Board member

Under the leadership of Dame Anne Owers, we are looking for new members to build the capacity and diversity of our Board.

The Howard League is a charity, as well as a company limited by guarantee; Board members are trustees of the charity and directors of the company.

Each member of the Board brings their own expertise, experience and skill-set to the work of the Howard League. While it is important that you have some understanding of, or commitment to, criminal justice reform, we are keen to recruit people who bring a wide range of experiences (personal and professional) and different perspectives. This is a critical time for criminal justice policy, and for charities in the sector. Board members are expected to engage actively and constructively in the governance of the charity and in support of the staff.

In this recruitment round, we are particularly looking for people who have:

a) Senior judicial experience, particularly in criminal and/or public law.

b) University academic experience, in criminology, criminal law, social policy or a relevant area.

c) Experience of business or the City, with networks which might be suited to supporting the work of the Howard League.

d) Experience in governance, HR and/or operations in education, health or another public sector.

e) Legal experience, as a barrister, solicitor or chartered legal executive, in criminal and/or public law.

People with personal or relevant professional experience of the prison system are encouraged to apply.

Duties

The duties of a Board member include:

•  helping set the Howard League’s strategic direction in line with our governing documents, and keeping it under constant and constructive critical review.
•  bringing fresh and independent thinking, whilst being a team player and supporting a culture of collective responsibility for Board decisions.
•  safeguarding the good name and values of the Howard League.
•  ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the Howard League, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
•  ensuring the financial stability of the Howard League and the proper investment of the organisation’s funds.
•  supporting the fundraising activities of the organisation.
•  advising on the commissioning of specialist expertise to support and enhance the Howard League’s mission, including legal services, auditors, investment managers, and as required.
•  working with the Chief Executive, Senior Management Team and Board, in person and through your networks, to enhance the Howard League’s profile and promote our achievements, including appearing on platforms to represent and champion our work.

It is expected that Board members will:

•  attend meetings (usually four or five per annum) and read papers in advance of meetings.
•  actively participate sub-committees, such as the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, which may be established for specific purposes, as appropriate.
•  participate in other tasks as they arise from time to time, such as interviewing for senior staff or helping with fundraising.
•  ensure that they are informed about the activities of the Howard League and wider issues which affect its work.
•  practise the highest standards of governance, as set out in Charity Commission Guidance.

Person specification

•  A commitment to the vision of the Howard League and enthusiasm for our activities.
•  A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
•  An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship (summarised here).
•  Experience of governance within the commercial, public or charitable sectors.
•  Readiness to offer supportive, inquisitive and challenging contributions to the Board, bringing distinctive perspectives, experience and expertise to discussions and decision-making.
•  Highest standards of integrity, impartiality, objectivity and transparency.
•  An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
•  Commitment to equality, diversity, and the safeguarding of marginalised and vulnerable groups.

To apply

Please send a CV and covering letter to Anne Owers, Chair, Board of Trustees, at: [email protected]

Members of the Board are available for a conversation if you would like further information.

The closing date is Monday 5 October 2026, at 5pm.