NDPBs need both experienced managers and leaders with commercial acumen to advise on strategic, financial, organisational, legal and operational matters together with the specialist experts who provide the authority, knowledge and intellect within the specialist field in which the body exists. As many NDPBs deal with highly specialised issues, a range of both commercial and specialist experts give credibility, insight and capability to a board.

We realise that these skills can be gained in many different private, public and voluntary sector settings - and are also common in the self-employed and those who run their own businesses.

So generally speaking, there are two types of Public Appointments which are:

• generalist business professionals e.g. marketing, finance, change, HR leaders and operational experts, to name but a few; together with
• specialist experts which include a range of academics and scientists counting environmental experts, eco toxicologists, farmers, agricultural experts, conservationists, horticultural experts and marine biologists into the mix.

So in essence anyone with the right skills, knowledge and specialist experience can be suitable for a position on the board of a public body. You don't have to have sat on a board before to consider applying and here at Defra we pride ourselves on ensuring that our opportunities are open to everyone across the broad spectrum of the community.

As a member of the board you will have the opportunity to share your knowledge and give others the benefit of your experience together with enhancing your own personal development in the form of intellectual challenge, advising on and influencing policy and practice, dealing with difficult and complex issues, collaborative decision making and driving forward an agenda for change.

And you'll certainly enjoy a real sense of purpose from such a role as the outcomes won't just affect a finite group of people but will affect the wider communities in which the body serves. This could be anything from distinct rural communities to the whole of the UK population right the way through to the global society. Imagine how great it would feel to be part of shaping the future with your efforts.

So in addition to your own personal development sitting on the board of a public body also provides you with an opportunity to add representation and support to a cause or an issue that you feel passionate about, which we believe anyone with the suitable skills, knowledge and experience can do. We need people just like you to help tackle today's issues - and tomorrow's.

Time commitments vary from one role to another and between the different bodies, but typically, you will be asked to give around 10 - 15 days a year, with some additional time required for preparation. You will be expected to attend Board Meetings and contribute to other forums which could be monthly or spread across the year.

As a board member you will also be an ambassador for the work of the body you represent and as such this commitment is infinite and should come as second nature in your day to day contribution. Additionally, we would encourage you to advocate promotion of the wider opportunities available to people you meet on a daily basis that too could provide a valuable contribution as a board member, either on the body you work with or any other NDPB.

In most cases your travel, accommodation and some living expenses are paid. Further financial compensation is also paid in some cases.