We are proud of the services we offer and excited about the future. These are
challenging times, not least for our residents, and our services have never been more
necessary. Are you the right person to help lead us into the next part of our journey?
We are looking for two board members. One with experience in assurance, risk
management, and governance and one with finance and treasury skills.
An understanding of housing associations, plus a strong commitment to hearing and
acting on customer voices, would be an advantage, as is a willingness and ability to
learn quickly about a sector that is pivotal in local communities.
We offer a rewarding and enjoyable team environment, a supportive culture, and the
opportunity to play a fundamental role in achieving our vision and purpose.
If you would like to know more, please email hr@cornerstonehousing.net and will be
happy to arrange an informal chat with either of us.
Responsible to: Chair of the board
Responsible for: No line management responsibility
Salary : £2,100/year
Closing Date: 23/03/2026 9.00am
Click here to read more about our current Board members
Click here to read more about our Executive team
Please ensure the information is focussed on your current and/or most recent roles (you can sum up earlier roles, older than 15 years), and complete our skills matrix about your achievements so we get a picture of your skills and experience.
What is the application process?
- Call or email hr@cornerstonehousing.net with any questions or for more information and to discuss any access needs
- Make an application to us. This can be in any format as long as you explain why you are applying. Also complete our skills matrix.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview at our head office in Exeter.
- The successful candidate will be invited to observe a board meeting.
- There will be a short discussion with the panel about the meeting, and then the person will be appointed at our AGM in September.
Guide to Completing your Application Download Application Form Click here to download our recruitment pack Download our skills matrix
Commitment
The following are expected to be attended by the board:
- In person board meetings, usually 6 per year (Wednesday evenings from 5pm – 7pm)
- Online committee meetings. Usually either 3 Audit and Risk Committee and 3 Remuneration and Nomination Committee.
- Two in-person away key events
- One – Two site visits per year (board tours to visit sites)
- Training sessions – a mix of in person, online and e-learning
- Additional meetings, task and finish groups as required
- Residents Engagement Panel meetings at least once per year
- Including preparation time and personal development this is estimated at an average of around 5 hours a month
Person Specification
| Finance and Treasury Oversight |
|---|
| 1.1 Provide expert insight and scrutiny in relation to long term financial planning and treasury management strategy. |
| 1.2 Support compliance with Regulator of Social Housing economics standards including governance and financial viability standard and value for money standard. |
| 1.3 Evaluate financial risks, stress testing, hedging strategies, and covenant compliance. |
| 1.4 Assess the financial impact of development projects, regeneration programmes, and asset management plans. |
| 1.5 Promote effective resource allocation and decision-making that supports long-term financial sustainability. |
| 1.6 Assist the Board Audit & Risk Committee or Remuneration Committee by providing specialist expertise and assurance. |
| Compliance and regulation |
| 2.1 Monitor compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the organisation. |
| 2.2 Review internal and external audit inputs on compliance effectiveness. |
| 2.3 Uphold high standards of governance. |
| 2.4 Maintain confidentiality and avoid conflicts of interest. |
| Strategic contribution |
| 3.1 Support the Board in setting strategic direction. |
| 3.2 Provide constructive challenge to executive leadership. |
| Main tasks of board members |
| Provide leadership within a framework of prudent effective controls that enable risks to be properly assessed and managed. |
| Ensure that the interests and needs of current and future residents are considered in all matters. |
| To ensure that value for money for residents is considered in all matters and that residents views and sought and considered. |
| Ensure that the Association’s properties are developed and maintained to a high standard. |
| Contribute to formulating and regularly reviewing the strategic aims and vision of the Association and promote and uphold them. |
| Ensure that the Association functions within its legal and financial requirements and complies with relevant codes and regulatory requirements. |