As part of Trustees’ Week, we reached out to our Chair, Captain Andrew Cassels, to hear about his experience of becoming a trustee, his journey to becoming Chair of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), and what makes trusteeship such a rewarding role.
When people ask me what it is like to be a trustee, my answer is simple: very rewarding.
I spent my entire working career in the maritime shipping sector, serving at sea, working in ship management and contributing to maritime safety within a large corporation. Seven years before I retired, I decided I wanted to use some of that experience to help others and give something back to the industry that had given so much to me.
That decision led me to join MNWB as a trustee.
At the time, I knew very little about the maritime charity sector. What I did bring, however, was extensive experience in managing people, organisations and complex operations. I hoped those skills could make a positive contribution to the work of MNWB and the wider maritime welfare community.
Seven years later, I was asked to become Chair, succeeding several highly-respected individuals. It was both an honour and, if I am honest, a little daunting.
Using experience to make a difference
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a trustee is the opportunity to use your professional experience to support a cause you care about.
For me, that cause is seafarers and their families. Trusteeship provides an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way, helping charities achieve their objectives while ensuring they are well governed and able to deliver lasting impact.
After spending 43 years with a single corporation, becoming a trustee also opened the door to new experiences, perspectives and relationships. The trustees at MNWB come from a variety of backgrounds, including shipowners, maritime trade unions and charitable organisations. While I knew some of my fellow trustees, many were new acquaintances.
In addition, MNWB represents a network of 47 UK maritime charities, creating opportunities to engage with a wide range of organisations and people who are all committed to supporting those who work at sea and their families.
It has been a whole new world of learning, collaboration and challenge.
What does a trustee do?
As Chair of the Council, I am first and foremost a trustee.
The trustees collectively form the governing body of the charity and are legally responsible for ensuring it is properly managed and operates in accordance with its governing documents and the law.
While the CEO and staff lead the day-to-day running of the organisation, trustees provide oversight and strategic direction. Their responsibilities include:
- Ensuring good governance
Setting strategic priorities
Overseeing the charity’s activities and performance
Supporting long-term sustainability
Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
In short, trustees help ensure the charity remains focused on its purpose and is equipped to deliver its mission effectively.
The importance of the Chair and CEO relationship
One of the aspects of the role I have enjoyed most is working closely with the CEO.
The relationship between the Chair and CEO is a vital one. While their responsibilities are different, they share a common goal: helping the organisation succeed and fulfil its purpose.
I see part of my role as being a sounding board, offering support, challenge and perspective when needed. As the saying goes, two heads are often better than one.
The role can sometimes be demanding and certainly requires time, commitment and focus. However, it also provides an opportunity to continue using and developing skills, knowledge and experience in a meaningful and rewarding way.
Considering becoming a trustee?
Being a trustee is very different from being an employee, but it is a role that offers immense personal and professional satisfaction.
For anyone thinking about becoming a trustee, there is a wealth of guidance available to help you understand the responsibilities involved. A good place to start is the Charity Commission’s guide, The Essential Trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do.
Understanding your duties and responsibilities from the outset will help you carry out the role effectively, support your charity with confidence and ensure compliance with key legal requirements.
A chance to give back
For me, becoming a trustee has been an opportunity to give something back to an industry that shaped my career, while continuing to learn, contribute and build meaningful relationships.
If you have experience, skills and a desire to make a difference, becoming a trustee may be one of the most rewarding ways to use them.
Through effective governance and leadership, trustees play an essential role in helping charities support the people and communities they exist to serve.
