Chair

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Scope in their search for their next Chair of Trustees!

About Scope

Scope is the national disability charity. We have been at the forefront of disability equality for 7 decades. We work with disabled people to break down barriers in society and challenge the injustices which persist to this day.  

Our strategic ambition is to achieve An Equal Future with disabled people by 2033.

We have 3 goals.

First, to close the employment gap. So that all those disabled people who want to work have the opportunity to.

Second, to end the Disability Price Tag. So that there is no longer a financial penalty associated with disability.

Third, to grow the movement for disability equality. With partners, communities, individuals, funders and supporters to help us.

About the Chair of Trustees opportunity

Primary Objectives:

• Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees. So the Board steers the charity for its future. Guide the Board in setting the charity’s direction and strategy. So strategy achievement is in line with Charity Commission guidelines.  
• Work closely with the Chief Executive (CEO). Make sure the Board and the executive team work together to deliver disability equality with the 16 million disabled people in the UK.
• Uphold Scope’s mission and values. Develop and carry out Scope’s aims in line with our mission, vision, values, and legal responsibilities. Promote a “One Scope” culture of teamwork, where the Board and executive team work in a collaborative way that reflects Scope’s values. 
• Support and oversee the CEO’s performance. On behalf of the Board, support the CEO to lead effectively. This includes setting clear objectives and running annual performance reviews. 
• Empower every Trustee. Help get the best from every Trustee by encouraging everyone to bring their unique talents and skills. Encourage Trustees to support relevant executive team members.

Person Specification

Experience and Qualifications (Essential):

• Leadership experience. Experience of leading at a senior or Board level in a high-profile organisation. 
• Commercial awareness. Experience of taking a commercial perspective. Willingness for a considered risk appetite.
• Understanding of governance. A clear understanding of being a Trustee. This includes the duties and responsibilities that come with the role.
• Ability to lead meetings. Skilled in chairing meetings and encouraging participation. Clear communication and working well with people skills. Able to represent Scope externally with high profile individuals.
• Strategic vision and engagement. Able to guide others to focus on big picture strategy and lead decisions on it. 
• Building consensus. Skilled at finding consensus with others. 
• Network and influence. A network of contacts that can support Scope’s work. 
• Supporting executive performance. Ability to work with and support the Chief Executive. 

Desirable (Bonus) Experience:

• Understanding of the disability and charity sectors. Knowledge of issues affecting disabled people and the voluntary sector. 
• Personal or lived experience of disability is considered a strong advantage.