She Is Sustainable 

She is Sustainable CIC supports and empowers women working or wanting to work in sustainability. We engage women from a diverse range of backgrounds in the public, private and third sectors and at different stages in their careers. We support recent graduates and experienced professionals through a programme of events and our peer community. The programmes benefit participants through developing confidence, expertise and skills to progress in their career in sustainability and build strong connections with other women. 

Since 2016, She is Sustainable has run successful two-day programmes which are part conference, part workshop,and part networking. She is Sustainable events support women early in their career to find their first job in sustainability. ‘She is Still Sustainable’ helps mid-career women working in sustainability who found themselves at crossroads. 

How we are organised

In 2022 She is Sustainable became formalised as a Community Interest Company limited by guarantee. We needed a structure that was separate from the individuals involved. The administrative elements needed to make impactful events happen are in place: a bank account, TicketSource page, website and LinkedIn group of alumni from our previous events. Our events are designed to make a small profit to seed future events, pay directors and contributors direct expenses, and where we can help women attend when costs are a barrier.

Where we are now?

During the pandemic we ran online events to keep our community connected, and since the pandemic have run some online and some face to face events. But it feels our role and value has shifted – and we need to adapt what we do.

Working locations and patterns have changed since Covid. Hybrid work patterns are making it more difficult for participants to take half a day out of the office to join our events in person. Covid-19 has also adversely impacted female economic empowerment in the UK.

We know there is still a role for She is Sustainable, and need some fresh ideas and enthusiasm to help shape how and what we offer for women working in, or wanting to work in, sustainability.

We have got to where we are today with a small team of five directors, all juggling busy work and homelife commitments. We are looking to double in size and replace two of our Directors, who are moving on, by recruiting an additional six-eight directors to help shape our future plans and to deliver fantastic and supportive opportunities.

What will a Director of She is Sustainable do?

You will act in accordance with our Articles of Association; help to evolve the purpose, strategy and activities of the CIC; establish and uphold policies and practices to meet our aims; and ensure we function within legal and financial requirements. You can see the legal duties of a Director and further guidance on Community Interest Companies (CIC) on the Companies House website links.

On a day-to-day basis you will help with the governance and administration of the CIC (attending Board meetings, helping with preparing and filing our accounts etc), as well as rolling your sleeves up to help develop and deliver our activities – such as planning events, engaging speakers, facilitating sessions, sending communications etc. 

Who are we looking for?

We are keen for our board to represent the women we look to serve – including those starting or looking to start their career in sustainability, those who have been in the sector for a while, people from diverse backgrounds, and those who can empathise with the diverse challenges our community face. In particular, we welcome applications from young people and minority groups and do not require previous Management Board or Director experience.

We are also keen to recruit directors with some of the following skills and specialisms:

• Finance and accounting 
• CIC/small charity experience (helping to navigate the new world of being incorporated)
• Engaging, nurturing and growing She is Sustainable communities
• Events planning and management
• Facilitation of events
• Marketing and communications
• Volunteer management
• Understanding of early careers
• Fundraising

We are looking for people who can find approximately eight hours a month, but are very open to a discussion if you are interested in other kinds of involvement. All roles are voluntary, as She is Sustainable is run completely by volunteers. 

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments for applicants who may need or benefit from them.

Why apply?

This is a great opportunity to use your skills and experience to help and support other women. On top of that, you can also gain experience in the areas above and Board experience within a small CIC. Plus there is the opportunity to shape and influence the direction of She is Sustainable to make a greater impact.

Time Commitment

Four Board meetings a year, plus time to plan and run activities – average of 8 hours per month. This will vary through the year depending on involvement in specific activities and events

Renumeration

Unpaid / voluntary. Modest expenses covered

Term: Minimum 18 months.