We firmly believe that diversity brings strength and that we benefit from a having a wide range of perspectives, skills and experience across our organisation. This applies to our board and is the reason why we have offered a Young Director position for over eight years. We hope our Young Directors benefit from an experience that helps them in their career though the development of new skills and relationships, and understanding of governance in the not-for-profit sector. However, we’re not entirely altruistic as we benefit from new and innovative ideas reflecting their interests and passions. But don’t just take our word for it; hear from our previous Young Director Matt Beveridge (University of Birmingham) on what the role meant to him.
 
For organisations wishing to appoint a young person to their board there is plenty of guidance out there. The Young Trustees Movement provides helpful information in this area and many other organisations in the region provide opportunities for young people on their boards and are happy to share their learning.
 
If you are passionate about changing the way people think and act so that we can build a better future for our businesses and communities in the West Midlands, why not apply to sit on our Board for a year as our Young Director? We’ll provide you with:

• New insights into how a small not-for-profit organisation works and experience of good practice in the board’s role to provide oversight and strategic advice.

• The opportunity to build your knowledge through presentations and discussions, and through collaboration at board meetings to provide advice to our organisation.

• The chance to be mentored by one of our board members.

The closing date for applications is 17:00 on Friday 29 July 2022 and full details including an application pack are available on our website.

Anna Bright, Chief Executive, on behalf of the team at SWM