Non-Executive Director (Board Member)

Non-Executive Director (Board Member)

The Association of Illustrators Closing date: Tue, 12 May 2026

Artform: Visual arts
Role: Creative
Contract: Permanent
UK-wide
  • Part time
  • Unpaid

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

The AOI is looking for up to two non-executive directors to join our board. Use your skills and networks to make a genuine difference to the world of illustration and animation working with a talented organisation, making a great impact today and with the opportunity to make a bigger impact tomorrow

Job Description

Following the appointment on new chair last year, we are now on the hunt for up to two non-executive directions to help shape and develop our strategy.

The role of the board is to support the strategic vision and leadership of The AOI and to ensure we fulfil our mission. Non-executive directors are key ambassadors of the AOI, promoting our work, helping to ensure best practice and contribute to the good governance of the organisation. We anticipate this taking approximately half a day per month of time.

We are particularly keen to strengthen our Board in the following areas:

Finance - we are seeking to appoint a Treasurer who has confidence with financial oversight, budgeting and reporting

Fundraising & development - experience generating income, building partnerships or supporting organisational growth

Marketing & communication - and understanding of stakeholder relationships

Organisational development & business growth - supporting through innovation and technology

The role of non-executive director is a voluntary unpaid one. We are happy to pay travel expenses for those travelling from outside London and are committed to making meeting accessible for all trustees.

Job Requirements

- Experience contributing to strategy, leadership or decision-making through operating within a Board or in a senior leadership capacity in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation
- An interest in how organisations are governed and the role a Board can play in supporting them effectively
- A connection to, or strong interest in, the illustration or wider creative sector
- An understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing creative professionals
- Demonstrable experience of building and sustaining relationships with key stakeholders and colleagues to achieve organisational objectives
- A proven track record of sound judgement and effective decision making
- A history of impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences
- A track record of commitment to equality and diversity
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort and to open your networks
- Good, independent judgement and strategic vision

Job Responsibilities

The role of the board is to support the strategic vision and leadership of the AOI and to ensure we fulfil our mission. Non-executive directors are key ambassadors of the AOI, promoting our work, helping to ensure best practice and contribute to the good governance of the organisation.

As a Board Director, you will act in the best interests of the AOI and its members, contributing to strategic decision-making, ensuring strong governance, and supporting the organisation's long-term sustainability and relevance.

Expectations of non-executive directors:
- Attendance at 4 x 2-hour board meetings, per year in person in London
- Attendance at Annual General Meeting every May (online)
- Pre-reading of board papers in advance of meetings
- Share AOI announcements, recruitment roles/opportunities and events with your own networks
- Be an active ambassador for the AOI and our work whenever possible
- Introduce AOI to your networks with a particular focus on fundraising and sponsorship

Useful Links

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Non-Executive Director (Board Member)
  • Salary: Unpaid
  • Hours: Part time
  • Artform: Visual arts
  • Role: Creative
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Closing date: Tue, 12 May 2026
  • Location: UK-wide

How to Apply

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experience and perspectives.

Please apply by sending the following to [email protected]:

1. A letter of interest setting out why you wish to join our Board and the skills and experience you can provide (no more than two pages)
2. An up-to-date CV

Successful applicants will be invited to interview on Thursday 21st May with a view to taking up the position by June 2025.

Please note our next board meeting is on Monday 8 June from 2 - 4pm in Somerset House, London