Chair and Trustee with Finance Expertise at South East Dance

What does the opportunity involve doing?

South East Dance is seeking a Chair of the Board of Trustees and a Trustee with Finance Expertise to join our dynamic Board.

As Chair, you will lead the Board, champion our mission, and work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to achieve strategic goals. You will guide Trustees’ involvement in decision-making, represent the organisation externally, and support advocacy and fundraising. This voluntary, unpaid role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills. The Chair will be based in the South East and commit approximately 12–15 days per year, including quarterly Board meetings, events, and key organisational activities.

As a Trustee with Finance Expertise, you will bring financial insight and governance oversight, serving on the Finance & Audit Sub-Committee to ensure robust financial management and compliance. We are looking for a certified ACCA or CIMA accountant with experience in scrutinising accounts and budgets, who is committed to our mission and values. This voluntary role requires around 8–10 days per year, including Board and Sub-Committee meetings and key organisational events.

Both roles offer the chance to shape dance in the South East, support creative communities, and gain valuable leadership and governance experience within an inclusive and inspiring arts charity.

What induction, training and support is offered?

All South East Dance Trustees, including the Chair and Trustee with Finance Expertise, receive a thorough induction to help them understand the organisation, its governance, and their responsibilities. This includes an introduction to our vision, mission, values, programmes, and strategic objectives, alongside guidance on charity law, financial oversight, and risk management. The Directors and existing Board members provide guidance and advice. We also provide support to meet access needs, enabling full participation in meetings, events, and activities, whether in person at The Dance Space or remotely. Regular briefings, updates, and opportunities to engage with staff, artists, and communities help Trustees stay informed, make effective decisions, and contribute meaningfully to South East Dance’s strategic development.

What skills or qualities are needed?

Trustees of South East Dance should bring strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to the organisation’s vision, mission, and values. They must understand and accept the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship and demonstrate integrity, accountability, and fairness. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential, alongside the ability to advocate for the organisation, build relationships, and represent South East Dance within and beyond the arts sector. Trustees should be proactive, collaborative, and able to work as part of a team, contributing their individual expertise to collective decision-making. For the Chair role, experience in organisational leadership, change management, and governance is important, while the Trustee with Finance Expertise should be a qualified accountant (ACCA or CIMA) with experience scrutinising financial statements, budgets, and risk. A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as environmental responsibility, is vital. Trustees should be able to devote sufficient time to attend meetings, engage with events, and provide oversight and guidance where needed. Previous experience in charity governance, arts or cultural organisations, or senior management is desirable but not essential; enthusiasm, commitment, and relevant skills are key.