Retail Trustee – RSPCA South London
About the Role
We are seeking a Trustee with strong retail expertise to support and grow our most important income stream—our retail portfolio. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply your commercial insight to a meaningful cause, helping to maximise profitability while ensuring our shops continue to serve and engage the local community.
As a Trustee, you will play a key strategic leadership role, shaping the future of our retail operations and supporting sustainable growth. Your expertise will directly contribute to funding vital animal welfare services and enabling life-saving work.
We welcome individuals who bring energy, commitment, and fresh perspectives, and who will help broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic oversight and guidance on retail operations to drive income growth and operational efficiency
- Support the development and approval of retail strategies, policies, and business plans
- Monitor financial performance, budgets, and key performance indicators across retail activities
- Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and improved customer experience
- Ensure effective risk management within retail operations
- Work collaboratively with the Branch Manager and shop teams to improve performance and respond to local market trends
- Contribute to Board discussions, offering constructive challenge and independent judgement
- Promote the charity’s mission, values, and reputation through your networks and expertise
We are looking for a Trustee who is willing to provide hands on leadership for the charity’s retail activity including actively working with branch manager & shop teams to identify income opportunities and risks, respond to local market trends, and improve operational performance and stakeholder relationships.
Retail-Specific Skills & Experience
- Retail expertise: Proven experience in retail operations, management, or finance Commercial awareness: Strong understanding of the retail landscape (e.g. fashion, homewares, or charity retail), including customer experience and local market dynamics
- Financial acumen: Ability to interpret financial data and oversee the financial health of retail activities
- Strategic thinking: Experience identifying opportunities, assessing risks, and shaping long-term plans
- Communication skills: Ability to engage effectively with Board members, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
Experience in charity retail is desirable but not essential.
General Trustee Responsibilities
- Support and uphold the charity’s purpose, vision, and values
- Ensure effective governance, compliance, and administration
- Oversee financial planning, reporting, and accountability
- Review and approve financial statements
- Monitor organisational performance and risk management
- Provide support and constructive challenge to the Branch Manager
- Stay informed about changes in the operating environment
- Act with integrity, independence, and in the best interests of the charity
About You
We are looking for individuals who:
- Bring enthusiasm, commitment, and a collaborative mindset
- Can think strategically and exercise sound, independent judgement
- Communicate clearly and contribute actively to Board discussions
- Are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion
- Are motivated by our mission to improve animal welfare
- Are willing to take on the responsibilities and legal duties of a Trustee
You do not need prior governance experience—we provide full induction and training. While familiarity with South London and willingness to engage in local activities is beneficial, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute valuable expertise.
What Difference Will You Make?
RSPCA branches operate locally, delivering vital animal welfare services within their communities. As a Trustee, you will help ensure RSPCA South London is well-governed, financially sustainable, and strategically focused. Your contribution will directly support our ability to care for animals in need. By strengthening our retail income, you will help unlock more resources to deliver essential services and improve animal welfare outcomes across our region. Trustees share collective responsibility, working together to guide and support the organisation’s success.
How to Apply:
If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!
We hope you are interested in volunteering for the South London Branch.
For more information and to apply please email rachel.armstrong@rspcasouthlondon.org.uk
Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.
Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and depending on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.