Chair and trustees volunteer roles
Activity Alliance looking for a Chair and three new Trustees who will add value to the charity and exciting journey ahead. You will bring your expertise and/or lived experience to drive meaningful change for disabled people. Two Trustees will be Board-appointed, and one will be Member-appointed. Their start times will vary. We are pleased that you are interested in joining us to work towards our vision and thank you for your interest.
The key responsibilities of the Chair will be:
- Provide visionary leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that Activity Alliance fulfils its mission and objectives.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the organisation.
- Oversee the governance framework, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Lead the Board in monitoring organisational performance and ensuring effective risk management.
- Act as an ambassador for Activity Alliance, promoting our vision and mission. This includes being a spokesperson for the charity with the media and at events.
- Champion the voices of disabled people, advocating for change and influencing policy and decision-making at the highest levels.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including partners, funders, and government bodies.
The key responsibilities of the Trustees will be:
- Have outstanding commitment to Activity Alliance with a strong understanding of the organisation’s values as well as of the Nolan Seven Principles of Public Life.
- Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role in giving strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- Ensure that the organisation complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- Safeguard the reputation and values of the organisation.
- Represent the organisation at functions and meetings when appropriate, and act as an ambassador for Activity Alliance.
Currently, we are particularly interested in recruiting Trustees with understanding, skills, and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Legal
- Commercial and corporate affairs
- Income generation
- Application of AI and technology
The posts are for an initial term of up to three years, which may be extended for two further terms of three years.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About FilmBath
FilmBath/ Bath Film Festival has been a key part of the city’s cultural life since 1990. Renowned for its commitment to diversity, innovation and inclusion in film, the festival celebrates stories from around the globe, champions underrepresented voices, and brings cinema to new audiences in unique and engaging ways.
In addition to the flagship annual festival, FilmBath strives to collaborate with other organisations and festivals for year-round events designed to bring cinema into new spaces and reach wider audiences. An example of this was the new Movie at the Museum strand, part of the Curious Minds festival, which creates unique screenings and experiences in collaboration with local heritage sites, museums and cultural venues.
The FilmBath Team
FilmBath is a registered charity with no permanent staff. The festival is led by a freelance Festival Director, who is responsible for shaping the creative vision and structure of the festival, managing budgets, and reporting to the Board of Trustees. The Director also builds and maintains key partnerships with film and arts organisations, venues and cinemas, and leads on marketing, audience development, and stakeholder engagement.
A volunteer programming committee works under the direction of the Director to select the films shown at the festival. This committee helps ensure the programme reflects FilmBath’s values while appealing to a wide and diverse audience.
Delivery of the festival is supported by a small number of freelance production and technical staff, contracted by the Director, and a team of dedicated volunteer stewards who provide vital support during festival events.
This lean, collaborative structure allows FilmBath to remain agile and sustainable, delivering high-quality programming while nurturing a strong sense of community.
Sector Context
The cultural sector is facing a period of significant transition. Shrinking public funding, increased competition for sponsorship, and changing audience behaviours have created challenges for many arts organisations. Within the film festival landscape, these pressures are amplified by the growing availability of on-demand content and the rising costs of delivery. Yet, this moment also presents major opportunities: audiences are increasingly seeking shared, local, and meaningful cultural experiences – exactly what festivals like FilmBath are positioned to offer. With a strong identity, a collaborative spirit, and a dedicated community, FilmBath is well placed to reimagine what a regional film festival can be in the years ahead.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Chair of the Board of Trustees to help shape FilmBath’s strategic future. This is an exciting opportunity to join at a critical point in our development, supporting the organisation’s ambition to grow sustainably while retaining its distinctive identity and values.
As Chair, you will work closely with the freelance Director and the Board to provide strategic leadership, champion fundraising efforts, and strengthen governance. With a lean delivery model, the Chair will play a visible and active role in helping to secure the long-term stability and impact of the organisation.
You’ll bring experience in business, fundraising and strategic planning to complement the Director’s creative and operational strengths, and have the enthusiasm to work collaboratively towards a shared vision.
FilmBath is at a pivotal moment in its development. Insights from a recent Strategy Day identified key priorities for the Board, including defining the festival’s cultural role within the local and national landscape, strengthening brand identity, and building long-term financial resilience through strategic fundraising and partnerships. The incoming Chair will be instrumental in supporting these developments, working closely with the Director to implement a clear, bold vision for the organisation’s future. The current chair of the board will be available to support handover to the incoming chair.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring the organisation fulfils its charitable purpose.
- Support the Director in shaping and delivering FilmBath’s long-term vision.
- Champion fundraising efforts, including donor cultivation, sponsorship and bid development.
- Ensure good governance, financial oversight and compliance with charity law.
- Act as an ambassador for FilmBath within the cultural, business and philanthropic sectors.
- Lead and facilitate Board meetings and promote active trustee engagement.
Person Specification
- Demonstrable experience in business strategy, income generation or fundraising, ideally within the cultural or charitable sectors.
- Proven leadership and governance skills, with an understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of a charity trustee.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A collaborative and supportive approach to working with the Director and fellow trustees.
- Passion for film, cultural engagement, and FilmBath’s mission and values.
Time Commitment
- Quarterly Board of Trustees meetings
- Monthly one-to-one meetings with the Director
- Attendance at key events, including the annual festival and occasional stakeholder meetings
- Participation in sub-committees or working groups as needed
Strategic Priorities for the Board
The FilmBath Board of Trustees has identified several key priorities for 2025 and beyond:
- Clarifying our identity: defining our unique position as a festival rooted in Bath with national credibility
- Strengthening our brand: creating a compelling narrative to engage audiences, funders and the wider industry
- Investing in fundraising: growing our income beyond ticket sales by engaging major sponsors, trusts and individual donors
- Ensuring sustainability: building a delivery model that mitigates key person risk and secures long-term stability
- Deepening community impact: continuing to deliver diverse, inclusive, and memorable film experiences across the year
The new Chair will play a leading role in advancing these strategic priorities, supported by a dedicated Director, a skilled Board, and a passionate volunteer team.
Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience to
Deadline for applications: 5pm on 28 May 2025.
FilmBath is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We actively encourage applications from people who are underrepresented in the film and charity sectors, including people from global majority backgrounds, disabled people and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Brooke is seeking two new board members with specific background or experience in the following:
- Digital/technology transformation
- Fundraising – individual, institutional, or major philanthropy
- International development
- Legal and / or governance
We are proud to be Brooke. We are resourceful, share new ideas and help each other succeed. Together we make change happen.
Brooke’s work across Africa, Asia and Latin America transforms the lives of animals and people in the communities we serve. With our ambitious plans for growth throughout 2025-26, these are key roles to support Brooke as we soon develop an ambitious new global strategy from 2027.
We are currently seeking new members to join our highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated board, bringing invaluable experience and expertise to drive our mission forward. You will be joining a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated team, together pursuing the goal of global compassion and healthcare for working horses, donkeys and mules and the communities that depend on them.
Working closely with the Chief Executive and senior leadership team you will ensure Brooke effectively delivers its inspiring mission and is governed to the highest of standards. Your responsibilities will include shaping and reviewing our strategic objectives, guaranteeing alignment with our charitable goals, and maximising public benefit.
We are seeking individuals with wide-ranging experience and a proven track record of strategic leadership. Your ability to challenge constructively, coupled with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, will be instrumental in fostering a supportive yet empowered environment. As a member of our diverse board of Trustees, you will contribute to shaping policies and priorities that ensure Brooke's financial stability and long-term impact.
If you are passionate about the welfare of working animals and the communities they serve, and are ready to make a tangible difference, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of Brooke. Be part of something truly meaningful by becoming a board member today.
Closing date: Sunday 25th May.
Interviews to be held w/c 2 June.
Vice Chair of Trustees - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!
At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Vice Chair of Trustees to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country.
We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you.
Who We're Looking For:
We are looking to recruit a Vice Chair who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve.
As Vice Chair Trustee, You Will:
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Collaborate with the Chair to steer the direction of the organisation and chair meetings in the Chair’s absence.
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Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation
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Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity.
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Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose.
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Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability.
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Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team
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Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts.
What We Offer:
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Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need.
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Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks.
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Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.
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Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us.
Expectations:
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Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role
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Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely.
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Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work.
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External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually.
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Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work.
If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you!
To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Mencap New Forest is seeking a Chair of Trustees to lead our Board, drive our vision, and champion people with learning disabilities. This is your chance to make a lasting impact on our community.
What will you be doing?
Role Summary
Our Board of Trustees work to improve the lives of people with a learning disability, exercising good governance and following all necessary policies and procedures.
The Chair of Trustees will:
- Provide leadership and direction to the board of Trustees and enable the Board to fulfill their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation.
- Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, company law and other relevant legislation/regulations.
- Work in partnership with the chief executive, senior staff members and support the employees, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation; and to optimise the relationship between the Board of Trustees and the staff.
- Facilitate the Board of Trustees in stimulating well-rounded and carefully considered strategic decision-making.
What are we looking for?
Person Specification
As an organisation we are particularly keen to ensure that our Trustees are fully representative of the community in which we work and we would warmly welcome applications from people with a diverse range of background, ethnicity, gender, culture and physical ability.
Essential
- Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities.
- Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship and adhering to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
- Strategic and forward looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims.
- Good, independent judgement, political impartiality and the ability to think creatively in the context of the organisation and external environment. Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues.
- Balancing tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.
Desirable
- Leadership skills exercised through a period change
- Experience of chairing meetings, committee work, some experience of charity fundraising
What difference will you make?
As Chair of Trustees, you will have a profound impact on the future of New Forest Mencap. Your leadership will help us continue and expand our vital services, from social clubs and life skills workshops to advocacy and employability support. By shaping our strategy and ensuring strong governance, you will enable us to reach more people with learning disabilities, empower their families, and build a more inclusive community.
Time commitment
Trustee appointments will initially be for a term of 3 years which may be extended to a second term, or more. The Board of Trustees currently meets monthly in New Milton. We aim to meet for 2 hours, although recent increased activity has tended to extend the time to 3 hours. *The Board recognizes that it would be better to move to a bi-monthly or quarterly schedule, and would like to do so in future. Trustees receive Committee meeting papers a week before the meeting to enable them to prepare for the meeting.
Before you apply
The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting New Forest Mencap with their Chair recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.
Please provide:
· A supporting statement, clarifying your motivation for application for the role of Trustee and identifying how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role
· A comprehensive CV including description of your achievements and contact details of two referees.
Please send applications and enquiries to: the TrusteeWorks team at the email address provided.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Help thousands of older people in Essex live their best lives.
Do you believe every older person deserves to live a happy, connected and dignified life? Join Age Well East as our next Chair of Trustees and lead positive change across one of the UK’s most populous and diverse counties.
Age Well East supported over 4,000 older people last year through nearly 400 volunteers and 23 staff, delivering befriending, benefits advice, social activities, and mental health support. We operate virtually and face-to-face, from our base in Clacton and across the community.
Yet, challenges remain. An estimated 47,000 older people in Essex live in poverty, 29,000 experience loneliness, and we know that in neighbouring Suffolk, 179,000 older people currently have little support
.The Role
We’re seeking a new Chair to guide the next phase of our development. You'll provide strategic leadership, act as line manager to the CEO, and ensure we continue to grow our impact while maintaining strong governance.
The expected time commitment is around 2–3 days per month, aggregated across the month to support flexibility. Board meetings are held quarterly (mostly via video call), with additional engagement as needed.
To ensure a smooth handover, the successful candidate will be invited to Co-Chair alongside our current Chair, Nick Avery. The length of this transition period is flexible and will be tailored to the new Chair’s preference, with full transition expected by early 2026 at the latest.
About You
You’ll share our belief that all older people should be able to Age Well. You’ll be collaborative, values-driven, and a confident leader able to support our CEO and work effectively with our Board. While prior Chair experience isn’t essential, we are looking for someone who has served on a Board—whether in the charity, public or private sector. Fundraising experience is a plus, and so is a strong network or voice in support of older people.
If you wish to discuss this role further before applying, please contact the Chair via our website or Linkedin
To support and empower people in their later years


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Landmark Arts Centre is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to continue their journey. The independent charity responsible for operating one of the largest multidisciplinary arts venues in south-west London.
Who they are
The Landmark is an independent Arts Charity responsible for operating one of the largest multidisciplinary arts venues in south-west London. For 30 years, they have been a vital cultural and creative hub for all. Housed in a stunning Grade II* listed building in Teddington, they welcome over 50,000 people annually to a rich programme of performances, classes, workshops, art fairs, exhibitions, and entertainment.
The role
They are seeking a Chairperson able to:
Be an enthusiastic advocate and ambassador of the Landmark Arts Centre and the arts in general.
Shape the future next steps to build on what they have already achieved and ensure they are able to deliver on the potential that their magnificent space offers to audiences and artists.
Work with the community and its leaders, the trustees, and the staff team in promoting well-considered strategic decision-making, effective oversight, and a culture of inclusion.
Are you interested in becoming Rowan's next Chair of Trustees? Discover how you can join our vibrant team and support adults with learning disabilities through the arts
Ideally we are seeking applications from people with a background in the following:
• Interest in supporting adults with learning disability,
• Experience as a trustee, and / or previous experience as a Chair,
• Experience in some of the following: finance, budgeting, health and safety, governance, safeguarding and/or strategy.
• Willingness to attend and represent the charity at social events, sometimes in the evenings and at weekends,
• Ability to represent the charity in the community with local dignitaries,
• Interest in the arts.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Are you looking for a volunteering role that supports the impact of the whole third sector? Infrastructure charity DataKind UK is looking for new members to join our Board of Trustees, including a Chair and Treasurer.
DataKind UK is a small charity with a vision for a strong, thriving third sector that embraces data use to become more impactful. We connect third sector organisations with data professionals to improve their decision making, problem solving, and working practices, by applying data science approaches to sector-wide challenges.
We’re looking for enthusiastic and supportive individuals to fuel our mission and direction by providing oversight of our operations, supporting with major decision-making, and advocating for our work and cause.
Being a trustee is a great way to give your time to a cause you care about, broaden your network, and develop your strategy and governance skills and knowledge. We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, and candidates with disabilities, as we would like to increase the representation of these groups in our community.
How to apply
To apply, please read our candidate pack for more detail and send a 1-2 page cover letter outlining what you would bring to the role based on the skills outlined in the candidate pack, especially highlighting if you are interested in the Chair or Treasurer role, along with your CV, by Monday 2 June.
Initial screening calls will take place during the week commencing Monday 9 June.
Interviews will take place on the 17, 18, and 19 June 2025, with the aim of new members being recruited and onboarded for the following board meeting in August.
Supporting third sector organisations to achieve their missions through increased use of data science.




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Who they are
Citizens Advice Richmond is a local charity that has helped the people of Richmond since 1940. They offer generalist advice on any issue and specialist debt advice. Citizens Advice Richmond is a member of the national Citizens Advice service, a network of around 300 local advice centres.
The role What will you do?
● Complete an introduction for your role.
● Maintain an awareness of how the local Citizens Advice is operating.
● Read papers for board meetings and attend six board meetings per year.
● Work on specific projects with other trustees or staff within the local Citizens Advice to further the strategic objectives of the local Citizens Advice.
● Provide support and assistance to the Chair and the Chief Officer in carrying out their responsibilities, acting as a ‘critical friend’ and sounding board.
● Take on specific responsibilities delegated by the Chair, e.g., supporting new trustees with their induction.
● Carry out the Chair’s duties in their absence, with the acknowledgment of the board as being capable and suitable to do so.
● Be prepared to take over as Chair in the near future.
● Be open to approaches, where appropriate, from other trustees about the work or judgment of the Chair. The Vice Chair will then discuss any issues arising with the Chair or National Citizens Advice.
● Take an active role in discussions during board meetings and work with other trustees to:
● Set policy and strategy direction, set targets, and evaluate the performance of the local Citizens Advice.
● Seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community.
● Ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers.
● Review their own work and how effectively they operate, including action for improvement.
We are seeking new Trustees and a new Chair to join our committed and dynamic Board.
We have a group of committed Trustees who support and guide the organisation in delivering its key objectives. Sadly, some of those trustees are due to step down in the next twelve months, as is the Chair, and we are beginning a process of recruiting new Trustees and a Chair.
There is excitement and expectation within the current Board and our Executive Team that along with our supporters and partners, we can achieve something special over the coming years.
To reach our potential though, requires the highest level of governance and strategic decision making, which can only be achieved with a talented, experienced and diverse Board of Trustees.
The only UK charity dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of teachers and education staff in schools, colleges and universities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As our current Chair, Tim Roberts, comes toward the end of his final term of office, we are now seeking a new Chair of Trustees to succeed Tim and support The Mayor’s Fund for London as we take forward our ambitious strategy over the coming years.
It’s a vital time for young people in London – with many facing challenges around poverty and cost of living, mental health and wellbeing, and a lack of access to opportunities and services. But at the same time, there are real opportunities, through the London Growth Plan, and the appetite of communities, businesses and education to work together to ensure young people do have the chance to thrive. The Mayor’s Fund for London is a charity at the heart of connecting these agendas, driven by the voices of young people and the organisations that support them.
As Chair of Trustees, you’ll lead a highly skilled, very engaged and diverse board of Trustees, working with a talented staff team, within an organisation which enjoys great relationships and a growing reputation as a leading voice in London. If you care passionately about young Londoners succeeding, have great connections in business, can navigate through London’s civil society and the policy landscape and have a good grasp of governance, diversity and inclusion then this exciting and unique opportunity could be the one for you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Saferworld is an independent international organisation working to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and conduct wider research and analysis. We use this evidence and learning to improve local, national and international policies and practices that can help build lasting peace. Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives, free from fear and insecurity. We are a not-for-profit organisation operational in 12 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
Saferworld is currently looking for a new Chair of the Board of Trustees. This role will be responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Saferworld, ensuring the organisation’s aims, objectives, and goals align with its governing document, as well as legal and regulatory guidelines. The ideal candidate should have a broad understanding of the charity sector as well as an understanding of how charities operate in a local context – often operating effectively in extremely challenging environments. An understanding of the UK charity context would be helpful but is not crucial.
The Board is currently reviewing different governance models, including the possibility of a Chair/Vice Chair structure. While this model is still under consideration, it would involve clearly defined roles and responsibilities, helping to balance the workload and bring diverse perspectives to the Board’s leadership. The incoming Chair should be adaptable and open to these ongoing discussions, and play a key role in shaping and refining the governance structure to ensure it aligns effectively with Saferworld’s needs.
We are interested in hearing from individuals who share our values, possess the capacity for independent and creative thinking, and bring strong leadership, relevant competence and experience to our governing body. Whether you are an experienced Chair or wanting to take your first step at senior Board level, we still want to hear from you.
Please download the recruitment pack for more information on how to apply to be the Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Closing date: 11 May 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Who we are
The Landmark Trust is one of Britain’s leading building conservation charities. With the help of our supporters, we save historic buildings in danger of being lost forever. We sensitively restore such ‘Landmarks’ and offer them a new future by making them available to everyone for short breaks. The lettings income from the 200 extraordinary buildings in our care supports their maintenance and survival in our landscape, culture and society.
Seeking Trustees
With several Board retirements this year, the Landmark Trust is looking to appoint up to three new Trustees.
We are a charity which rescues and restores significant historic buildings; and which makes these available to as many people as possible, for enjoyment and inspiration, through our holiday accommodation business.
Landmark’s Board of Trustees numbers ten individuals with a broad range of expertise and experience. The common factor is a commitment to the protection of heritage buildings, and to supporting the objectives, ethos, and aspirations of the Landmark Trust.
We welcome applications from any outstanding candidates who bring a strategic approach, good sense, and a desire to make a difference, to the Board. Some particular skills which would be of interest are set out in the detailed Trustee Brief.
We also particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups, younger applicants, and those based outside the South East.
Closing date for applications: Monday, 9 June 2025 at 5:00 PM
Interviews will be held on: Monday, 14 July 202
Lead the Board of Via, the charity delivering vital substance use, mental health and well-being services across the UK, and help provide high-quality, person-centred care to the people and communities affected.
Location: Flexible (Via has services across London, NW England and SW England)
Closing date: Tuesday 27th May
Who we are.
Via is an exceptional charity that puts people at the heart of everything we do. Over three decades, we’ve evolved from our origins as Westminster Drug Project, with a new now award-winning name and brand, into a dynamic, multi-service organisation delivering vital support across substance use, mental health, employment, sexual health, smoking cessation and youth services. With a turnover of £36m for 24/25 and remarkable growth of over a third in 2023/24, we’re now supporting over 12,500 service users annually across an expanding geographical footprint from London to Gloucestershire.
Our commitment to excellence and innovation is evident in our industry-leading services, which consistently perform significantly above the national average. We’re particularly proud to be pioneering the development of the UK’s first women-only detox facility, demonstrating our commitment to addressing crucial gaps in service provision.
Our Approach Makes Us Different
At Via, we believe in doing things differently. This starts with our commitment to staff well-being, including up to six months of full sick pay – a policy that exemplifies our trust in our people and our understanding that supporting our staff enables them to better support our service users. We achieved Investors in People Gold certification and were nominated for UK Employer of the Year and Third Sector Employer of the Year at the Investors in People Awards 2024, recognising our dedication to creating an outstanding workplace culture.
Our active Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group drives real organisational change, ensuring our services are accessible and effective for all communities. These aren’t just initiatives – they’re expressions of our core values: Care, Be Human, and Do the Right Thing, which guides everything we do.
The opportunity.
As we have experienced growth and are launching our new strategy, we had new Trustees join our Board as others have come to the end of their terms. As our current Chair, Yasmin Batliwala MBE comes to the end of her term later this year, we are looking to appoint a new Chair.
What Makes a Great Via Chair
- A Strategic Leader with proven experience operating at a senior level with a successful track record of achievement. You’ll have the personal gravitas to lead a significant, complex, national organisation, alongside the ability to lead a newly evolving and forming Board.
- Passionate About Our Cause: You will bring your expertise and passion for improving lives and reducing inequality. You’ll be someone who understands the complexity of our work yet can think strategically about our future. Your genuine enthusiasm will inspire others and strengthen our impact.
- Governance Experience: you will bring the experience of being on Boards and will work to lead the board to ensure sound financial health and accountability while effectively managing risk and continuing to innovate in service development and delivery.
- An Inclusive Champion committed to fostering diversity that reflects the communities we serve, promoting DEI training and growth, and holding staff and trustees accountable to these practices.
- A Relationship Builder with excellent interpersonal skills and diplomatic tact. You’ll develop a strong working relationship with the Chief Executive, maintain connections with key stakeholders, and represent Via as an effective ambassador.
- A Collaborative Leader who can bring people together, foster a team environment, and work in partnership with our board and team to drive our ambitious strategy.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
Diversity in governance isn’t just a goal for Via – it’s a necessity. Our services support people from every part of society, and we want our Board to reflect this diversity. We actively encourage applications from people with lived experience of addiction/recovery (whether personal or as family members/carers), and people from communities currently underrepresented at board level.
Time Commitment
The Board meets quarterly, usually in person. Including preparation time, representation at events, and strategic input, we estimate a commitment of the equivalent of 2-3 days per month. This includes:
- Four Board meetings per year
- Quarterly committee meetings
- Annual strategy and away day
- Ad hoc conversations with fellow board members and the Executive
- Occasional representation at events and meetings with key stakeholders, including at services.
Making a Difference Together
This is an extraordinary time to join Via. As we implement our new 2025-29 strategy and expand our geographical reach, innovate our evidence-based offer and increase access to more people. We’re not just growing – we’re evolving. You’ll help shape innovative services like our women’s detox facility while ensuring we maintain our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and person-centred care
Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close on Tuesday 27th May.
We’re an executive search firm working across third sector, education and membership sectors to transform leadership and inspire change.
