The Science Museum Group (SMG) incorporates the Science Museum in South Kensington, London; the Science & Industry Museum in Manchester; the National Railway Museum in York; Locomotion in Shildon; and the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford. In addition, the Group is developing its collections store at Wroughton near Swindon as the National Collections Centre (NCC).

The SMG's mission is to inspire futures. Its five museums and NCC are a key national resource. With unparalleled collections in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), the Group is the world’s leading group of science museums, attracting millions of visitors each year, and is uniquely placed to draw people of all ages to engage with science in an inspirational and informal way.

The Science Museum Foundation Board is independent of the Board of Trustees of the Science Museum. The Foundation Board has a different but no less vital role in furthering the SMG mission to make science open for all and inspire the next generation of scientists. Its primary focus however, is on fundraising, grant-making and investments.

SMG is conducting transformative, multi-million pound renovations in its museums, restoring the historic sites and in the process, creating a hugely improved visitor experience. The museums in York and Shildon are engaged in the Vision2025 campaign, in Manchester they're restoring the iconic Power Hall, and in Bradford they are opening a new gallery – Sound and Vision – in time for the city’s reign as UK Capital of Culture in 2025. In London, the Science Museum is ready to start the second phase of its Masterplan works to refurbish our galleries. It is a hugely exciting time to be part of SMG.

The Science Museum Foundation Board is looking for up to two new Trustees. The role includes giving strategic advice, allowing access to the Trustees' intellectual capital, and publicly supporting the museums part of the SMG.

In addition to contributing time, talent and resources (financial and other) in support of the Group, Trustees are expected to:

• Approve grants to be made from the Foundation’s funds
• Identify individuals and organisations that may be interested in funding SMG’s work and actively participate in securing that funding
• Contribute, in an advisory capacity, to the forming of the fundraising strategy
• Make personal contributions to the Foundation, either in funds or kind
• Be an advocate for the activities of SMG

New Trustees will play a vital role in driving forward the Science Museum Group’s vision to create a more scientifically literate and engaged society. Trustees will also be invited to annual dinners, exclusive events and given behind-the-scenes access to SMG's work and collections. 

The Science Museum Foundation Board is looking for someone energetic and dynamic to help it achieve its ambitious goals. It is committed to boosting its efforts and growing its fundraising capacity in line with its ambitions across its Northern sites, so the ideal candidate will have a strong network of contacts in the North of England. They will also share an affinity with its mission to provide memorable and inspiring experiences to people across the UK. The Board is open to first time Trustees as long as they have a network for fundraising purposes.

The new Trustees will be able to demonstrate the following:

• A commitment to and interest in the Science Museum Group, and support of the purposes and values of its museums, including its public educational purpose
• Proven ability to take responsibility and demonstrate sound judgement in strategic decision making;
• Excellent representational, advocacy and communication skills
• A strong business, marketing and commercial acumen gained through an extensive background at an influential level
• An ability and desire to support the four Northern museum sites through fundraising and making introductions to interested individuals or groups
• Strong networks with individuals or corporations in North of England, most especially in Yorkshire and the North West
• Understanding of public service and being open for all through EDI initiatives

The ideal candidate will have the enthusiasm and the energy to build influential relationships with philanthropic decision makers, chiefly at trusts and foundations. Upon establishing a mutually beneficial relationship, they will introduce potential funders to the charity, and advocate compellingly on its behalf. 

This role is unremunerated. The appointment is for a three-year term, which can be renewed at the discretion of the Board. Reasonable and domestic travel expenses may be covered. The time commitment will include four Board meetings per year. Board members are also expected to attend other committee meetings as necessary (Grant-making or Nominations committee), as well as occasionally attending profile-raising events at the museums. 

This organisation will have Board meetings in London however, the Board is flexible and open to virtual dial-ins as and when required. When and if possible, the Board would appreciate attendance at annual dinners, profile raising events and any other important museum events.