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Galapagos Conservation Trust
Software Engineering
United States
Posted on Jan 21, 2026
Who we are Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) is the only UK registered charity focussed solely on the conservation of one of the most unique and ecologically important, but vulnerable, areas in the world, the Galapagos Islands. With 30 years of experience, we partner with Ecuadorian authorities, NGOs, local communities and leading researchers both in Galapagos and the UK to support impactful conservation programmes and deliver community outreach across the Archipelago. By raising funds and awareness in the UK, we can support and deliver projects in Galapagos, helping to contribute to the overall management of this unique ecosystem and enabling us to achieve maximum positive impact in our efforts to conserve the special wildlife of these Islands.Qué hacemosWe support and deliver projects in Galapagos, focussing on restoring natural habitats by removing invasive species that threaten the iconic and unique nature of the Galapagos. In doing so, we protect the Floreana Mockingbird, the iconic Galapagos Giant Tortoise, the Scalloped Hammerhead and the Blue-Footed Booby. We are also ambitiously seeking innovative solutions to the scourge of plastic pollution – in Galapagos and globally.The Board todayThe Board is currently composed of ten Trustees. You can find our Board here (Trustees Archive – Galapagos Conservation Trust). As part of succession planning and to complement the existing skills on the current Board, we are seeking a new Trustee to join the Board and play an active part in ensuring it remains a driving force for nature conservation. Currently, Board members are required to attend four Board meetings (approx. 2 –3 hours) per year, aiming to have two in-person in London each year. In addition, Board members are expected to attend four committee meetings per year prior to each Board meeting with wider senior staff and get involved in GCT events wherever possible.The Board is supported by a professional and committed Executive Team, led by CEO, Jen Jones and Ambassadors such as Sir Stephen Fry, Dr Sarah Darwin and Monty Halls.The role of a TrusteeTrustees work with the Chair and other members of the Board to determine the Trust’s strategy and ensure that it delivers on its charitable objectives and long-term mission. The Board are ultimately responsible for the organisation’s viability and legal responsibilities.In addition, Trustees should be willing to use their specific skills and expertise to support the Board and Senior Leadership Team in its decision-making, and will be ambassadors for the Trust, always acting in its best interests. They will also be able to form sound and balanced independent views, and to challenge in a constructive and collegial manner.All Trustees are encouraged to financially support the Trust at a level they determine appropriate but this is not compulsory. GCT is open to those seeking their first non-executive role, provided they can demonstrate that they have the ability to work at a strategic level, think creatively and criticise constructively. What we’re looking forWe are looking for someone who can bring knowledge of Ecuador and its culture to the Board and provide input on a wide range of ever-changing issues as the organisation continues to grow and develop. We are in the process of registering as an international NGO in Ecuador and are looking for someone who can help support us through this process and the ongoing requirements once registered. We are looking for someone who can actively contribute to the Board at a strategic level with the ability to question and challenge the organisation and always work in the best interest of GCT. For the role, we are particularly interested in individuals who have some of the following skills and experience to complement our current Board:- Good understanding of Ecuador and the culture- Understanding of the responsibilities of company directors and charity trustees- Communications and marketing strategy expertise- Charity accounting expertise- Strategy development and implementation- Risk management and controls- Compliance with legal regulations in EcuadorAs a Trustee, you will be able to provide governance, strategic direction, constructively contribute to Board discussions, and provide inspiration and vision to our staff.A keen interest in the Galapagos Islands and your passion for wildlife, the environment and conservation will enable you to be an effective and enthusiastic ambassador and advocate of our work. The processShortlisted candidates will be invited for an initial discussion with the CEO, and if successful, a meeting with at least one current Trustee. The successful individual will initially join the board as a Trustee, enabling them to spend time understanding our work and how we operate, before being appointed officially at our AGM in May/June 2026. Closing date for applications: 31 October 2025DiversityGCT welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. As those from younger age groups and from ethnically diverse backgrounds are currently underrepresented on the Board, applications from those candidates are particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from under-represented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.Terms of appointmentThis role is unremunerated, but reasonable, pre-agreed travel expenses will be reimbursed. There are quarterly Board and Committee meetings per year, plus an additional Board/ Committee meeting if required. In addition, there will be an annual strategy session. It is also expected that some contribution will also be made outside of board meetings in mentoring and providing advice and guidance. Meetings are currently held virtually, but it is expected that some meetings will be held in person in the future. Trustees are elected at the AGM for a term of three years, which may be renewed for a further term of three years, subject to a maximum consecutive period of office of nine years from the date of appointment at an AGM.