The Devon and Exeter Institution is an independent library and educational charity in the heart of Exeter, founded in 1813.  We welcome new members and visitors of all ages.

We are an innovative and go-ahead organisation often leading the way in the heritage sector and the cultural life of the City of Exeter.

Last year, we were awarded a major grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for our development project The Next Chapter, which is now taking place.

We have a committed board of trustees and a team of professional staff who have developed a strategic vision to ensure that:

  • Our outstanding heritage building and research collection is preserved and made fit for contemporary needs and context
  • We are leading as an educational charity by inspiring and engaging with people of all ages and abilities
  • We are financially resilient and enterprising with a growing membership
  • We have a strong employee and volunteer team which is well led and collaborative
  • We offer an authentic, special and unique member and visitor experience

We are now looking for a new trustee to strengthen our Board and to succeed our Treasurer, when they retire in October 2024.

Successful candidates will help to develop an important heritage institution which is increasingly reaching out to the community through learning and engagement, while providing a rich experience for its members. The Devon and Exeter Institution holds a wonderful historic reference library and art collection and is embarking on a strategic capital project to develop the building and to engage the wider community in an ongoing programme of events and activities.   As Exeter has recently become a UNESCO City of Literature, it is a fantastic time to get involved in DEI governance and help us sustain part of the cultural heritage of the city.

We have one vacant post to fill and we are looking for candidates who have experience in the following: 

  • Charity or corporate finance and/or accountancy

We welcome applications from people who have experience of being a trustee or those who are new to the role. The post is voluntary and you do not need to live in Devon and Exeter or be a current member of the Institution to apply.

There is a commitment to attend regular quarterly Board meetings and provide additional strategic or practical support if possible.    Additionally, trustees can both participate in a number of advisory groups, and there are appointments made annually by the Board of Trustees of: Chair of Trustees, Honorary Secretary and Honorary Treasurer. Typically trustees need to commit 4-8 hours per month, depending on their role.

Board meetings are held in person and using Zoom, so you don’t need to live or work in Devon to participate.

We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic candidates who are currently under-represented on our Board.

If you have experience and skills in the areas mentioned and would welcome an opportunity to join a progressive heritage organisation or to develop your governance skills, please send a copy of your CV with a short note of why you would like to join our team to [email protected].

If you would like an informal chat about the role please contact our Hon Secretary, Ruth O’Neale on 07958213754.

Suitable candidates have the opportunity to be co-opted to the board prior to standing for election at the annual AGM which is usually held in October.

Closing date: Friday 20th October 2023 / Interviews week commencing 30th October 2023