Council of Experts member - National Historic Ships UK

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Organisation: National Historic Ships UK
Role: Council of Experts member (Voluntary)
Term: 5 Years
 

About National Historic Ships UK:

NHS-UK is a government funded, independent organisation which gives objective advice to UK governments and local authorities, funding bodies, and the historic ships sector on all matters relating to historic vessels in the UK.  It maintains the National Register of Historic Vessels, which lists over 1,500 historic craft.  It also manages the Shipshape Network, which was set up to promote the regeneration of traditional maritime skills around the UK.  National Historic Ships UK is seeking a new Council member to join our Council of Experts.

About the Council of Experts:

The NHS-UK Council of Experts consists of up to twelve individuals appointed by a Nominations Committee.  The Council exists solely as a source of advice and point of reference for the Director and staff on all matters relating to historic vessels in the UK and has no formal role in the governance of the organisation.  Members of the Council may be called upon to provide guidance or specialist knowledge within their sphere of expertise and to represent the organisation as required but are not responsible for the work of NHS-UK.  

Skills and Experience:

NHS-UK is seeking Council members with the following skill set. Please do still apply if you can tick several but not all of the following:

• Experience across both public and private sectors in influencing and developing strategic planning for organisations delivering public benefit
• Conservation expertise, including non-maritime related experience applicable to the conservation needs of historic vessels and associated subject areas
• Knowledge of issues relating to historic vessels in the UK and across the world
• Experience in initiating, developing and directing heritage-based projects
• Experience of the management issues affecting outward-facing organisations.
• Legal skills, particularly regarding contract law and governance matters
• Knowledge of the legislative frameworks and regulations affecting historic vessels, including Maritime and Coast Agency requirements, Health and Safety Legislation, EU legislation, and matters relating to the Internal Maritime Organisation
• Experience of working with UK national and devolved administration governments, regional bodies and local authorities (including as planning agencies)
• Knowledge of sustainable business planning
• Passion and commitment for the work of the organisation

Membership Duties may include:

• Attending Council meetings
• Providing technical advice or expertise as called upon by the Director and staff
• Completing the Council Register of Interests and skills matrix
• Representing NHS-UK at events, conferences, meetings or presentations
• Becoming a member of an additional working group set up by NHS-UK
• Representing NHS-UK by sitting on external working groups or committees
• Taking part in judging or shortlisting the annual awards
• Acting as a representative for a zone within the Shipshape Network
• Mentoring a specific project being undertaken by NHS-UK
• Sitting on interview panels for the recruitment of NHS-UK staff, project workers or consultants

Council Meetings:

Council members are required to attend two annual meetings (usually in January/ February and June/July). Meetings may be held either online or at a pre-agreed site and are typically scheduled between 11am-3pm to facilitate member travel. 

Remuneration:

Members of the Council offer their services on a voluntary basis.  They receive no remuneration with the exception of reimbursement of expenses for activities undertaken on behalf of NHS-UK agreed in advance with the Director. 

Term: 

The initial term of appointment is up to five years and is renewable for a further two years at a time. 

How to Apply:

If you are interested in applying for this role, please send your C.V. and a covering letter explaining why you think you are a suitable candidate to info@nationalhistoricships.org.uk 

The closing date for applications is 31st May 2025.  The Nominations Committee will meet in early June with the aim of appointing the new Council member before the Council meets on 24th June.