In the fourth of a series of Trustee Q&A blogs, we speak to David Newns, who joined the board of The Charity Service in 2022.
Can you tell us about your background and professional career?
I graduated in Business and Administration from Bradford University in 1969. I then worked in industry all my salaried life, mainly consumer goods and packaging. I spent 26 years of my career working for an Italian multi-national as their UK M.D. running their UK distribution to major High Street stores. I then worked for the same group coordinating internationally with local subsidiaries or distributors and also working with manufacturers in China. I was also president of two Trade Associations in the musical instrument industry.
I also stood for the European Parliament 3 times (unsuccessfully!)
What initially interested you in becoming a trustee?
As I was coming up to semi-retirement in 2009, I had no real hobbies so started to look for trustee or non-Exec positions. Long-standing friends introduced me to a charity that gave supported living to adults with learning difficulties. Having ‘given it a try!’ I stayed for 14 years (two 6-year appointments and committee work when not a trustee). I was Chair in two spells totaling 8 years and also Treasurer. Finally retired in November 2022 when my second spell under their rules came to an end and I felt it was time for new blood rather than take another 6 years.
Initially I wasn’t sure what I could bring to them, but was delighted to find that my industrial skills were hugely relevant. It also was a powerful constant in my transition from salaried to pro bono working and kept me very involved.
Why did you choose to join The Charity Service?
As my previous trusteeship was ending I was seeking another role, though one with less responsibility than I had previously had. I saw (through REACH) an advert for TCS and having a great belief in Philanthropy applied, thankfully successfully.
I have seen the power of Philanthropy in the USA and strongly believe it needs a higher profile in the UK.
What do you enjoy most about being a trustee at The Charity Service?
The colleagues and employees.
Supporting worthy causes through the Grants Committee. The new initiative to find new donors
What are The Charity Service’s key strengths?
Independent advice, reasonable priced support for donors.
Pete’s help to small charities in making their applications.
Where would you like to see The Charity Service in five years’ time?
Much bigger through having found many more philanthropists who work through us.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a Trustee?
You don’t know what you are missing!
It’s not necessarily the specific experience that you bring to the table but the skills you have built up in your career so far – it is surprising how transferable they are.
