NEWS – Trustee Opportunity – Education, Training & Safeguarding

We’re currently seeking a new Trustee with expertise in education, training and inclusive learning to help shape the future of our organisation and the communities we serve across Greater Manchester.

This is an exciting time to join us. We are in the final stages of refreshing our strategy through to 2035, positioning Groundwork to play an even greater role in supporting people, places and communities across our city region, particularly those facing disadvantage, exclusion and inequality.

We are looking for individuals who share our values, believe in the power of opportunity, and want to use their experience to make a meaningful difference.

Click the image below to view the

Who We’re Looking For

We are particularly interested in hearing from experienced education professionals who are passionate about inclusive learning and want to support a smaller, non-traditional learning provider to continuously improve and grow.

We would especially welcome applicants with:

  • Senior leadership experience within education, skills or training provision
  • Experience working with learners aged 16+
  • Strong knowledge of inclusive learning and supporting progression for all learners
  • Understanding of Ofsted frameworks and experience supporting or leading inspections at a senior level
  • Experience using learner and education performance data to drive improvement
  • Strategic safeguarding leadership experience within an educational setting
  • A collaborative approach and the ability to work constructively with senior leaders while respecting operational boundaries

The successful candidate should be willing to join our Teaching, Learning & Safeguarding Committee.

Alongside professional expertise, we are also looking for people who bring:

  • A passion for our cause and values
  • Strong strategic thinking and evidence-based decision making
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • A commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racist practice
  • An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, good governance

We are particularly keen to hear from people with lived experience of the issues and communities we support.

Previous trustee experience is not essential. We can offer mentoring and training to help you succeed in the role.

The Role of a Trustee

As a Trustee, you will help provide strategic leadership, oversight and governance for Groundwork Greater Manchester. Trustees are both charity trustees and company directors, sharing collective responsibility for ensuring the organisation operates effectively, ethically and in line with its charitable objectives.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Supporting strategic planning and monitoring delivery of organisational goals
  • Ensuring sound financial oversight and risk management
  • Supporting safe and effective operations across the charity
  • Ensuring strong safeguarding, governance and compliance arrangements
  • Using your professional expertise to support effective decision making
  • Acting at all times in the best interests of GGM, its beneficiaries and future beneficiaries

Time Commitment

We estimate trustees commit approximately 50 – 60 hours per year, including:

  • Four face-to-face Board meetings annually
  • Participation in a sub-committee (typically meeting online four times per year)
  • Preparation for meetings and review of Board papers
  • Occasional involvement in task groups, recruitment panels and external events
  • Visits to projects and activities across Greater Manchester

Why Join Groundwork?

Groundwork Greater Manchester is a unique organisation filled with people who care deeply about creating positive change.

By joining our Board, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Help shape the future of education, skills and employment support in Greater Manchester
  • Influence a strategy that will guide our work through to 2035
  • Support communities facing inequality and exclusion
  • Contribute your expertise to an organisation committed to social and environmental impact
  • Work alongside passionate trustees, staff and partners dedicated to making a difference

We believe there are exciting times ahead for Greater Manchester and an impactful role for Groundwork within it.

If you believe you have the skills, attributes and experiences we’re looking for, we would love to hear from you.

Please send a CV or profile (2 sides A4 max) together with a short statement setting out:

  • Why you want to become a trustee of Groundwork Greater Manchester now (max 250 words)
  • How your unique skills and experience make you a brilliant candidate for the role (max 500 words)
  • Why our vision, mission and values are important to you (max 300 words)

Send this to: GMrecruitment@groundwork.org.uk