For more than 60 years, British Heart Foundation (BHF) has been at the forefront of cutting-edge research to create a world where everyone has a healthier heart for longer. Despite the progress we’ve made, our work has never been more needed; heart and circulatory diseases remain the biggest killers globally, with millions of people living with these conditions today in the United Kingdom alone.
Our lifesaving work is primarily advanced through long-term investment in medical research, and we currently have over £460 million of BHF-funded research underway, funding more than 700 active research projects. A leading independent funder of research into heart and circulatory diseases, we are the UK’s largest charity retailer with around 650 stores, an employee base of over 4,000, supported by a further 20,000 volunteers.
We are seeking an exceptional individual to join our Board of Trustees. A scientist or clinician with broad knowledge and senior leadership experience you’ll act as a Medical Trustee and support our Chief Executive and Chief Medical & Scientific Officer (CSMO) in enhancing the work of BHF and play a key role contributing to functions of the Board and BHF’s overall governance.
For this role we are seeking candidates with expertise in AI, data science or advanced analytics. You’ll understand how these can support advances in health, medical research and patient outcomes through better insight, innovation and evidence-led decision-making.
Successful candidates will need to demonstrate:
- Highly effective leadership skills at board (or equivalent) level in a large and complex organisation.
- Experience of high level strategic and business planning able to understand and shape BHF’s strategy and influence its implementation.
- A clear understanding of the role of a Trustee and knowledge of the principles of and current best practice in good governance.
- The necessary networks and contacts to assist BHF in achieving its objectives.
- A strong commitment to BHF’s aims, mission and values, and an understanding of the opportunities and challenges which we face.
- A commitment to inclusion and diversity.
If you feel you have the skills and experience that we need for this interesting and rewarding voluntary role we would be delighted to hear from you.
Interview process
First stage interviews will be held, via MS Teams, on 16th July. Successful candidates will then be invited to attend an in-person 2nd stage interview, at our London head office, on 31st July.
How to apply
Applications including a CV and supporting statement should be submitted to
[email protected]
Terms of appointment
- This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be met.
- Members are appointed for an initial three-year term, renewable with the expectation that members serve a maximum of two terms.
- The Board of Trustees meet on quarterly basis (in London, in person/online) with meetings generally lasting 4-5 hours duration.
- Total time commitment is on average 1-2 day per month.