Pollock’s Toy Museum Trustee Vacancy: Volunteer Honorary Secretary

Pollock’s Toy Museum (Registered Charity No. 313622) is seeking an Honorary Secretary to join the trustee body. For further information and to apply, see below.

Red and blue tin toy typewriter made by Mettoy

This independent museum collection was founded in 1956 and part of a continuation of a historic East London shop specialising in toy theatre prints from the nineteenth century. It was at two addresses in the West End until 2023 when the Trustees moved the collection and are now re-establishing it on a new basis, with the aim of achieving a long-term home and financial security.

The Museum is run by volunteers, some of whom are trustees, at two London sites, one in the City and the other in Croydon, which are on short leases. The Trustees oversee the management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Pollock’s Toy Museum has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Board members have a collective responsibility and abide by the rules set out by the Charity Commission. The Trust generates income through wholesale and retail trading, grants, events and educational activities. The turnover in 2024 was £28,538.71 and is expected to grow.

Your skills

We are looking for someone willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role of Honorary Secretary. Previous experience in administration and IT advantageous.

  • Coordinate Trustee meetings, prepare and circulate papers, and keep minutes
  • Help us stay compliant with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements by ensuring governance excellence
  • Maintain the digital and physical archives of the Trust in good order
  • Create and lead a Friends of Pollock’s Toy Museum organisation
  • Support with policies, decision records, and governance documents to ensure Pollock’s Toy Museum is delivering on all objectives.
  • Liaise with utility providers at our sites (water and electricity)
  • Liaise with trade suppliers for retail (logging orders, stock levels, etc.)
  • Liaise with landlords and rating authorities for our premises

You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training where needed for trust governance. Applications welcome from all ages and backgrounds.

Personal skills and qualities

  • Commitment to understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities of the Charity Commission’s legal requirements and best practice for charity trustees
  • Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement, and work effectively as a board member
  • Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively and collaboratively in discussion
  • Strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
  • Enthusiasm for Pollock’s Toy Museum’s vision and mission
  • Willingness to lead according to Pollock’s Toy Museum Trust values

Terms of office

  • This charity trustee position is appointed for a two-year term of office that may be renewed.
  • This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed if agreed in advance.

Time commitment

  • Approximately one day per week
  • Attending 6-10 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held via Zoom on weekday evenings and typically last 1-2 hours
  • There are occasional events in person in London which are optional, and often fun
  • Ad hoc and occasional support/consultation on projects working with other trustees, suppliers, charity employees or volunteers on individual projects
  • Attendance in person at occasional events in London and regionally is desirable

To apply please send a cover email and CV to info.pollockstoymuseum@gmail.com Interviews will be held either in person or online in August or September 2025.

We are also looking for a Volunteer Treasurer Trustee.