Chair volunteer roles
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!
This is an exciting opportunity to influence and impact the educational experience and outcomes of children in east Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Hartlepool. At the heart of our trust is the aim to nurture, educate, achieve and transform the lives of all young people within the communities we serve across the North East.
We are a mixed Multi-Academy Trust, with eight schools (6 primary, 2 secondary) and a mix of community and Church of England schools. We are a fully inclusive, working with a range of stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and destinations for our pupils. We also have a national research school, which aims to build and strengthen networks of schools throughout the region and help them access effective education research and implement it in everyday practice.
The Chair of our Trust Board of Directors helps shape and guide our passionate volunteers and staff team through clear leadership to the trust’s Board of Directors, embedding the trust's values and culture throughout the organisation.
In addition to the general role of all Non-Executive Directors/Trustees, the role of the Chair is:
1. Strategic leadership: To ensure the board and the CEO have an effective shared purpose, vision, values and strategic priorities.
2. Leading the governance team: To ensure the board has the right people with the right skills, attributes, motivations and behaviours to work effectively as a team and hold annual 1:1 conversations with non-executive directors and Local Governing Committee Chairs.
3. Working with leaders: To ensure professional relationships with the CEO and the Chairs of the schools’ Local Governing Committees. To lead the Chairs and Vice Chairs Forum.
4. Influencing improvement and outcomes: To ensure the Board is focused on the trust’s strategic priorities and the ongoing improvement of all of its schools and outcomes for pupils.
5. Leading governance business: To work with the CEO and the Clerk to the Directors to ensure the business of the Board and its Committees is planned, managed and actioned effectively.
6. To review the trust’s management accounts on a monthly basis, taking any appropriate action to maintain financial viability.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chair of the Board of Trustees
The Well Women Centre is a local charity that offers mental health, support and wellbeing services to women and girls in the Wakefield District. We have a long history of enabling women and their families to turn their lives around.
Volunteers play an important role within the centre and we have a diverse, hard-working Board of Trustees who guide and support the Well Women Centre.
Due to retirement, we are looking for a Chair of our Board of Trustees, to help continue the effective working of the current board and maintain the good relationship with the CEO, staff and volunteers at the centre.
We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience:
- Experience of effectively Chairing meetings; in a professional, public or third sector setting
- Knowledge of the Third Sector in Wakefield District
- Strategic Planning
- Understanding of financial statements and budgeting to support overseeing the charity's finances
Time commitment:
- 8 board meetings a year, in-person
- Teams sub group meetings; 8 a year
- Adhoc WWC events
What we can offer you:
- Full induction to centre; board level and operational level
- Training and COD opportunities
- Travel expenses
- Giving back to the community
Closing date: 31st August
Please note that it is a genuine occupational qualification that a female takes on this role, and the post is exempt under section 7 (2) (e) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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!
Role Description
This is a part-time, unpaid role for a Chair of Trustees for Equilore, a mental health charity located in Croughton, Northamptonshire. The Chair of Trustees will be responsible for collaborating with other board members to guide and support the organisational mission, developing and maintaining policies and procedures, ensuring financial stability and accountability, monitoring and evaluating organizational performance, and participating in fundraising and strategic planning activities, working closely with the Founding Director.
Qualifications
- Experience in governance, strategic planning, and policy development in Charities.
- Financial acumen and understanding of non-profit financial management or fundraising
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills
- Commitment to the mission and values of Equilore - Equine Therapy and Learning
- Previous board experience is advantageous
- Background in healthcare, therapy, or equine-related fields is a plus
Time Commitment
- Board meetings: 6 times per year (2–3 hours each, plus prep)
- Regular contact with the Founding Director (monthly check-ins)
- Emails, reviewing documents (budgets, policies, reports)
- Ad hoc support during funding bids, strategic planning, safeguarding issues, or crisis management
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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!
One opportunity can change everything.
A small loan can spark a business. A digital bank account can build a future. A savings group can support a whole village. At Opportunity International UK, we believe in the power of tools and trust - and now, we’re looking for a new Chair of Trustees to help guide the next chapter of our story.
We’re a Christian charity with deep roots in financial inclusion, equipping people across Africa with the means to lift themselves out of poverty with dignity. Our Microfinance Plus model brings together access to finance, digital innovation, agricultural support and hands-on training. And we’ve seen how these tools transform families, futures and whole communities.
As Chair, you won’t just lead our Board. You’ll shape strategy, strengthen culture, and support our senior leadership across both Opportunity International UK and our investment subsidiary, OMIL. You’ll champion governance, nurture donor relationships, and bring wisdom and encouragement to our partnerships, from HRH The Princess Royal to cocoa farmers in Ghana.
This is more than a governance role. It’s an invitation to be part of something bold, hopeful and deeply impactful.
We’re looking for someone with strategic leadership experience, a strong Christian faith, and a deep commitment to inclusion and impact. Experience in the charity sector or inclusive finance is helpful, but most of all, we’re looking for someone who believes that everyone deserves the chance to thrive.
If that sounds like your kind of place, we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact Adam Stacey, Managing Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your expression of interest should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
*In accordance with the equality act 2010 it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.
Closing date: 13 October 2025
Interviews with Opportunity International UK: w/c 27 October and w/c 3 November 2025
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!
Irise International is at a pivotal and exciting moment in our journey to achieve menstrual justice.
We are a small but globally respected charity based in Sheffield, working across the UK and East Africa to end menstrual injustice by shifting power to young activists and grassroots leaders. Our work is bold, inclusive, and grounded in lived experience. From launching youth-led policy tools in UK schools to co-hosting pan-African feminist gatherings, we amplify the voices of people who menstruate in spaces they’ve historically been excluded from.
We’ve just launched our 2025–2030 strategy and are entering a crucial phase of development. We’re building new income streams, deepening youth leadership, and evolving into a post-founder organisation under new leadership. We’re also piloting exciting collaborations—with councils, universities, and feminist businesses—while supporting our small team with the structure they need to thrive.
Our current Chair will step down in 2025, and we’re seeking someone to work alongside them and our CEO over the next 6–12 months to support a smooth and values-led transition.
This is a unique opportunity to step into a hands-on, relational governance role where your voice will help shape the next chapter of an ambitious and radically hopeful organisation.
We’re looking for someone who can:
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Lead with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to equity
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Champion inclusive, youth-led governance that centres marginalised voices
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Act as a sounding board and strategic partner to the CEO
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Facilitate a collaborative and engaged board culture
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Support fundraising, advocacy, and strategic partnerships where appropriate
We particularly welcome interest from individuals with lived or professional experience in menstrual health, youth-led activism, gender equity, or anti-oppressive practice. We value non-traditional leadership journeys and want this role to be accessible and sustainable for the right person.
As Chair, your responsibilities will include:
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Supporting the CEO between board meetings and leading their annual appraisal
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Chairing quarterly, inclusive board meetings
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Supporting board recruitment and mentoring
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Supporting strategic reflection on partnerships, funding, and risk
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Upholding Irise’s values and accountability to our menstrual justice framework
This voluntary role requires an average of 3–4 hours per month. We offer flexibility and support with access needs, caring responsibilities, or other adjustments. Travel expenses are reimbursed.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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!
Age UK Hammersmith and Fulham is seeking a dynamic person as our next Chair. Building on recent success you will ensure our Board delivers its strategy for local people working closely with our Chief Executive.
What will you be doing?
In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, the duties of the Chair include the following.
- Providing leadership to the organisation and the board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to provide greater public benefit
- Chairing and facilitating board meetings
- Giving direction to board policy-making
- Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented
- Representing the organisation at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate
- Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making
With the Chief Executive:
- Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required, for example annual general meeting
- Setting agendas for board and other general meetings
- Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning
- Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaising with the chief executive (if staff are employed) to achieve this
- Where staff are employed:
- Liaising with the chief executive to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate
- Leading the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the chief executive
- Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels
What are we looking for?
- Able to think strategically and creatively to enhance the development and prosperity of Age UK Hammersmith and Fulham
- Have independent judgement combined with the ability to challenge appropriately.
- They will have to read and analyze documents and should be able to provide constructive feedback.
- Ability to work effectively as a member of a team to ensure constructive decision making, including speaking openly on controversial subjects to enhance discussion and to enable the views of others to be explored.
- Good interpersonal skills including oral and written communication.
- Know the third sector, have been a Trustee for another charity, and have a real interest in older people.
- Strong leadership, people management skills and the ability to chair meetings effectively.
- An understanding of legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, together with an understanding of the financial aspects of running a charity.
- An understanding of the way in which the Third Sector works.
- Possess integrity, objectivity, accountability, honesty
What difference will you make?
They will have a leading role in helping to shape the organisation for the future and ensure that older people in Hammersmith and Fulham are getting the support to live longer and better.
To apply please submit your CV and covering letter
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.
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!
Chair of North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service
Our Charity
North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service (NSDAS) supports anyone affected by domestic abuse and their children living in the boroughs of Elmbridge, Spelthorne and Epsom and Ewell. We provide free, confidential and independent advice, skilled practical help and ongoing emotional support and information, regardless of sex, race, ability, gender, religion or income level.
Historically the service was provided as part of Citizens Advice Elmbridge (West). We have operated as an independent charity since April 2024 (charity number 1203855) and this is an exciting time to help shape the strategy and direction of the organisation.
The board currently comprises of nine Trustees.The current Chair is looking to step down by Christmas 2025 but will remain as a Trustee to provide continuity and support.
The Role
In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the chair include the following.
·Providing leadership to the organisation and the board, ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes to provide greater public benefit.
·Chairing and facilitating board meetings.
·Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented.
·Representing the organisation at functions and meetings. Acting as a spokesperson as appropriate.
·Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making.
With the chief executive
·Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required.
·Setting agendas for board meetings and other general meetings.
·Developing the board of trustees. This includes induction, training, appraisal and succession planning.
·Addressing conflict within the board and the organisation.
·Liaising with the chief executive to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and providing support where required.
·Developing relationships with our partner organisations.
·Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels and conducting exit interviews when required.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Village Preschool E17 is a small charity in Walthamstow offering high-quality early years education. We’re currently undergoing a strategic transformation to improve operations, strengthen sustainability, and deepen our community impact.
What will you be doing?
Village Preschool E17 is a small, community-based educational charity in Walthamstow, providing high-quality early years education to local families. We are currently entering an exciting phase of transformation, and we’re seeking a new Chair of Trustees to guide us through this journey.
As Chair, you will play a vital leadership role in ensuring strong governance, strategic direction, and a sustainable future for the preschool. You’ll work closely with the Headteacher of Preschool and a committed board of trustees to improve operations, shape long-term plans, and uphold our values and charitable mission. You’ll also provide support and supervision to the Headteacher, lead termly board meetings, and act as a key representative of the organisation.
This role is both strategic and supportive, requiring sound judgement, strong interpersonal skills, and a collaborative leadership style. We’re looking for someone with experience in governance, leadership, or strategic planning—ideally within the charity, education, or early years sector. You should be confident in leading group discussions, supporting senior staff, and helping to identify funding and sponsorship opportunities.
If you’re passionate about early childhood education and community development, and want to use your skills to make a lasting local impact, we’d love to hear from you.
What are we looking for?
Leadership and Governance:
- Lead the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance, strategic oversight, and compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.
- Chair termly trustee meetings and ensure all trustees are actively engaged and informed.
- Support the recruitment, induction, and development of trustees to build a strong and effective board.
- Ensure board decisions are actioned and followed up appropriately.
Support and Supervision:
- Provide regular line management and support to the Head of Preschool, including:
- Leading the annual performance appraisal.
- Acting as a sounding board for strategic and operational issues.
Communication and Representation:
- Main point of contact between the Board and the Head of Preschool.
- Create a positive, open relationship with staff, trustees, and stakeholders.
Strategic Oversight:
- Lead on the long-term development of the board and organisational planning.
- Facilitate effective collaboration and decision-making across the board.
- Take urgent action between meetings when necessary (not including decision-making unless explicitly authorised by the board).
Crisis Response:
- Act quickly and effectively in the event of emergencies or significant issues, working closely with the Head and trustees to coordinate an appropriate response.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Experience in governance, leadership, or strategic oversight—preferably within a charity, education, or early years setting.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lead and facilitate group discussions and decision-making.
- Confidence in supervising and supporting senior staff.
- A genuine interest in early childhood education and community development.
Desirable:
- Knowledge of charity regulation, Ofsted requirements, or early years sector.
- Previous experience on a board or in a chairing role.
- Local to Waltham Forest or strong understanding of the local community.
What difference will you make?
As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of Village Preschool E17. Your leadership will help guide our charity through an exciting period of transformation—strengthening governance, improving operations, and ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality early years education to local families.
You will be a key source of support for our Head of Preschool and a driving force behind a collaborative, effective trustee board. By bringing your skills and insight to strategic planning, compliance, and funding development, you will directly impact the lives of the children and families we serve.
This is a meaningful opportunity to use your experience for good—helping a valued local charity remain sustainable, inclusive, and deeply rooted in its community. Your voice, leadership, and vision could help secure a brighter future for Village Preschool E17.
Before you apply
Please provide a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience.
**We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will close the opportunity once we've found the right person to join our board - early applications are encouraged.**
Location: UK-wide (remote, with occasional in-person meetings)
Time commitment: Approx. 2-3 days per month
Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
The League Against Cruel Sports is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to provide strategic leadership to our board and support our CEO and senior team in driving forward our mission: to end cruelty to animals in the name of ‘sport’.
This is an exciting moment to join us. Following a reset earlier this year, our new CEO is reinvigorating our strategy, creating huge opportunity to build momentum and make lasting change for animals and nature. As our current Interim Chair prepares to step down, we are looking for a confident, compassionate leader to take up the baton and help shape our future direction.
We are proud to be Britain’s leading animal welfare charity tackling the use of animals in cruel sports. From securing the landmark Hunting Act 2004 to protecting animals at our wildlife reserves, through education, lobbying and campaigning, we are determined to redefine what is acceptable and inspire positive change.
As Chair, you will:
- Lead and support a committed Board of Trustees
- Partner with the CEO to ensure good governance and strategic progress
- Champion our vision, values and objectives with key stakeholders
- Help strengthen our impact and resilience for the future
We’re looking for:
- Experience of the charity sector, charity governance and an understanding of charity regulation
- Channels and routes of influence to bolster the work of the organisation
- A demonstrable commitment to the aims of the League, and ideally some background in the animal protection sector or adjacent sectors i.e. conservation, environment
- Excellent interpersonal skills, integrity and a collaborative mindset
Its important that candidates are able to commit the required amount of time to support the organisation, particularly through the coming period.
If you believe in a kinder future for animals and are ready to make a meaningful difference, we’d love to hear from you.
To find out more:
A candidate information pack is available on request and you are also able to have an informal conversation about the role with our CEO.
Deadline for applications: 19 September 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The City of Oxford Charity dates back to 1700 and now is embarking on an exciting new phase. Additional funding, grant making, and a major almshouse refurbishment are all part of our commitment to supporting those most in need in the city.
We are proud of our heritage and the Chair will share our passion and enthusiasm for the future. They will deliver strategic leadership, strong governance, and act as an ambassador for the Charity. Working with the CEO and fellow board members, they will uphold our mission and ensure we continue to have a meaningful impact on the City.
Key responsibilities are:
- Lead the Board in setting and delivering strategic direction.
- Ensure effective governance and legal compliance.
- Support and hold the CEO accountable for day-to-day operations.
- Act as an ambassador for the charity, building relationships with stakeholders and the local community.
- Champion the needs and well-being of our almshouse residents.
We Are Looking For
- A deep commitment to our mission and values.
- Experience operating in a senior executive role within the private, public, or charity sectors.
- Strong understanding of governance, finance, and strategy.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of Oxford’s social and economic landscape.
- Availability to meet regularly with the CEO and dedicate time to the charity’s work.
Next steps
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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!
This is an opportunity to play a key role in the leadership of Sussex Area Ramblers by supporting the Chair in the oversight and direction of all Area activities, making sure that they are consistent, integrated and in line with Ramblers' mission and strategy.
The Ramblers, which celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2025, is the only charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to improving Britain’s most popular and least-known walking places. We’re committed to campaigning to keep our countryside open to all and to fighting for the things that matter most to walkers. We lead the way, and the walks, for a vibrant community united by the joys of walking, helping everyone get more out of their walks.
The Vice-Chair supports the Area Chair in the leadership of Ramblers' activities in East and West Sussex including the provision through the Groups in the Area of organised walks, helping to ensure the Groups are run well, follow good practice and join in national/Area initiatives, the protection of rights of way, and and the preservation and conservation of, the countryside, includung representing the Area to external stakeholders.
The Vice-Chair deputises for the Area Chair, as required, at meetings of the Area leadership teams (Area Council and Area Executive Committee), represents the Area at meetings of the Ramblers' South East Regional Cluster and, in agreement with the Area Chair, leads specific projects in which the Area is engaged, making sure in all cases that Ramblers' policies and procedures are followed with a view to ensuring that the Area, its members and volunteers are kept safe and legally compliant.
The Vice-Chair supports the Chair in managing the Area's working relationship with local authorities, organisations and politicians.
The Vice-Chair assists the Chair by making sure that the Area follows all of the required governance, including AGMs and attendance at Ramblers' General Council Meetings.
The role holderwill work closely with the Chair and other members of the Area Executive Committee and Area Council, and where necessary seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' central office.
You will need to be a member of the Ramblers and live in East or West Sussex to hold the role.
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.
Letchworth Foodbank is seeking an inspiring and strategic Chair of the Board to lead the next chapter of our growth.
We have a clear mission: the prevention or relief of poverty in Letchworth, Hitchin and Baldock in particular, but not exclusively, by providing emergency food supplies and financial support to individuals in need and/or charities or other organisations working to relieve poverty.
Receiving donations and grants of over £200,000 per annum, the Foodbank distributes over 40 tonnes of food and £50,000 of food vouchers every year to those that need it most.
Our strategy is not to stand still, but to increase our reach and impact, and we require a Chair that shares our ambitions and will help drive a clear strategy forwards with the Trustees, working closely with the Foodbank Director.
What are we looking for?
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A Chair with knowledge of and commitment to tackling and relieving poverty.
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Experience in leadership, governance, and board-level roles (charity or voluntary sector preferred).
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and unite people.
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An understanding of the challenges faced by small charities and grassroots organisations.
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A strategic thinker with sound judgment and an inclusive leadership style.
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An understanding of safeguarding, equality, and community engagement principles.
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Experience of financial management and a broad understanding of charity finance issues.
At Letchworth Foodbank, we champion diversity. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work.
#Chair #Leadership #Endfoodpoverty #Chair of the Board of Trustees
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Founded in 2011 by Sophie Hayes, a British woman trafficked into sexual exploitation, Sophie Hayes Foundation’s work has always been centred around sustainable freedom. This means freedom from exploitation, slavery, and trafficking, and also the freedom to look to the future with renewed confidence, rebuilt skills, and a sense of purpose for survivors. Our mission of sustainable freedom has continued over the last 13 years, however, the forms of exploitation, as well as the landscape of support to survivors, have changed beyond recognition. To respond to this, we launched a new strategy in 2024, which set out how we will ‘meet survivors where they are and take them to where they want to be’
Sophie Hayes Foundation aims to work in a proactive and collaborative manner. The Chair plays an important part in setting the tone and bringing all stakeholders together.
Governance and Culture: As Chair, you provide appropriate leadership, oversight and support to the Board and management team on strategy, governance and risk, ensuring that we meet our obligations and responsibilities. The Trustee Board is made up of a diverse group of people, each bringing their own ideas, skills and networks to support the executive team. A new CEO joined the charity about 18 months ago. She has worked to build a strong team and achieved a great sense of community amongst staff, volunteers and programme participants. She worked closely with the Board in the development of a new strategy, is building strong relationships with donors and supporters, and continues to oversee the management of the day to day - with an eye on both long-term needs and immediate challenges.
Development: We rely on support from foundations, key donors and the public, and as Chair, you will be an important representative of the organisation, working with the CEO and other Trustees to build and maintain strong relationships.
Advocacy: Sophie Hayes Foundation is working to improve understanding of the Modern Slavery sector, enhance understanding of the issues, build recognition of the impact of our programmes and influence key decision makers. As Chair, along with other Trustees, you may be called on to assist the CEO with advocacy and to build our brand.
Commitment: We have a bold vision to increase our impact through a combination of direct programming with survivors and through advocacy to build awareness and support. You will need to have the time to contribute to our growth strategy by chairing Board meetings, supporting Committee Chairs, Board officers, and our small but mighty management team, and represent Sophie Hayes Foundation to key stakeholders.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chair of Trustees – School Library Association
Location: Remote, with occasional in-person events
Time commitment: One day per week
Term: 3-year term (term renewable once; a maximum of six years)
Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)
Deadline to apply: 25th September
Are you a strategic leader with a passion for reading and equity in education? Do you want to help shape the future of school libraries and support the next generation of readers?
This is a pivotal moment for the School Library Association (SLA). With a new CEO, a refreshed staff team, and bold plans to launch a new organisational strategy, we are looking for a dynamic and ambitious Chair of Trustees to join us.
We punch well above our weight as a small national charity with big ambitions. You will be joining at a time of transformation, as we strengthen our funding pipeline, build corporate and strategic partnerships, and grow our visibility on the national stage. We recently represented the SLA at Downing Street for the Government’s Year of Reading, and the opportunity to drive systemic change in support of school libraries has never been greater.
We are looking for a Chair who:
- Brings strategic leadership and sound financial oversight
- Can support and challenge the CEO in equal measure
- Has strong relationship-building skills and ambassadorial presence
- Is excited to help shape a new strategy and governance structure
- Shares our passion for reading, education, and inclusion
If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you. Download the recruitment pack and apply by 25th September 2025.
Helping schools develop vibrant reading and learning communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as the Chair of Trustees for our charity. This is a unique opportunity to guide our mission, shape our strategy, and inspire positive change.
What will you be doing?
About us
Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning invests in people and their potential. Established in 2004 and nicknamed the “54-acre classroom”, our work uses a unique combination of adventurous and environmental activities, a working farm and horticulture gardens to reconnect people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities with nature through outdoor learning.
Our mission is “to support people to overcome obstacles in life through nurturing them in nature, encouraging them in play and curiosity, challenging them in risk and adventure, and engaging them in outdoor learning. Cultivating connections to the world around them, and inspiring positive lasting change.”
The Centre is located in south west Essex and works with over 18,000 young people each year on a wide range of programmes that improve health and wellbeing and foster personal development, using our unique blend activities. We do this by using the activities to generate a wide range of tailored programmes designed to encourage team building, problem solving and communication skills, as well as build confidence, enthuse and motivate, and raise aspirations.
Over the past ten years, the Centre has grown significantly its revenue, it’s profitability and its influence, such that it is now in a strong position and faces huge demand for its services.
The Role
As the Chair of Trustees, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring effective governance and strategic oversight. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive, you will help steer the organisation toward its goals while upholding our values and ensuring accountability. The role has become vacant due to the retirement of the current Chair.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.
- Chair board meetings effectively, ensuring productive discussions and sound decision-making.
- Work with the Chief Executive Officer to set and review strategic priorities and objectives.
- Act as an ambassador for the organisation, representing its interests to stakeholders and communities.
- Support the recruitment and development of a diverse and skilled Board of Trustees.
- Oversee compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.
- Ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable and aligned with its mission.
What are we looking for?
What We Are Looking For
We are seeking a dedicated and inspiring leader who shares our passion for creating a better future. The ideal candidate will bring:
- Experience in governance or leadership roles, ideally within non-profit, public, or corporate sectors.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with trustees, staff, and external stakeholders.
- Strategic thinking and the ability to navigate complex challenges.
- A good understanding of charity governance and relevant legislation (or a willingness to develop this knowledge).
- A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of leadership.
Time Commitment and Term
The Chair of Trustees role is voluntary, though reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. The time commitment is approximately 10 hours/month, including board meetings, sub-committee involvement, and occasional events.
Inclusive Recruitment
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities and are dedicated to equality of opportunity in our recruitment process.
Join us in this exciting journey of leadership and impact. Together, we can shape a brighter future for generations to come.
What difference will you make?
As the Chair of Trustees, you will be joining the organisation at an exciting time. The Board is keen to build on the growth of the last ten years and increase the Centre's capacity in order to be able to serve more young people; your strong leadership, vision and strategy will help make this a reality.
Before you apply
If you would be interested in exploring the possibility of becoming the new Chair of Trustees at Lambourne End, we would like to invite you to contact the Chief Executive Officer to arrange a visit to the Centre and an informal chat; please contact us on the Reach platform.
Additionally, you would be very welcome to have an informal discussion about the role with the outgoing Chair; please let us know if you would like us to arrange this.
To formally apply for this role, please send a CV and a covering letter detailing why you are interested in the role and how your experience aligns with our vision.