Did you know there are nearly one million trustees across the UK? Yet for many ambitious professionals, charity boardrooms still feel out of reach – seemingly reserved for senior executives with decades of corporate experience.
At Rooted Finance, we’re rewriting that script.
We believe that strong governance requires diverse perspectives, fresh ideas, and people who bring real community insight into strategic decision-making. Whether you’re a young person looking for your first seat at the governance table or an organised professional seeking a pathway into Non-Executive Director (NED) and Trustee roles, we have two unique entry points to kickstart your boardroom journey.
Our new board opportunities include two roles:
Board Apprentice
For emerging leaders and underrepresented voices seeking their first board-level exposure. This structured, educational role gives you full boardroom exposure as a non-voting observer – meaning you get high-level governance experience without carrying legal or statutory liability.
- Paid to Learn: Receive a £2,000 annual educational bursary plus 100% reimbursement for travel, childcare, and access expenses.
- 1:1 Mentorship: Get paired with an experienced Trustee to guide you through board papers and debrief every meeting.
- No Prior Board Experience Needed:We care about your passion, curiosity, and experience – not a fancy CV.
Board Secretary
For detail-oriented professionals wanting practical charity governance and leadership experience. Working closely with the CEO, Chair, and Trustees, this Non-Trustee role is the ultimate steppingstone toward taking on full Trustee or NED positions in the future.
- Direct Board-Level Exposure: Observe board dynamics, financial oversight, and regulatory compliance in an FCA-regulated charity.
- Master Best Practices: Gain hands-on understanding of board cycles and the UK Charity Governance Code.
- CV-Boosting Experience: Build executive-level stakeholder management skills while supporting an organisation actively combating debt and financial inequality in our communities.
Ready to Make an Impact?
Both roles offer a supportive, practical, and highly rewarding way to grow your career and shape the future of community finance.
To apply, please submit the following:
Board Apprentice Role
- A short Statement of Interest (maximum 1 page or a 3-minute video/audio note) explaining why you are interested in charity governance and what you hope to learn from the Board Apprentice role at Rooted Finance.
- A brief summary of your background, community involvement, or CV (where available).
- Email recruitment@rootedfinance.org.uk with the subject stating ‘Board Apprentice Role Application’
- Full Job Description
Board Secretary Role
- A 1-page Statement of Interest and CV which highlights your professional background.
- Email this to recruitment@rootedfinance.org.uk with the subject stating ‘Board Secretary Role Application’
- Full Job Description
Deadlines for both applications are 10th February 2027.