The Institute of Fundraising (Institute) has issued an open invitation for people to join its National Convention 2006 Board.

Comprising leading figures from across the sector, the Board members work in teams of two or three, which each have responsibility for a particular fundraising discipline within the Convention. Although the Institute hopes to retain as many of the current individuals as possible, it wants to expand and diversify by attracting new members.

Gill Raikes, fundraising director at the National Trust, who has replaced Julius Wolff-Ingham, head of fundraising and marketing at the Salvation Army, as the 2006 convention board chair, said: “Thanks to Julius Wolff-Ingham’s leadership, and the commitment of the 2005 Convention Board, this year’s National Convention promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring event.

“The board plays the key role of defining the content for the annual Convention, aiming to provide an unrivalled learning experience for fundraisers.”

Previously held in Birmingham, this year’s Convention has been moved to London. Scheduled for July 11-13, the programme includes 170 streamlined sessions on a wide range of relevant and current issues, numerous networking opportunities plus evening entertainment. For more information, email convention@institute-of-fundraising.org.uk or call 020 7840 1000.