The vacancy
We are seeking to appoint one lay member to sit on our GOC Council.
About the GOC
We are the regulator for the optical professions in the UK. Our purpose is to protect the public by promoting high standards of education, performance and conduct. For more information about us please visit our website:optical. org.
About the Council
The role of Council is to lead on the GOC’s mission to protect the public by upholding high standards in eye care services. The Council is composed of six lay members (including the Chair) and six registrant members (i.e. registered optometrists and dispensing opticians). At least one member of the Council must work wholly or mainly in each of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. One Council member acts as a Senior Council Member whose role is to carry out the Chair’s appraisal as well as provide a sounding board for the Chair and serve as an intermediary for Council members, Executive and stakeholders as necessary.
The successful candidate will contribute to Council by exercising oversight, ensuring effective corporate governance, and making high-level policy decisions. They will be able to operate strategically and impartially; listen, communicate, and influence effectively; exercise judgment; and inspire confidence and support amongst our stakeholders.
Remuneration and time commitment
Council members are remunerated in accordance with our member fees policy (£13,962 per annum plus reasonable travel and subsistence expenses). The member fee includes time for reading and preparation.
The appointed member will be expected to commit approximately 2-3 days per month. Meetings will usually take place via MS Teams but may on occasion be held at the GOC Offices at Level 29, One Canada Square, London, E14 5AA. There are occasional online catch-up meetings - these are currently scheduled on a Tuesday evening every 6-8 weeks, from 5.30pm – 6.30pm.
How to apply:
Please email the the following to appointment@optical. org
· your CV outlining your employment history, any relevant voluntary work, public service or other experience; together with any relevant professional, academic or vocational qualifications;
· the application form, stating how your experience matches the criteria for the vacancy you are applying for; and
· complete the EDI monitoring form linked in the candidate pack (this is an online form and does not need to be included in the email with your CV and application form).
APPLICATION DEADLINE: midnight on Sunday 10 August 2025.
Online interviews will be held on between Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 October 2025.
If you have any questions, please email them to appointment@optical. org and we will aim to respond to you within 48 hours.
We welcome applications from individuals who are disabled and from diverse ethnic backgrounds as these are currently under-represented on our council and committees.
We strive to be as diverse as the public we protect and welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity and geographical locations outside of London.
Registered Charity 
51 - 100
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Inspire the next generation through outdoor adventure
Blackwell Adventure is one of the UK’s leading outdoor education charities. Located across two sites in rural Worcestershire and welcoming over 30,000 visitors annually, we deliver high-quality outdoor learning experiences to schools, Scouts, Guides, youth organisations, and corporate clients.
As our current CEO prepares to retire, we are seeking an exceptional leader to take the helm and shape the next chapter of our charity’s story. This is an outstanding opportunity for a dynamic and visionary professional with a deep commitment to outdoor learning and youth development.
About the Role
As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the charity, reporting to the Board of Trustees. You will lead a committed team of staff and volunteers to ensure the continued delivery of safe, inclusive, and transformative experiences for young people, while ensuring Blackwell Adventure remains financially sustainable and future-focused.
Key areas of responsibility include:
- Strategic planning and organisational governance
- Operational and programme delivery across Blackwell Court and Pikes Pool
- Fundraising and income diversification, including grant acquisition and commercial development
- Financial planning, risk management, and regulatory compliance
- External representation and partnership development
- Team leadership and values-driven cultural stewardship
- This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who is equally comfortable setting vision, making strategic decisions, managing complex operations, and building strong, positive relationships with partners and funders.
About You
- We are looking for an experienced, inspirational leader with:
- A proven track record of strategic and operational leadership at senior level
- A strong background in outdoor education or a closely related field
- Demonstrable success in financial management and income generation
- Excellent people management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
- A deep understanding of the educational, developmental, and safeguarding needs of young people
- A collaborative, values-led approach, and commitment to continuous improvement
Higher-level outdoor qualifications and familiarity with the voluntary or charitable sector will be advantageous.
Why Join Blackwell Adventure?
· A respected, successful, and values-driven charity
· A supportive and engaged Board of Trustees
· A passionate and talented staff and volunteer team
· Two beautiful 50-acre sites with extensive facilities
· A competitive salary and benefits package
· Relocation support available
· Optional on-site accommodation available for rent (Detached 2-bedroom Gatehouse Lodge).
Deadline for applications: 5:00 p.m., Monday 18th August 2025
Key Dates
- Application deadline: Monday 18th August 2025, 5:00 p.m.
- Shortlist notification: Friday 22nd August 2025
- Interviews + Facility tours (2.5 hrs, in-person at Blackwell Court): Up to the 4th of September 2025
- Proposed start date: Monday 5th January 2026
Blackwell Adventure is an equal opportunity employer.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively encourage candidates with lived experience of the power of outdoor learning.
All offers are subject to satisfactory references, enhanced DBS clearance, and background checks.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.