Chair of the Board of Trustees - ExtraCare Charitable Trust

Who They Are

The ExtraCare Charitable Trust is a UK charity that has supported older people for over 35 years. Guided by the vision of better lives for older people, the Trust delivers integrated retirement communities offering an alternative approach to later living that challenges societal perceptions of ageing.

Its holistic model, supported by research with Aston and Lancaster Universities, has demonstrated significant benefits for residents and wider society. As pioneers of supported independent living, ExtraCare prides itself on delivering best-in-class retirement living opportunities and advocating for older people.

Since 1988, the organisation has developed retirement villages and smaller housing schemes, prioritising the wellbeing, happiness, and fulfilment of residents. Today, ExtraCare is the UK’s leading not-for-profit developer of housing for over-55s, operating 14 retirement villages and four smaller schemes, supporting more than 4,329 residents in 3,778 homes.

The Role

ExtraCare is seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees to provide strategic leadership, ensure effective governance, and work closely with the Chief Executive and Trustees in delivering the charity’s vision, mission, and values. Applications are welcomed from individuals across a wide range of backgrounds to strengthen the diversity of the Board.

Person Specification

• Previous non-executive Board experience in a customer-focused organisation (charity or housing sector experience not essential).

• Clear understanding of the respective roles of the Chair, Board, and Chief Executive.

• Proven leadership track record within an organisation of comparable scale and complexity.

• Strong governance knowledge and accountability within regulated sectors.

• Business acumen, including strategic planning, financial oversight, risk and performance management, and service development.

• Understanding of operating within a regulated environment.

• Commitment to the principles of a social business and the charity’s operating context.

• Experience representing an organisation externally, including public speaking.