Vacancy: Trustee (Human Resources)

About GNDR

We are the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), the largest global network of organisations committed to working together to improve the lives of people affected by disasters worldwide. Since being established in 2007, we have grown into a network of over 2,000 member organisations across 130+ countries, representing millions of people on the frontlines of hazards, climate change and mass displacement. Through transformative, evidence-led programming and powerful advocacy, we are driving climate action and disaster resilience alongside our members across the globe.

About the role

With a trustee nearing the end of their term, we are now recruiting a new trustee to join our Board at an exciting moment as we launch our 2026–2030 global strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and support effective governance
• Ensure compliance with employment law and provide advice on HR best practice
• Support and challenge the Executive Director and Senior Leadership Team
• Champion equity, inclusion, localisation, and community‑led action
• Act as an ambassador for GNDR’s mission and values

What we’re looking for

We are looking for an individual who can bring strategic insight, sound judgement, and a commitment to equity and localisation. While all trustees share collective responsibility for GNDR’s governance, we are specifically looking for professional expertise in Human Resources (e.g., people & culture, organisational development, HR policy)

All trustees are expected to uphold the following core criteria:

• Commitment to GNDR’s mission, values, and global network
• Strategic thinking, independent judgement, and collaborative working
• Strong communication skills and willingness to contribute actively
• Understanding of (or willingness to learn about) the responsibilities of charity trusteeship

Please refer to the full trustee recruitment pack below.

What you’ll gain as a trustee

• A full induction and ongoing training
• Opportunities to shape strategy and influence a dynamic global network
• Experience in governance and leadership
• The chance to contribute to innovative, community‑led resilience work
• Connections with professionals and civil society leaders worldwide
• Personal fulfilment from contributing to a mission that matters

Representation and eligibility

We are particularly keen to hear from individuals who bring:

• Lived experience of disaster risk, climate impacts, marginalisation, or community‑led resilience
• Experience supporting or being part of communities most at risk
• Perspectives from regions or groups under‑represented in global governance spaces

Trustees must be eligible under UK charity law to serve as charity trustees and company directors.

Terms of office

• Voluntary, unpaid role with all reasonable expenses reimbursed
• Three year term, renewable by Board agreement
• Commitment to approx. six days per year, plus preparation time, including quarterly board meetings, global board meetings, training, and occasional events
• Trustee indemnity insurance provided

How to apply

Please submit an up-to-date copy of your CV (max. two A4 pages) and a cover letter (max. one A4 page) outlining skills and experience relevant to the role by email to HR[at]gndr.org. Please include in the subject of the email, the following: “Application for the trustee role”.

Please note: we are unable to accept incomplete applications. 

The recruitment process will include an initial assessment and shortlisting stage, followed by an interview comprising a series of panel questions with our Executive Director and other members of the Board of Trustees.

If you have any questions or need to discuss any adjustments to any aspects of the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team at HR[at]gndr.org.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

We are dedicated to creating a team that embodies the rich diversity of communities we serve. Our commitment lies in cultivating an inclusive environment, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented ethnicities, nationalities, socioeconomic circumstances, LGBTQIA+ and disabled people. We celebrate the unique experiences and perspectives that each candidate brings and are dedicated to fair and equitable opportunities for all.

We’re committed to making our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible for individuals of all needs and abilities. If you require any adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please contact us at hr[at]gndr.org.

Find out more about our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.