If you’ve ever considered becoming a trustee but felt unsure where to start, or whether you’d have anything to offer, you’re not alone. When Tracey Rear – a soon-to-be-retiring trustee of our Board – joined us back in 2019, she felt the same way.
“Despite having worked in the charity sector for the best part of 30 years, the idea of sitting on a Board felt daunting. I’d never been a trustee before, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.”
But six years later, she describes her time as one of exceptional personal and professional growth. Today, reflecting on her journey, Tracey shares three important tips for anyone considering taking on the role of a trustee.
1. Be prepared to battle imposter syndrome
Her journey into trusteeship began with an unexpected opportunity. While being a Board member wasn’t something Tracey had considered before, the opportunity to give back to the Foundation was enticing.
“I’d worked with the Foundation for a while in my role as CEO of Independence Guernsey, a charity that supports people struggling with addiction. The Foundation is fundamental to the work we do in our community and without it, we wouldn’t be able to aid the recovery of as many people as we do. The opportunity to join the Board and support the Foundation as it had supported Independence was something I jumped at.”
However, there was definitely a sense of imposter syndrome lurking for Tracey when she applied, and even when she successfully joined the Board.
“I remember walking into my first board meeting and thinking, what am I doing here? Everyone seemed so confident, accomplished and clever. I really questioned whether I had anything valuable to contribute. Even though I’d worked in the charity sector for years, being in that space felt completely different. It took a while to shake that feeling of not belonging, but over time, I started to see the value of my experience and perspective. It’s been empowering to recognise that I do have something to offer, and that my voice matters.”
2. Learn as much as you can from the people around you
For many first-timers, the role of a trustee can seem a little mysterious. But what Tracey quickly learned is that being a trustee is all about shared expertise, collaboration, shared values and, yes, reading quite a few documents.
“You need to be prepared to read a lot and understand the decisions you’re making. But remember you’re not alone; you’re part of a group of skilled, experienced people, all bringing something different to the table.”
That collective wisdom, she says, was one of the most fascinating parts of the experience.
“It was so interesting to see how the Board operated. It was collegiate, strategic, and amazingly responsive to the changing needs of the community. You see how decision-making shifts based on the economy, the demands on the sector, and the level of need. I drunk this knowledge in, spending as much time as I could asking questions and learning from others to help strengthen my own professional path.”
3. Pat yourself on the back regularly
The Board empowered Tracey to feel confident in her abilities, both existing and new, something she admits having struggled with in the past.
“Being on the Board helped me realise I had skills I hadn’t recognised before. I walk away from the role energised. I’m confident in my abilities and knowledge, and I’m now armed with a whole new set of skills that will continue to shape my career in the best ways possible.”
And if any seeds of doubt had been left in Tracey’s mind, Jo Le Poidevin, Executive Director for the Foundation, reiterates the immense importance of Tracey’s influence during her time on the Board.
“What Tracey has brought – especially around addiction, recovery, and clinical governance -is a wealth of frontline experience. She understands the root causes of the issues faced by people supported by our charity partners. She’s also been instrumental in helping us navigate the increasingly regulated landscape of our sector. Over the past six years, the expectations for service quality have shifted significantly, with more emphasis on qualifications, professional memberships, CPD, and clinical supervision. Tracey knows that world inside and out. Her insight has been crucial in helping us stay ahead and ensure we support charities to deliver safe, effective services.”
Now, Tracey is continuing her work as a CEO alongside her studies. And as she leaves the Board, she sends a parting snippet of wisdom to anyone considering becoming a trustee.
“You might feel unsure at first, but don’t let that stop you. You will learn, and you do have something to add. To be a good trustee, you don’t have to have all the answers – just a willingness to listen, learn, and contribute what you can.”
