Katie Docherty, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIOF), became a trustee of Charity Leadership Scotland (formerly ACOSVO) after experiencing first-hand the support it offers charity leaders. Over seven years on the Board, including serving as Chair, she's gained valuable insights into charity governance, leadership and fundraising. For Trustees’ Week 2026, Katie shares what trusteeship has taught her, why fundraisers make valuable board members and how taking on the role can benefit both individuals and charities.
Katie's journey into trusteeship began with a simple desire to give something back to an organisation that had supported her early in her leadership career. Seven years later, it's an experience she continues to value, both professionally and personally.
"When I was a new chief executive, I got an enormous amount from being a member of Charity Leadership Scotland (then ACOSVO). The support, advice and connections were invaluable, and when the opportunity arose to become a trustee, I wanted to give something back to an organisation that had given me so much.
"But what’s been lovely is that, while I became a trustee to give something back, the experience kept on giving to me. Over seven years on the Board, including my time as Chair, I’ve learned so much, met wonderful people and gained perspectives and friendships that I might never otherwise have had."
You've experienced charity leadership from both sides of the boardroom. Has being a trustee changed how you see things?
Being a trustee has given me a different perspective on many of the challenges I face in my day job as a chief executive. When you’re working within an organisation, you’re often immersed in the day-to-day pressures. As a trustee, you must stand back, look at the bigger picture and think about long-term sustainability, risk and impact.
It’s also reinforced just how important fundraising is to good governance.
Fundraising isn’t simply about bringing in money; it’s about building relationships, earning trust and creating the resources that enable organisations to deliver their purpose. Boards need to understand and value that contribution.
What's something you've learned as a trustee that you think fundraisers could use in their own roles?
"One of the biggest lessons for me has been the importance of asking good questions and being prepared to challenge constructively.
"Good trustees don’t need to have all the answers, and neither do good leaders or fundraisers. Sometimes the most valuable thing you can do is to bring a different perspective, ask why something is being done in a particular way or encourage people to think differently.
"Fundraisers are often brilliant at building relationships and understanding people. Bringing that curiosity, confidence and willingness to challenge into conversations about strategy and decision-making can make a real difference."
Trustees, charity leaders and fundraisers all bring something different to the table. What helps them work well together?
"Ultimately, everyone should be working towards the same purpose, but we all bring different experiences, responsibilities and perspectives.
"I think the best organisations are those where trustees, leaders and fundraisers have open, honest relationships and a shared understanding of what they’re trying to achieve. Fundraisers need boards that understand the realities of generating income, are prepared to invest in fundraising and are willing to support responsible risk-taking.
"Equally, trustees need to hear directly from fundraisers about the opportunities and challenges they see. Good governance shouldn’t feel like something that happens separately from the work of the organisation. It should help make that work possible."
Finally, what would you say to a fundraiser who's thinking about becoming a trustee but isn't quite sure they're ready?
"I’d say absolutely go for it! Fundraisers have so many skills that make them excellent trustees, from relationship-building and communication to strategic thinking, financial awareness and understanding what motivates people to give.
"Don’t underestimate the value of what you can bring to a board, even if you’re relatively early in your career. You don’t have to be a chief executive or have decades of experience to make a meaningful contribution.
Choose an organisation whose purpose matters to you, take the time to understand the responsibilities that come with trusteeship, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’ll learn an enormous amount, meet some fantastic people and hopefully have a lot of fun along the way."
Katie's experience is a reminder that trusteeship isn't just about what you can contribute. It's also an opportunity to learn, build relationships and see the charity sector from a different perspective.
And you don't need to have all the answers to get started. Whether it's asking better questions, sharing your fundraising expertise or bringing a fresh perspective to the boardroom, there's plenty that fundraisers can offer.
Explore more stories from our Trustees, staff and wider sector.
