The Creative Living Centre ('CLC') is a forward-thinking mental health charity based in Prestwich, Greater Manchester.  We are now seeking a Chair for the Board of Trustees.    

The Chair provides leadership and direction to the CLC's Board of Trustees to enable the Board to fulfil its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, as well as oversight and scrutiny of the CLC's operations.   

Key responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include giving strategic direction to the Board, planning and preparing Board meetings and the AGM, chairing Board meetings, ensuring adequate support, supervision for, and appraisal of the Chief Officer, acting as a spokesperson for the charity, leading the appointment and induction of new Trustees,  appraisals of existing Trustees, sitting on committees and working with wider the Bury and Manchester mental health funding and support networks as needed.

Skills and experience required for the role

The Chair must have proven senior management experience, strong leadership skills, commitment to the CLC and its core values, integrity, strategic vision, powers of persuasion, and good independent judgment.

Prior experience or understanding of the legal responsibilities of a Trustee and the needs of mental health service users is key to this role.  Experience or understanding of the voluntary/third sector is also essential.

Commitment

The Board of Trustees meets bi-monthly.  It is important that the Chair is visible externally and within the CLC.  The Chair will be a main communicator between staff and the Board, by visiting the CLC from time to time.  The Chair will also be available to the Chief Officer on a regular basis.  Attendance at other meetings and regular contact via email is also necessary.

The time commitment for the Chair is typically the equivalent of about 2 days per month but can occasionally be greater at times of significant or urgent activities for the CLC.    Please note, this role is not remunerated.