Chair of the Board of Trustees

The Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust (the Trust) is looking to appoint a new Chair to join its high-performing Board of Trustees.

The new Chair will be an individual of standing, with a background that complements the activity of the Trust. The Chair must have a deeply held appreciation of the importance of The Historic Dockyard Chatham, its historical significance and the critical role it plays in inspiring audiences young and old, local, national and international.

The Trust is looking for a strategic leader to chair our vibrant Board and to act as a powerful advocate for our work.

As Chair, you will provide an inclusive approach to the governance of the charity and help us to advance our charitable purpose, truly delivering our twin charitable objectives of Preservation and Learning. You will optimise the relationship between the Board and staff and, as a Board, ensure we are focused on fulfilling our strategic role.

It is essential that the Chair has experience of excellent governance, strategic leadership, sound business credentials and ideally either a Naval background or keen interest in at least one area of the cultural, heritage or education sectors. A natural ambassador, you will promote and represent our interests externally, acting as a spokesperson where appropriate.

Our current Chair, Admiral Sir Trevor Soar, following a highly successful tenure as Chairman since 2016, will be stepping down as a Trustee in November 2026 after completing the maximum of three terms at the Trust.

The current trustee group is highly skilled, dedicated and committed to the work of the Trust. Having established a new ten-year strategy, you will be tasked to support the CEO in ensuring its delivery.