Applying for a charity board role requires a unique approach compared to Executive roles. Whilst there should be the same focus on highlighting relevant skills and experience and a professional tone, the Statement should be more values-based, reflecting your passion and resonance with the cause and your desire to support at the strategic Board level.
Below is a guide including tips and a suggested structure to help you present yourself in the best possible light.
Top Tips for writing a cover letter for a charity board role:
1. Show your passion for the charity
The board will want to know what really interests you about the charity’s work, mission and values so you should have this front and centre of your statement. If you are comfortable to share, perhaps you have a personal connection or affinity to their work which drives your application.
2. Do your research
In order to convey your passion for the charity, it’s important to have done your research. Their website is a good starting point as well as the Charity Commission website where their Annual Accounts should be available for perusal. This will equip you with an understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced and how your skills and experience can support this.
3. Showcase governance experience
It is always great to demonstrate your governance experience whether that’s highlighting your previous charity Board role/s or, if this is a first Board role, thinking about any experience you have of working with or reporting into Boards, school governor positions or board experience within commercial organisations.
4. Understanding the role of the Board
The Board will be keen to see within your application, even if it’s a first Board role, that you understand the difference between this and an Executive role with its more strategic, high-level nature. The Charity Commission’s Guide here is a great starter for your understanding.
5. Think about your skills and experience within context of the charity
How might you leverage and utilise your skills and experience within the context of that charity, perhaps considering their size and level of resource available.
6. Time commitment
It is great to highlight that you have read and understood what the time commitment is likely to be. If you have the support of your line manager or volunteer days to use, great to mention this
7. Be concise
Unless otherwise stated, a Statement should be no longer than 1000 words so roughly 2 pages.
8. Professional Tone
Maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the letter.
9. Proofread
Ensure your letter is free from grammatical and spelling errors. A well-polished letter reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
Suggested structure for your cover letter:
Header
- Your name
- Address
- Contact detail
- Date
- Dear (Chair of the Board),
Introduction (2-3 lines):
- Briefly introduce yourself
- Mention the role you are applying for
- Explain how you found out about the position
Why are you interested in this organisation? (1 paragraph)
- Explain your passion for the charity’s mission and values.
- If you feel comfortable, share any personal connection or experience with the cause.
- Highlight your knowledge of the charity’s work and impact.
What skills/experience will you bring? (1-2 paragraphs)
- Discuss what you can contribute to the organisation, thinking about the particular skills/experience they are looking for.
- Outline how your skills and experience align with the charity’s needs.
Why a Board role? (1 paragraph)
- Mention any previous board experience or governance skills.
- Discuss how the time commitment would work for you.
Conclusion
- Reiterate your interest in the charity.
- Mention your availability for the advertised interview dates.
Closing
- Use a professional closing i.e. Best regards or Kind regards.
- Your name.
