How to Create a Trustee/NED Profile to Complement Your CV

A strong CV alone may not be enough to secure a Trustee or Non-Executive Director (NED) role. Many organisations now expect professionals to create a Trustee/NED Profile –  a concise summary that highlights your experience, skills and motivations for joining a board.

Why You Need a Trustee/NED Profile

Your Trustee/NED profile is a one-page introduction that provides boards with a clear understanding of your governance experience, leadership strengths, and commitment to their mission. It serves as a valuable tool in various scenarios.

For board applications, some organisations request a summary before reviewing a full CV, making a well-structured profile essential in securing opportunities. It is also useful for networking and offers a clear and concise way to present your experience when engaging with recruiters and trustees.

A strong profile enhances your LinkedIn visibility, strengthening your online presence and positioning you for governance roles.

How to Create a Strong Profile

A well-crafted Trustee/NED profile is a crucial tool for securing governance roles. It provides boards with a clear snapshot of your leadership experience, governance expertise, and commitment to social impact.

Here’s how to structure an effective profile that captures attention…

Professional Summary

Begin with a concise overview of your governance experience and leadership skills, highlighting your strategic influence rather than focusing solely on technical abilities.

💡 Example:

“A senior finance professional with 20+ years’ experience in corporate governance, risk management, and financial strategy. As CFO of a leading social enterprise, I provide strategic oversight and ensure financial sustainability. Passionate about supporting organisations that drive social impact.”

🔹 Tip: Emphasise strategic leadership, governance, and mission alignment over operational or technical skills.

Board & Governance Experience

Detail your trustee or NED roles, highlighting your key contributions and impact, and if you’re new to governance, showcase advisory roles, committee involvement, or relevant leadership experience.

💡 Example:

Trustee, XYZ Foundation (2021–Present)

• Lead finance and audit committee, overseeing governance and risk management
• Provide strategic oversight for a £5m annual budget
• Support CEO in income diversification strategies

🔹 Tip: If this is your first trustee role, highlight strategic decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and advisory experience to demonstrate your governance potential.

Key Skills & Expertise

Trustees are valued for their ability to provide oversight, ask the right questions, and support long-term strategy; therefore, we advise that you showcase skills relevant to governance, such as:

• Strategic planning & vision
• Financial oversight & risk management
• Governance & compliance
• Fundraising & income generation
• ESG & digital transformation

💡 Example:

• Corporate governance & compliance
• Financial sustainability & risk oversight
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

🔹 Tip: Many charities seek trustees with expertise in digital, ESG, or fundraising, as these areas are in high demand.

Personal Motivation & Sector Alignment

Boards want trustees who are genuinely committed to their mission, so you should explain why you want to be a trustee and how your values align with the organisation’s cause.

💡 Example:

“Passionate about education and social mobility, I seek a trustee role where I can contribute financial expertise to support sustainable growth.”

🔹 Tip: Be specific – mention the sectors, causes, or missions that resonate with you.

Contact Information

End with your name, email, and LinkedIn profile to make it easy for organisations and recruiters to reach you:

📌 John Smith
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

🔹 Tip: Ensure your LinkedIn profile aligns with your Trustee/NED profile and reflects your governance aspirations.

How a Trustee/NED Profile Differs from a Traditional CV

🔹 Tip: Your Trustee/NED profile should complement, not duplicate, your CV, therefore, it’s important to focus on strategic contributions rather than operational details.

How Charity Recruit Can Help

If you’re looking to step into a Trustee or NED role, having the right governance experience and leadership skills is essential. At Charity Recruit, we specialise in connecting professionals with charities seeking exceptional board members.

We work with organisations across the not-for-profit sector to identify skilled trustees and non-executives who can provide strategic oversight and leadership. Whether you’re an experienced board member or new to governance, we can help you find the right opportunity.