Introduction to the Business Board
Strong financial management is essential for charities and the Business Board's plays a key role in overseeing the financial affairs within the Urdd’s governance structure. Safeguarding the charity's financial position, its financial resources and investment decisions are essential to ensure that the charity has the resources to achieve its objects while continuing to ensure that the charity's activities are sustainable for the future.
Business Board Responsibilities
- Review quarterly management accounts and annual departmental budgets
- Review the annual statutory accounts to give the Audit and Risk Committee assurance that the financial information is consistent with the management accounts
- Oversee Urdd’s property portfolio
- Approve and monitor capital projects
- Monitor investment performance and recommend changes
- Approve business expenditure requests from reserves
- Review and oversee Urdd’s financial policies
Gwennan Oakes
Chair, Business Board
Gwennan has over twenty years’ experience in finance across a range of sectors, including extensive work as a leader in financial management and as a head of risk. Throughout her career she has supported organisations to strengthen their governance, risk processes, and their ability to make robust financial decisions. As Chair of the Business Board, Gwennan is committed to supporting the Urdd’s financial strategy and long-term sustainability, helping to ensure that young people across Wales continue to benefit from the opportunities the organisation provides.
We are looking to appoint young members aged 18–25 to the Business Board
This is an exciting opportunity for young people aged 18–25 to contribute to the Urdd’s work and help shape key decisions by serving on the Business Board.
You will play a vital role in our governance structure by sitting on our strategic boards, by bringing fresh perspectives, contemporary experiences, and creative ideas that influence the organisation’s future direction and development.
For the Business Board, we are seeking enthusiastic individuals who have one or more of the following skills or experiences:
- Working in a field—or studying a subject—that leads toward an accountancy qualification
- A basic understanding of concepts such as revenue, costs, profit, and investment returns
- The ability to interpret information, identify trends, and ask insightful questions
- Confidence to contribute during meetings and share your ideas
As a member of the Business Board, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills, collaborate with professionals, and gain valuable, practical experience discussing financial matters in a supportive environment.
How to apply
Complete the online application form (link below) and include:
- Your relevant experience or interest
- Why you want to join a Strategic Board
- How you identify with the Urdd’s vision and values
Closing date: 2 March 2026