Work With Us & Governance

Make a Meaningful Contribution to Accountable Development

Catalyst East Africa (CEA Community Alliance Ltd), a registered not-for-profit organisation based in Entebbe, Uganda, invites applications for up to four (4) voluntary, non-executive director positions. Since 2014, CEA has helped NGOs, community-based organisations, foundations and social enterprises strengthen their governance, financial systems, evidence and documentation so they are better prepared to meet institutional funders’ requirements.

As CEA’s membership and programme work grow, we are building a stronger and more diverse Board. We are seeking people who bring sound judgement, integrity and relevant expertise to help guide our strategy, safeguard our independence and strengthen our impact. Appointments will be made against a skills matrix to ensure the Board has the capabilities it needs.

What You Will Contribute

As a Board member, you will provide strategic direction and oversight — not manage day-to-day operations. You will:

• Set and review CEA’s strategy, annual plan and budget.
• Oversee financial stewardship, including review of accounts and approval of the income and expenditure policy.
• Help ensure CEA meets its legal, regulatory and reporting obligations in Uganda.
• Safeguard CEA’s reputation and commitment to preparing organisations for funding without claiming influence over funders.
• Support the Chief Executive Officer and operations team, and hold management accountable for performance.
• Lead or contribute to a Board committee in your area of expertise.
• Act as an ambassador for CEA and help build relationships with partners, members and relevant experts.

Skills and Experience We Are Seeking

You do not need to meet every criterion. We welcome applicants with strong experience in one or more of the following areas:

Who Can Apply & Time Commitment

Independence, Conflicts of Interest & What the Role Offers

To protect CEA’s independence and public trust:

• You must disclose any interest in organisations that are, or may become, CEA members, clients, suppliers or funders.
• Directors may not receive paid work from CEA, directly or through a connected business, unless approved by the Board under related-party rules (the director concerned must recuse themselves).
• Directors must not use their position to promise funding or access to funders for any organisation.
• Current CEA employees and freelancers are not eligible for these positions. All appointments are subject to reference checks and a signed declaration of interests.

What the Role Offers

These are voluntary, unpaid directorships. CEA pays staff responsible for operations, while the Board provides independent oversight. Directors will receive:

• Reimbursement of reasonable, approved out-of-pocket expenses for meeting travel and agreed CEA business.
• A structured induction and Board pack.
• An opportunity to shape how grassroots organisations across East Africa become funder-ready.
• Board-level experience in a growing regional organisation.
• A professional network spanning Uganda, East Africa, and the UK.

Selection Process and Timeline