Help shape the future of sustainability in sport
Join BASIS and help shape the future of sustainable sport. We’re looking for an Independent Board Member with expertise in audit, finance, risk, governance, or assurance to bring their experience and perspective to our Board. This is a voluntary role with a three-year term, requiring around 20–24 hours of your time each year, plus optional attendance at the BASIS Conference and Awards.
About BASIS
Sport has a unique ability to inspire change. At the British Association for Sustainable Sport
(BASIS) we believe it can also play a leading role in creating a more sustainable future.
For over a decade BASIS has provided expert help and advice to sports clubs, venues and governing bodies, helping them to understand their impacts, set targets and improve their environmental performance.
BASIS brings together a network of sustainability professionals, operational managers, policy makers and other stakeholders from across sport to enable collaboration, learning and recognition of best practice and innovation. We run webinars and training sessions throughout the year as well as an annual conference and an awards event.
Our vision is to harness the power of sport to build a sustainable future for all, and our mission is to empower sport in the UK to become a world leader in sustainability with the urgency dictated by science.
About the opportunity
As an Independent Board Member, you will play a vital role in strengthening the governance and long-term sustainability of BASIS.
You will provide independent challenge, strategic oversight and expert advice to the Board and Executive team, helping ensure the organisation continues to grow responsibly and effectively.
The successful candidate will also join the BASIS Governance and Audit Committee, helping to shape and oversee our governance framework and assurance processes.
This is an opportunity to use your professional skills to support an organisation that is helping sports clubs, venues and governing bodies across the UK improve their environmental performance and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable future.
Who we are looking for
We welcome applications from individuals who share our passion for sustainability and recognise the influence sport can have in creating positive environmental and social outcomes.
In particular, we are seeking someone who can bring significant experience in:
- Senior-level audit, finance, risk, governance or assurance
- Board effectiveness and organisational accountability
- Internal controls and performance monitoring
- Strong strategic thinking and sound judgement
- Challenging constructively and independent scrutiny
- The role sports can play in addressing environmental and social challenges
- Understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing small, purpose-driven not-for-profit organisations
Knowledge of the sports sector is welcome but not essential.
How the board works
Our Board comprises of:
- Elected Members – represent full BASIS Member organisations, voted in by fellow members.
- Independent Members – contribute relevant expertise or insight from outside the membership.
- Co-opted Members – invited to bring specific skills or perspectives to the table.
We aim for a Board that reflects the full diversity of the sector – across sport types, communities, and lived experiences. We follow the Code for Sports Governance, and are always working to strengthen our transparency, inclusivity, and effectiveness.
Role requirements
This is a voluntary (unpaid) role with a three-year term and a time commitment of around 20-24 hours per year. In addition, you will be invited to attend the BASIS Conference and Awards events. Reasonable expenses, agreed in advance, will be paid.
The Board usually meets six times a year, with two of these in person. The Governance and Audit Committee meets at least four times per year. Minutes and important documents will be shared ahead of meetings so you’re well briefed and ready to contribute. From time-to-time board members will be asked for additional involvement.
Applying
To apply for this role please send a current CV and a covering letter, detailing your relevant experience and explaining your reasons for applying, to the BASIS Board Chair, Russell Seymour at [email protected] before 09:00 on Friday 12th October 2026.
If you have any questions about the role please contact Russell.
Applications will be reviewed by our Nominations Committee who will put a recommendation to the full board for final approval.