Butterfly Conservation (BC) is the UK wildlife charity dedicated to saving butterflies, moths and our environment. It was formed in 1968 following the alarming decline of many beautiful butterflies and moths. The charity has approximately 40,000 members, 32 volunteer-run branches, and employs over 80 people throughout the UK. It operates 36 nature reserves and leads, or is involved in, 73 landscape-scale projects to conserve habitats.

Butterflies and moths are a vital part of our wildlife heritage and are valuable as sensitive indicators of the health of our environment. The stark fact is that butterflies and moths continue to decline at an alarming rate, despite BC’s best efforts over the last 40 years. BC's data shows they are both declining faster than most other well-documented groups of plants and animals, so the charity's task is both daunting and complex. For many species, we know what needs to be done to halt the decline and support recoveries. In order to tackle those losses and achieve the aims of the charity, BC must dramatically increase its capacity and influence over the next few years. Its work will benefit other wildlife and the ecosystems upon which all life depends.

BC entered an exciting new phase of its evolution in 2021 with the launch of a bold and extremely ambitious strategy (click here to view) which promises to deliver a step change in UK nature conservation. Over the next five years, BC plans to turn the nature crisis into opportunity by taking imaginative steps to conserve butterflies and moths and help restore biodiversity and rebuild the relationship between people and the natural world. 

The Board of Trustees has a commitment to Butterfly Conservation and its objectives. It has an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. Together with the CEO and Senior Leadership team, it determines the strategic direction and priorities for BC and reviews progress against these on a regular basis.

Alongside their main Board contributions, Trustees also take an active role on one or more of BC’s Sub-committees, which currently include Audit and Risk, Governance, and Investment.

This year, Butterfly Conservation is particularly looking for an individual who will be able to bring new and diverse perspectives to the Board.

Applicants could bring experience from any function in any sector but will have an interest in current issues in the field of conversation, including the biodiversity and climate crisis. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic about BC’s strategy, which promises to deliver a step change in UK nature conservation, and passionate about the environment. They will have good, independent judgement, the ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind.

BC encourages applications from people across all communities who are looking to make a difference to the environment and UK society. The urgency of BC’s mission leaves no space for stereotypes of gender, race, religion, appearance, background, or ability. We are all unique and must work together to save butterflies, moths and the environment. BC is committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone can be free to be themselves and be able to give their best. BC encourages applications from people across all communities who are looking to make a difference. If you have the right skills and experience, and BC's mission and values resonate with you, they would be delighted to hear from you.

Butterfly Conservation actively encourages equality and diversity and it looks to recruit across age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, disability and background. It is keen to improve the diversity of the Board and ensure that it is representative of the communities it supports. Therefore, applications from under-represented groups i.e. ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBT individuals and women would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

Terms of appointment

Council Members attend four scheduled Council meetings per year; this includes three virtual meetings and one weekend meeting in person (reasonable travel costs will be reimbursed). Council members also attend an in-person annual general meeting / members’ day and around four virtual Sub-committee meetings per year, with the total time commitment estimated to be around nine days per year. The appointment is for a three-year term, which may be renewed twice through re-election by the Membership.