342 Volunteer roles in Northern Ireland

Help shape the future of the British Dyslexia Association.

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) is seeking an inspiring and committed Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and help guide the organisation through its next stage of development.

As Chair, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the charity remains focused on its mission, delivers meaningful impact, and continues to be a trusted voice for people with dyslexia. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior leadership team, you will provide strategic leadership, robust governance, support and constructive challenge to help the organisation thrive.

This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced leader who is passionate about making a difference and wants to use their skills to help shape an organisation that changes lives.

The role

As Chair of Trustees, you will:

• Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring it operates effectively, inclusively and in line with its legal and governance responsibilities.
• Lead the Board in setting and reviewing the organisation's strategic direction and monitoring progress against its objectives.
• Chair Board meetings, encouraging constructive discussion, effective decision-making and strong trustee engagement.
• Build a positive and productive relationship with the CEO, providing support, guidance and appropriate challenge.
• Champion high standards of governance, accountability and organisational performance.
• Support the recruitment, development and succession planning of trustees.
• Act as an ambassador for the BDA, helping to strengthen relationships with stakeholders, partners, funders and supporters.
• Foster a Board culture that reflects our values and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Who we're looking for

We are looking for someone who brings strong leadership, sound judgement and a genuine commitment to our mission.

You may already have experience as a Chair, Vice-Chair, Trustee, Non-Executive Director or senior leader. Most importantly, you will be able to provide strategic oversight, build effective relationships and create an environment where people can contribute their best.

We would particularly welcome candidates who can demonstrate:

• Experience of board-level leadership, governance or organisational oversight.
• The ability to inspire confidence, facilitate discussion and build consensus.
• Strong strategic thinking and an ability to balance long-term vision with practical decision-making.
• Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The confidence to support and challenge appropriately.
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for the BDA's mission and the difference we make to the lives of people with dyslexia.

Why join us?

This is more than a governance role. It is an opportunity to help shape the future of a national charity that supports and advocates for people with dyslexia across the UK.

As Chair, you will:

• Make a lasting difference to the people and communities we serve.
• Help shape the strategic direction and long-term sustainability of the organisation.
• Work alongside a committed Board and leadership team.
• Use and further develop your leadership and governance experience.
• Build valuable connections across the charity, education and wider not-for-profit sectors.

Terms of Office

• Trustees are appointed for a three-year term and may serve a maximum of two terms.
• This is a voluntary position.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time Commitment

The role requires approximately 12 days per year, including:

• Quarterly Board meetings (approximately three hours each)
• Quarterly committee meetings (approximately two hours each)
• One or two Board away days
• Regular meetings with the CEO
• Attendance at key events, training and occasional project work

We recognise the importance of balancing trustee commitments alongside work and personal responsibilities, and we strive to offer flexibility wherever possible.

Join us in helping to create a more inclusive society and a brighter future for people with dyslexia.

First-stage interviews will on held online during the week commencing 30 November 2026, with second-stage interviews taking place in person in London (venue to be confirmed) on 17 and 18 December 2026.