Chair of Trustees (Designate)
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!
Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London
Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (including quarterly board meetings and annual Away Day)
Type: Voluntary
Start Date: Early 2026
Join a unique West London charity creating lasting change in people’s lives
The Upper Room is seeking a Chair of Trustees (Designate) to join our Board in 2025/26 and, after a year of active trusteeship and shadowing, to step into the role of Chair when our current Chair reaches the end of their tenure in 2027.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate, values-led individual to help shape the next phase of our work, from strategic resilience to community innovation.
About Us
From small beginnings more than 35 years ago The Upper Room has grown into a thriving charity with an annual budget of around £650K.
Food provision has always been at the heart of what we do. UR4Meals serves approximately 40,000 meals a year, operating five days a week.
UR4Driving works with ex-offenders and young people identified as at risk of offending. We help them pass their driving theory test, and then provide free driving lessons. Last year 37 students gained a full driving licence with us. This has a significant impact on their employability and self-esteem, and dramatically reduces re-offending.
UR4Jobs helps people become work-ready, and supports their wellbeing.
We are still based in our original home at St Saviour’s Church near Shepherd’s Bush in west London.
About the Role
As Chair, you’ll lead a committed and skilled Board of Trustees, working closely with our CEO and senior team to guide strategy, ensure good governance and champion our impact.
You’ll also play a key role externally, acting as an ambassador to funders, partners and supporters.
We’re looking for someone who can
- Provide strategic leadership through a period of growth and innovation
- Foster a culture of inclusion and respect, both on the Board and across the organisation - Support and challenge the CEO, acting as a critical friend and sounding board
- Ensure excellent governance, compliance and risk management
- Represent the charity publicly, building relationships and influence
About You
We welcome candidates with prior Board experience as a Trustee, Chair or Non-Executive Director, and a strong commitment to social justice.
We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of disadvantage, as well as those from under-represented backgrounds, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.
We’re interested in candidates with
- A clear understanding of charity governance and the role of a Chair
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Strategic thinking and sound judgement
- A collaborative, values-driven approach
- The time, energy and commitment to make a lasting difference
Additional experience in fundraising, partnerships, organisational development or public sector engagement would be welcome, though not essential.
Time Commitment
- As a Trustee in 2025/ 26 (approx. 1–2 days per month)
- Transition to Chair in 2027, subject to mutual agreement and Board approval
- Quarterly evening Board meetings (in person in London)
- Annual summer Away Day with staff and trustees
- Optional involvement in sub-committees or events depending on interest and availability
- Representing the charity at local events
Why Now
By inviting a prospective Chair to join our Board as a Trustee in 2025/26, we can ensure a smooth, informed transition, with the support and handover of our current Chair, and plenty of time for deep onboarding and relationship-building.
The new Chair will help consolidate our growth, and lead our Board through the next chapter, ensuring our mission continues to serve those who need us most in the years ahead.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest and suitability to the Upper Room.
If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, feel free to reach out via email to arrange a call.
Because we are planning for the long term we are not placing a deadline on this process. However, we aim to appoint in the first quarter of 2026.
Interviews will be held in two stages, including an in-person meeting with key Board and staff members.
Registered Charity
11 - 20
Making sure nobody, socially or financially excluded in West London goes without help, supporting those in need, enabling those with potential
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
