Join the JR Board of Trustees

The Jewish Renaissance (JR) team is full of ideas and excited about our future developments. To support our creativity with excellent governance, we are looking to grow our Board of Trustees. If you love Jewish arts and culture, and have experience with fundraising or digital strategy or communications and marketing or audience development, this might be the role for you.

About Jewish Renaissance

JR is a quarterly magazine and cultural organisation for the Jewish community in the UK and worldwide. Our mission is to actively encourage, promote and support Jewish arts and culture.

Trustee Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to join our Board of Trustees. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in Jewish arts and culture and be eager to contribute to the strategic growth and sustainability of Jewish Renaissance.

Key Board Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic direction and governance for Jewish Renaissance.

  • Support and guide the organisation in achieving its mission and strategic objectives.

  • Contribute to building and expanding our subscriber base in the UK and internationally.

  • Support fundraising efforts, including donor engagement and foundation partnerships.

  • Participate in projects focused on fundraising, governance, digital strategy, and outreach.

  • Actively promote Jewish Renaissance and support audience engagement initiatives, particularly with younger and regional audiences.



Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • A deep passion for and knowledge of Jewish arts and culture.

  • Expertise in fundraising, especially with major donors and foundations.

  • A strong network within the Jewish community, media, or cultural sectors.

  • Experience in digital strategy, online engagement, or audience development.

  • Understanding of non-profit governance and commitment to best practices.

  • Previous board or trustee experience is an advantage but not essential.

  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within Jewish Renaissance.



Trustee Commitment & Governance

  • Attendance at Board meetings (typically four per year), with additional committee meetings as required. Meeting will be a combination of online and in-person.

  • Initial appointment for a three-year term, with renewal option

  • Adherence to governance best practices, including the Nolan Principles: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

  • Trustees are voluntary and unpaid but will be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out their duties.

  • Conflict of interest declarations must be made where necessary.



Additional Opportunities & Development

  • Opportunities for trustee training and development.

  • Engagement with Jewish cultural institutions, media networks, and fundraising circles.

  • Chance to shape and influence the growth of a leading Jewish arts magazine and cultural organisation.


Organisational Structure

Board of Trustees

Following the retirement of some long serving trustees, the Board currently consists of 5 trustees. We are looking to recruit an additional 2-3 new trustees.

Our latest annual report and accounts are available at:
https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5037860/accounts-and-annual-returns 

Executive

The Executive Director and the Editor have responsibility for the running of the organisation and all aspects of the JR activity, including the magazine, blog, tours, events and educational programmes. They manage a small team of dedicated professionals. Our staff totals 6 members, supplemented by 5 regular contractors and around 50-70 freelancers at any one time for editorial, production and event related activities.

Future Development

JR has recently completed a capacity building project and has exciting plans for the future, including building circulation, reaching a younger audience, further developing our successful programmes for emerging creatives  – and of course fundraising to be able to deliver these plans. To do this, we need expert and enthusiastic trustees.


Application Process

To apply, please submit the following:

  1. A brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience.

  2. A CV highlighting your professional and voluntary experience.

Please send applications to:

Andrew Gordon,
Chair, Jewish Renaissance
andrewgordon@jewishrenaissance.org.uk 

by Friday 15 August 2025

We look forward to hearing from you!