Non-executive director (board member)

Closing date for applications: 5pm, Tuesday 12 May 2026

Location: London

Provide strategic guidance and oversight to a non-profit championing the illustration industry.

The Association of Illustrators is the professional body for illustrators and animators in the UK and beyond.Since 1973 the AOI has been championing illustrators and the illustration industry with education, promotion and campaigning to achieve a thriving industry for us all. We also support animators and illustrators working across both disciplines. As a non-profit organisation, we do the work that we do thanks to our members, which include illustrators, agents, colleges and creative companies. We support over 2,000 illustrators, agents and educators – championing rights, delivering industry-leading events, and celebrating excellence through the World Illustration Awards.

The Association of Illustrators (AOI) is seeking up to two non-executive directors to join our Board and help shape the future of a thriving global illustration community.This is an exciting time to join the AOI as we enter a new phase of strategic growth, responding to rapid changes across the creative industries.

The Role

As a non-executive director, you will:

• Contribute to the AOI’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability
• Support good governance and decision-making
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation and its members
• Bring insight, challenge and expertise to Board discussions

This is a voluntary (unpaid) role, with travel expenses covered where needed.
Time commitment is approximately half a day per month.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds. You might bring:

• Experience in strategy, leadership, or board-level decision-making
• A connection to, or strong interest in, the creative industries
• Strong judgement, collaboration skills, and a commitment to equity and inclusion

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Finance (Treasurer)
• Fundraising & development
• Marketing & communications
• Organisational development & business growth

What’s Involved

• 4 Board meetings per year (in person, London)
• Attendance at events such as World Illustration Awards and AGM
• Occasional advisory support
• Acting as an advocate and connector for AOI

Why Join the Board?

• Make a meaningful impact on the illustration industry
• Support emerging and established creatives
• Expand your network and leadership experience
• Access AOI events and professional development opportunities

For more information, please download our candidate information pack here

We have also recorded a ‘learn more’ webinar about the AOI, the application process and what we expect from our non-executive directors, view the recording here.

How to apply

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experience and perspectives.

Please apply by sending the following to jobs@theaoi.com

1. A letter of interest setting out why you wish to join our Board and the skills and experience you can provide (no more than two pages)
2. An up-to-date CV

Apply by 5PM on Tuesday 12 May 2026.

We welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented in the creative industries.

Please make sure that you state in your application that you found this role via Creative Access.