As we look ahead to 2026, trustees and board leaders are facing an increasingly complex landscape. Economic uncertainty, rising regulatory expectations, and greater scrutiny on governance mean that boards must be more agile, informed, and purpose-driven than ever before.
In our latest video, Ian Joseph, Managing Director of Trustees Unlimited, shares his insights on what lies ahead for boards and trustees in 2026 — and how organisations can position themselves to stay ahead of emerging challenges and opportunities.
The challenges shaping boards in 2026
From financial resilience to evolving stakeholder expectations, boards will be required to make decisions with long-term impact while navigating short-term pressures. Strong governance, diverse perspectives, and clear leadership will be critical to maintaining stability and trust.
Ian highlights the importance of:
- Future-focused board composition, ensuring the right mix of skills, lived experience, and strategic insight
- Proactive governance, rather than reactive decision-making
- Trustee confidence and capability, particularly as responsibilities continue to grow
Staying ahead of governance trends
The most effective boards in 2026 will be those that invest early in trustee development and succession planning. This includes thinking differently about recruitment, widening networks, and embracing new approaches to leadership at board level.
At Trustees Unlimited, we work closely with charities and not-for-profit organisations to support board recruitment, trustee development, and long-term governance strength, helping organisations move from challenge to opportunity.
Watch the full video
To hear Ian’s full perspective on the trends shaping 2026 and what trustees should be prioritising now, watch the video and gain practical insight into what the year ahead may bring.
