Non-Executive Board Member
What we are looking for
Through a detailed assessment of the work we do and the skills at the board level, we have realised an opportunity to expand and complement our expertise.
We are currently searching for 2 Non-Executive Directors who share our vision and values and are willing to support us in our mission. Our doors are open to individuals who can provide valuable insights, and constructive challenges, and bring access to national and international networks.
To ensure a more diverse and inclusive Board of Directors for Real Ideas, we have recognised the importance of striking a balance between individuals with the right skills and attributes and candidates from diverse backgrounds who can also bring relevant lived experiences. Being on a board before is not a prerequisite to joining the team.
Through a detailed assessment, we have reached a consensus on the necessary skills gaps within our Board.
Here are some initial focus areas we’ve identified for recruiting new Board members:
- Transformation of Historic Buildings and Local Community Enterprises: Board members with strategic knowledge and experience in transforming historic buildings and creating community-centric enterprises will play a vital role in expanding our reach and impact within local communities.
- Environmental expertise: Board members with commercially minded environmental expertise and experience particularly related to historic buildings, journey to Net Zero and “greening” local communities.
- Insights into Higher Education and Educational Models: We recognise the importance of higher education and diverse educational models on a national level. Board members with policy insights in this area can help us shape our Business Units better to serve the needs of young learners and aspiring entrepreneurs.
- National and International Perspectives on Immersive Technologies: To remain at the forefront of Immersive technology we are seeking individuals who bring national and international perspectives. Their diverse experiences will enrich our discussions and decision-making
- Experienced, large-scale people and change management from other sectors: Real Ideas is a people-based business, employing around 100 people through a variety of permanent and casual contracts. We support our staff to thrive, be productive and develop and are interested in new perspectives and ways to continually improve.
Why join Real Ideas as a Non-Executive Director?
Influence and Impact: By joining the Real Ideas Board of Directors, individuals can directly influence the organisation’s strategies, decisions, and direction. They can help shape the future of Real Ideas and make a meaningful impact on its mission and goals.
Networking and Connections: Serving on the Board of Directors provides an exceptional platform for expanding your professional network. Board members have the chance to connect and collaborate with other influential individuals, including fellow board members, executives, and professionals from various industries, fostering valuable relationships and opening doors to new opportunities.
Insight & Development: Joining the Board of Directors offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, gaining valuable insight, and enhancing your decision-making, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Contributing to Real Ideas’ Mission: Real Ideas is renowned for its impactful work and commitment to positive social change. By joining the Board of Directors, you can align yourself with an organisation dedicated to diversity, inclusion, and innovation. They become part of a collective effort to drive meaningful transformations and contribute to important causes.
Expertise and Experience Sharing: Board members of Real Ideas can share their expertise, knowledge, and experiences to benefit Real Ideas’ mission. Their diverse perspectives and insights can help inform and shape Real Ideas’ strategies, development, and operational effectiveness. By lending their skills, you can contribute to the success and growth of Real Ideas.
Application Process
Before applying, please click here to view the full board recruitment pack.
Before you complete the application form, you might like to talk to someone informally. Please contact Lindsey Hall (Lindsey.Hall@realideas.org / 07796 957108) to arrange a conversation.
How to Apply
As part of the application form, we’ll ask you to explain why you’re interested in our vision and values as well as what you bring that matches our recruitment priorities.
We recognise that a written format isn’t always the best way for candidates to tell their story so we’re trying to find ways of making the process more inclusive. Please choose how to apply – you can upload a word document, video or audio file.
We also ask that you complete our Inclusion Monitoring Form. A link for this will appear once you have submitted your application.
Click here to apply for this vacancy
Expressions of Interest from ex-offenders are welcomed and will be considered on their merit. Convictions that are irrelevant to the role will not be taken into account. You are still required to disclose any convictions, which are not ‘spent’ by virtue of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
We will not ask for this type of data unless you have been selected for interview.
Please be advised that relevant roles require registration with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). DBS helps us make safer recruitment decisions; checks are carried out to ensure that we are recruiting suitable people into our organisation.
Should you require Board recruitment details in a different format, please contact hr@realideas.org.
If you would like further support in filling out your application, please contact Naomi.Walsh@realideas.org.
* Why do we ask you to fill in the Real Ideas Inclusion Monitoring Form?
We know that our work is strengthened and improved with greater diversity represented in all that we do. We therefore monitor diversity to assess whether we are achieving this aim.
We believe that valuing diversity sits at the heart of positive social change and that we need to be inclusive to make change real and lasting.
Real Ideas values diversity and inclusion, promoting a collaborative workplace where unique differences, experiences, knowledge, innovation, expression, and talent contribute to our culture, reputation, and success.