Lay Trustee - Applied Microbiology International

The Organisation

Applied Microbiology International (AMI) unites the global microbiology community, breaking down borders and bridging disciplines. We empower researchers and professionals, fostering collaboration that drives real-world scientific impact. Through strategic funding, inclusive events, and championing diverse voices, we tackle the sustainable development goals we care about most.

We spark knowledge and innovation through our industry-leading magazine, The Microbiologist, and three internationally acclaimed journals in partnership with Oxford University Press. We cultivate early careers, celebrate excellence with prestigious awards, and fuel interdisciplinary collaboration that spans the globe.

By amplifying the voices of applied microbiologists worldwide, we shape evidence-based policy, inspire the next generation, and act as a catalyst for scientific discovery, transforming knowledge into solutions that make the world better for everyone.

The Role

AMI is looking for a Lay Trustee to join its modern, forward-thinking Board.

The Trustees meet at least three times per year, these meetings are held via Teams and organised at a time which accommodates Trustees based across the globe. Once per year we hold a face to face meeting in the UK.

Trustees of AMI play a vital role in guiding and strengthening the organisation. They provide support and advice on AMI’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities, while overseeing high-level strategies, policies, and financial plans. Trustees help identify and manage key risks, review financial statements, and support the Chief Executive in delivering AMI’s mission. They contribute their skills, expertise, and networks to promote AMI’s reputation, actively engage in committees or advisory groups, and champion membership growth. Acting independently, legally, and in good faith, Trustees always put AMI’s interests first, staying informed about its operating environment and attending meetings whenever possible.

Key responsibilities include:

• Approving strategies, policies, budgets, and monitoring progress
• Ensuring effective risk management and financial oversight
• Supporting and challenging leadership while contributing expertise
• Promoting AMI’s aims, reputation, and membership growth

In addition to the core responsibilities of all AMI trustees, the new Lay Trustee will:

• Advise the AMI team on development of a new commercial strategy. The strategy will be aligned with AMI’s values and mission and will drive revenue growth and diversification of profitable income streams.
• Provide advice about sales, market dynamics and customer segments, business development, product/ service commercialisation, new product development and commercial partnerships.
• Serve as a member of the AMI Finance, Audit and Risk Committee (5 meetings per year – held remotely).

The Person

We are looking for individuals who bring an entrepreneurial mindset, fresh perspectives, and the energy to contribute to a dynamic organisation with global reach. You will play a key role in helping to shape the organisation’s future, including contributing to a major strategic review planned for 2026.

Candidates do not need to be UK- based, but must share and actively support our values, and be motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference through good governance and strategic leadership.

You will have:

• A background in business / commercial development ideally within the STEM sector.
• A proven track record of senior commercial leadership within STEM.
• Strong integrity, personal credibility.
• Global experience and mindset: open to cross-border collaboration to bring cultural awareness.
• A commitment to AMI’s cause, strategic objectives and values.

You do not need to be a microbiologist to apply for this role.

We are committed to increasing diversity and maintaining an inclusive culture. If you meet our criteria, we welcome your application regardless of your age, ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, social demographic or whether you live with a disability. Reasonable adjustments will be supported wherever possible to minimise barriers to participation.

Additional Information

For comprehensive information about Applied Microbiology International, the role requirements and the person specification, please download the Candidate Briefing Pack.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity please provide the following:

• An up to date CV with the details of two referees (we will not contact them without your prior permission)
• A supporting statement which addresses how you meet the criteria in the person specification

Please submit your application to: applications@trustees-unlimited.co.uk

Deadline for applications: Monday 9th February 2026
Interviews with AMI: 24th-26th February 2026

You may also contact Melissa Baxter at Trustees Unlimited if you have queries about any aspect of the appointment process, need additional information or wish to have an informal and confidential discussion. She can be contacted on 07789 985229 / melissa.baxter@trustees-unlimited.co.uk.