Help shape the direction of YHA
Becoming a Trustee is hugely enjoyable and rewarding. Not least, because it comes with the opportunity to help shape the direction of YHA in line with our values. It also offers the chance to meet and work with people outside of your sector or daily experience.
Our 15 Trustees hold overall legal responsibility for the charity. The Board is responsible for setting and overseeing the implementation of our strategy and for guiding the work of the charity in relation to areas such as finance, risk management, buildings and property, hospitality, and organisational performance. The varied backgrounds of our Board allow for rich discussions, resulting in each Board member making valuable contributions.
This large national charity has access for all at its very heart. As a member of the Board, you will join an inclusive culture where different points of view are welcome and respected; where decisions are reached in a trusting, mutually respectful environment and healthy debate is part of the process.
Who we’re looking for
We seek people with the skills and experience to guide and challenge the strategic direction of the whole organisation. Each year, we review the areas of expertise we seek to add to our Board. This year, we are particularly looking for candidates who can demonstrate one or more of the following desirable attributes:
- Experience in the hospitality, leisure, commercial or tourism sectors — particularly if you have helped shape or manage the organisation’s approach
- Strategic property experience gained within a multi-site environment inclusive of historic, residential, commercial, industrial or land real estate
- An understanding of Welsh policy and Welsh agenda, e.g. experience of Welsh government or public administration, Welsh grant giving, tourism/rural development in Wales
You don’t need to have all these desirable attributes to apply. We welcome applications from candidates who have relevant work and life experiences and have the passion to make a difference with YHA.
Become a Trustee
We have now completed our recruitment process for the Board of Trustees for 2023/24.
To express an interest in the 2024/25 application pack and process please email [email protected] where your contact details will remain on file, and you will be notified once we commence the process next time.
What becoming a Trustee means
Our charitable objects
To help all, especially young people of limited means, to a greater knowledge, love and care of the countryside, and appreciation of the cultural values of towns and cities, particularly by providing youth hostels or other accommodation for them in their travels, and thus to promote their health, recreation and education.
What’s involved
Becoming a Trustee is a serious undertaking but we believe it is hugely rewarding.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the strategy and guiding the work of the organisation in relation to areas such as finance, capital strategy, risk management, property, hospitality and organisational performance.
Board members must be able to work collaboratively, listen to other points of view and offer constructive challenge and criticism.
Your commitment
Trustees are expected to virtually attend the AGM and two in person meetings at YHA hostels in England and Wales, plus two or three other virtual meetings throughout the year on Saturday mornings.
You are also expected to contribute in other ways: for example, as a member of one of the Board sub-committees and occasionally representing YHA at official functions.
New Trustees will also need to commit to our Trustee induction programme which includes online sessions and a half-day face-to-face session in the network with our operations and hostel managers.
Here’s what some of our current Trustees had to say:
Have a question?
If you have any questions or need any assistance with your application, please email [email protected]