Identifying and managing conflicts of interest in a charity

The ACEVO member support team frequently receives enquiries from leaders concerning possible trustee conflicts of interest and how to manage these.

Whilst this is a governance matter for all trustees, it is often the CEO who will manage the process with the Chair.

Conflicts of interest can happen in all types and sizes of charity. The important thing is trustees  know when conflicts may occur, identify when they do occur and manage them properly each time they occur. We hear from members of trustees not being aware that they face a conflict of interest, and querying when they should step in.

In this member meeting, we will hear from the Charity Commission about their research and updated guidance (from May 2026). Plus you’ll have the chance to pose your own questions and gain clarity on this vital resource.

We appreciate that this can be a sensitive topic, so if you have any concerns about booking on, e.g. event emails or how the invitation appears in your calendar, please do get in touch. The calendar invitation for this workshop is set to show as ‘ACEVO event’ rather than the workshop title. Email titles will not mention the name of the event, but email content may do. We can also arrange booking via a personal email address if this would be helpful. 

Speakers

Jenny Berry

Senior support advisor, ACEVO

Jenny Berry

Senior support advisor, ACEVO

Jenny Berry was appointed as director of ACEVO North in April 2008, to lead on the expansion of ACEVO’s influence and support services in the regions. Jenny also leads on Professional and Leadership Development for ACEVO, which includes developing our suite of leadership courses, advising members with mentoring and coaching arrangements, and supporting members through any difficulties or crises they may have.

Previously, Jenny’s 25 year career in the Third Sector took her to the role of CEO of the CTA (Community Transport Association) a UK wide membership body based in Manchester, with over 2500 members across the UK.

Jenny is a trustee for two charities, one local and one UK charity, and is a member of the Charity Governance Code steering group.

Sue Smith

Senior Trustee Guidance Manager, Charity Commission for England and Wales

Sue Smith

Senior Trustee Guidance Manager, Charity Commission for England and Wales