Trustees play a vital role in providing strategic guidance and governance, ensuring charities can deliver essential services to communities across Ireland. This Giving Tuesday we’re shining a light on Boards of Trustees across the country. Here we chat to David Swinburne, a Board Member with Cork Simon Community.

Can you tell us a little about you?

I’m a Chartered Accountant and Advisory Partner at Forvis Mazars. I have over 20 years of professional services experience in business advisory, turnaround restructuring, corporate finance, transaction services and forensic accounting. Outside of my ‘day job’ I’m also a Board Member with Cork Simon Community.

What inspired you to become a Charity Trustee?

I suppose I do like to help people and give back. And then I met the current chair of Cork Simon, Christine Moloney. She outlined to me all the work that Cork Simon was doing. I just had to join. I knew I had to help.

In your opinion what are the most important skills and qualities that Trustees bring to charities?

I think from my own experience to be authentic and be yourself.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a Trustee?

Have a look and see who the current board members are, who the chair is, and go reach out and see can you get involved.

What one word would you use to sum up being a Trustee?

Privilege.

Ready to put your hand up and join a charity board? Find out more at www.charitiesinstitute.ie.