.
• occasional additional meetings, as needed.

• some ALT events throughout the year.