Merlin's Magic Wand Charity Seeking Trustee

Founded in 2008 by Merlin Entertainments, Merlin’s Magic Wand is a global charity focused on providing magical experiences for children who need them most.

Since 2008, the charity has delivered over 1 million magical experiences to children facing challenges of serious illness, disability and adversity and their families. This has been achieved through the charity’s three main charitable programmes, or ‘magic spells’:

• Magical Days Out; A single gifted magical day out for children to enjoy their chosen Merlin attraction. A contribution towards travel costs is also available.
• Merlin’s Magic Spaces; In children’s hospitals, treatments centres, orphanages, SEN schools and hospices, we design and create magical themed spaces, bringing magic to their everyday.
• Magic on Tour; Where children are unable to get to an attraction, we take the magic of Merlin attractions directly to them, through in person and online experiences.

We are now seeking a new Trustee (Pro Bono) who can bring both experience and insight to support the charity’s continued growth across the globe with particular emphasis on providing counsel on fundraising activities and connecting us with a wider network of benefactors.?We are looking for the following:

• Director/senior level experience within a global charity (preferably related to supporting children).
• Fundraising experience in a global context – ideally including the US.
• Understanding of charity governance (possibly through prior experience of being a charity trustee).
• Ability to make time for 3 scheduled board meetings per annum (2hrs in length) – ideally at least 1 in person.
• Ability to provide time outside of board meetings for updates/correspondence with the Charity Manager and Fundraising and Partnerships Manager (approx. 1 hour per month).

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to advise on our strategic objectives to achieve this aim, including;

?Corporate partnerships and income diversification - The charity has primarily been known to Merlin Entertainments attractions and employees and we are looking to maintain this great relationship whilst building awareness and income generation channels externally.

Campaigning to reach more children and their families – Interactive and educational activities for supporters to get involved with, a vibrant recent brand refresh with upcoming website upgrade, and development of our Ambassador programme.

Operational efficiency - The charity has a little team with big dreams! We are in the process of implementing a new applications system in order to welcome and manage the anticipated increase in demand for our Magical Days Out programme. We will continue to pursue technological developments and greater operational effectiveness so that we can reach more children and families with Merlin magic.

Merlin’s Magic Wand is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workplace where people can be themselves, have the same opportunities and thrive together. Together, we work to create a workplace where everyone feels valued, no matter their age, race, gender, religion, disability or sexual orientation.

To apply for this opportunity or to find out more, please email: [email protected] attaching your CV and a cover letter.