Are you passionate about history, society, and making a difference? The Mass Observation Archive is looking for two dynamic, innovative, and dedicated younger trustees to join us!
What is a trustee?
‘Trustees are the volunteers who lead charities and decide how they are run. You may have heard them called board members or the board. Trusteeship is a great way of contributing to causes you care about and developing strategic and leadership skills at the same time.’ – Charity Commission
At MO the Board of Trustees guides the Mass Observation Archive in the delivery of their strategic vision. It ensures that the MOA fulfils all its statutory duties according to its registered charitable status and its own governance.
What do you do as a trustee?
Attend quarterly trustee meetings and contribute to discussions – three of these are online (90min) and we hold a longer face-to-face annual meeting in Spring at The Keep, Brighton & Hove where our collection is stored (reasonable travel expenses paid).
Support fundraising, outreach, and advocacy efforts.
Help us engage with younger and more diverse audiences and expand our reach.
Who are we looking for?
Age: 18-35 years old.
Passion: Enthusiastic about social history, community engagement, and cultural preservation.
Skills: Strong communication, strategic thinking, and a willingness to learn.
Additional interests and experience might include: social media management, documentary filmmaking, fundraising, digital resources (inc. impact of AI), working with sensitive data, administering arts projects (including creative responses to historic collections), mental health and well-being in an arts or heritage setting
Commitment: Capacity to read relevant paperwork and attend regular trustee meetings
Why Young Trustees?
‘There are many boards who champion diversity and are reaping the benefits of diversity of perspectives. However, when less than 3% of charity trustees are under 30, what is normal is not okay. Given this statistic, charity boards desperately need young people’s perspectives..’ – Young Trustees Movement
The decision to recruit Young Trustees was agreed by the current Board of Trustees. This decision has been made to diversify the make up of the board, as inspired by the Young Trustees movement, and seeks to broaden the experience and perspectives of the board.
Submit your application by email to:
Jane Harvell, Chair of Trustees
J.Harvell@sussex.ac.uk
Applications will be treated in strict confidence.
Timetable for recruitment
Closing date : 31st January 2025
Shortlisted candidates will be informed by 7th February 2025
Likely Interviews (at The Keep or online) on 19th February 2025
Find out more about being a Young Trustee here and more information about the trustees at Mass Observation here.