Our governance

The RSPCA is governed by a Board of trustees who are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity and for the effective delivery of its charitable objects. The Board consists of up to nine elected trustees and up to three co-optees. Day-to-day leadership of the organisation is undertaken by an executive team, led by the Chief Executive.

Notice of Nominations for election to the RSPCA Board of Trustees 2023

Each year one-third of the Board’s nine elected trustees retire by rotation and an election process is carried out. This year Amanda Bringans, Karen Harley & David Thomas will retire from the Board (they are eligible to stand for election/re-election).

The recruitment process to become an elected RSPCA Board member starts with the Nomination Stage. This Stage involves eligible candidates nominating themselves for election to the role. Any RSPCA member can nominate themselves for election as long as they meet the qualifying criteria. In particular, candidates must have been an RSPCA member for a continuous period of at least twelve months immediately preceding 1 June 2023 (there are some other exceptions so please refer to the nomination pack for more details). They will also need the support of 2 eligible members when they apply.

The Nomination Stage for this year's elections is now open. If you are considering applying to become a Board trustee, the nomination pack is available from this date. Please email elections@rspca.org.uk to request a nomination pack. Alternatively you can write to: The Returning Officer, Legal Services Department, RSPCA, Parkside, Chart Way, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1GY.

Nominations close at 3pm on 1st June 2023.

If there are more applicants than there are vacancies, RSPCA members decide who to elect to the Board. A ballot will take place later this year to determine who is elected.

The Society is committed to valuing diversity and promoting equality. We are seeking nominees from diverse backgrounds and we welcome nominations from members of underrepresented groups.