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About BARTBristol Avon Rivers Trust (BART) is an environmental charity dedicated to restoring, reconnecting and protecting the rivers of the Bristol Avon catchment.Our strategic plan, Vision of a Healthy River, is structured around three core priorities:Climate resilienceBiodiversity recoveryCommunity engagementAs BART grows in scale and influence – delivering complex restoration programmes, developing citizen science networks, and operating through our trading subsidiary (BART River Services Ltd) – robust governance and proportionate risk management are increasingly critical.Purpose of the RoleThe Trustee (Legal Expertise) will strengthen the Board’s oversight of legal risk, governance compliance, and strategic decision-making as BART expands its delivery and partnerships.This is a governance role. The Trustee will not act as BART’s retained solicitor but will:Support the Board in identifying and managing legal riskProvide strategic input on complex agreements and structuresHelp ensure compliance with charity and company law obligationsSupport sound, proportionate governance as the organisation growsKey ResponsibilitiesAs a Trustee, you will:Fulfil the legal duties of a charity trustee under Charity Commission and company lawContribute to strategic direction and long-term sustainabilityEnsure BART operates in line with its charitable objectivesSupport oversight of financial health and risk managementAct in the best interests of the Trust and its beneficiariesIn addition, the Trustee with legal expertise will:Provide strategic guidance on:Partnership agreements and MOUsCommercial contracts and procurementEmployment and HR complianceLand access and restoration agreementsTrading subsidiary governanceData protection and regulatory complianceHelp the Board determine when external legal advice is requiredContribute to the Finance & Risk Committee (or equivalent sub-committee)Person SpecificationEssentialQualified solicitor or barrister (current or former practising certificate)Strong understanding of governance and regulatory frameworksAbility to interpret and explain legal risk in clear, practical termsStrategic mindset with the ability to operate at Board levelCommitment to environmental restoration and public benefitDesirableExperience in one or more of the following:Charity lawEnvironmental or planning lawCommercial and contract lawEmployment lawPublic sector contractingLand agreements or conservation covenantsGovernance of trading subsidiariesTime CommitmentApproximately 4 – 6 Board meetings per yearParticipation in relevant sub-committeesOccasional ad hoc strategic input between meetingsThe role is voluntary and unpaid, though reasonable expenses may be reimbursed.Strategic Importance of the RoleOver the next 3 – 5 years, BART anticipates:Increased delivery of capital river restoration projectsGreater engagement in development and planning contextsExpanded citizen science and community programmesGrowth in commercial activity via BART River Services LtdMore formalised multi-agency partnershipsLegal expertise at Board level will ensure that growth is matched with strong governance, proportionate risk management, and organisational resilience.Equality, Diversity & InclusionBART is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board. We actively welcome applications from individuals who bring varied backgrounds, lived experience, and perspectives.If you are interested in applying for this role, please see more information below:Becoming a Trustee – LegalTrustee Declaration FormPlease send applications to simon@​bristolavonriverstrust.​org

The health and future of our rivers, and the work of The Rivers Trust Movement, have never been more important. Explore highlights from what we achieved over the past year towards our shared vision of wild, healthy, natural rivers, valued by all.