Position Description

The AOI is looking for up to two non-executive directors to join our board. Use your skills and networks to make a genuine difference to the world of illustration and animation working with a talented organisation, making a great impact today and with the opportunity to make a bigger impact tomorrow.

Following the appointment on new chair last year, we are now on the hunt for up to two non-executive directions to help shape and develop our strategy.

The role of the board is to support the strategic vision and leadership of The AOI and to ensure we fulfil our mission. Non-executive directors are key ambassadors of the AOI, promoting our work, helping to ensure best practice and contribute to the good governance of the organisation.

Responsibilities include:

Governance

• Act in the best interests of the AOI and its members, fulfilling the responsibilities of a Company Director
• Help ensure the organisation is well-governed, compliant and operating with integrity
• Contribute to identifying and managing risk in a considered and proportionate way

Shaping direction

• Contribute to shaping and refining the AOI’s strategic direction
• Bring insight, curiosity and constructive challenge to Board discussions
• Support the organisation to remain relevant and aligned with its purpose

Financial oversight

• Engage with budgets, forecasts and financial reporting (or a willingness to learn)
• Support the Board in making informed and sustainable financial decisions
• For Treasurer applicants: take a leading role in guiding financial oversight and building financial confidence across the Board, including (with support from the executive team where appropriate)

Supporting impact

• Monitor the AOI’s performance against its objectives
• Encourage reflection on impact, effectiveness and opportunities for improvement
• Contribute to decisions around new initiatives, partnerships and areas of growth

Insight & advocacy

• Bring relevant knowledge and experience to inform Board thinking
• Help the AOI stay connected to the realities of creative practice and members’ needs
• Support the organisation’s role in advocating for illustrators and the wider creative community

Connections & ambassadorship

• Act as an ambassador for the AOI and its work
• Support the development of partnerships, relationships and opportunities
• Stay engaged with the sector and wider industry conversations

Being part of the Board

• Prepare for and contribute actively to Board meetings
• Foster a Board culture that is open, respectful and collaborative
• Contribute to the ongoing effectiveness and development of the Board

Selection Criteria

We are looking for individuals who bring a range of perspectives, experiences and ways of thinking. You do not need to meet all the criteria to apply.

• Experience contributing to strategy, leadership or decision-making through operating within a Board or in a senior leadership capacity in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation
• An interest in how organisations are governed and the role a Board can play in supporting them effectively
• A connection to, or strong interest in, the illustration or wider creative sector
• An understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing creative professionals
• Motivated by the AOI’s mission and the success of its members Demonstrable experience of building and sustaining relationships with key stakeholders and colleagues to achieve organisational objectives
• A proven track record of sound judgement and effective decision making
• A history of impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences
• A track record of commitment to equality and diversity
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort and to open your networks
• Good, independent judgement and strategic vision

We are particularly keen to strengthen our Board in the following areas:

• Finance – we are seeking to appoint a Treasurer who has confidence with financial oversight, budgeting and reporting
• Fundraising & development – experience generating income, building partnerships or supporting organisational growth
• Marketing & communication – and understanding of stakeholder relationships
• Organisational development & business growth – supporting through innovation and technology

How to Apply

Please apply by sending the following to [email protected], by 5pm on Tuesday 12 May 2026:

1. A letter of interest setting out why you wish to join our Board and the skills and experience you can provide (no more than two pages)
2. An up-to-date CV
3. Contact details for two referees (only contacted with your permission)

Successful applicants will be invited to interview on Thursday 21 May with a view to taking up the position by June 2025.

Please note our next board meeting is on Monday 8 June from 2 – 4pm in Somerset House, London