Hawk and Owl Trust - Chair of the Board of Trustees

About the Hawk and Owl Trust
The Hawk and Owl Trust is a national UK charity (registration no. 1058565), established in 1969, committed to the conservation of owls and birds of prey in their natural habitats. The charity works to protect these species through practical research, habitat creation and management, public education, and outreach.

The Trust develops and maintains nesting and roosting sites, advises on feeding habitats, and welcomes visitors to its nature reserves in Norfolk and Somerset. It also runs education centres and outreach initiatives designed to foster greater public understanding and appreciation of raptors and their ecosystems.

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Purpose of the Role
The Chair will provide strategic and inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Operating Director, and the wider team of staff and volunteers. The role is instrumental in ensuring that the charity remains focused on its mission and vision, and that governance is effective, collaborative, and forward-thinking.

Working closely with the Chief Operating Director, the Chair will help strengthen internal relationships, support strategic delivery, and serve as a key ambassador for the Trust, representing the organisation externally with professionalism and enthusiasm.

Key Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated senior leadership experience, ideally with a governance or non-executive background

• Strong interpersonal and communication capabilities

• Sound understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities

• A clear commitment to and passion for wildlife and environmental conservation

Principal Responsibilities
The Chair will:

• Provide strategic leadership to ensure the charity maximises its impact in protecting birds of prey

• Guide the Board in fulfilling its governance duties, including oversight of risk, performance, and financial sustainability

• Champion best practice in governance, fostering a culture of integrity and transparency

• Support and appraise the Chief Operating Director, building a strong and effective working partnership

• Encourage Board development, succession planning, and a balanced skills matrix across trustees

• Lead conflict resolution, promote constructive challenge, and ensure decisions are made in the charity’s best interest

• Represent the organisation in public, media, and stakeholder engagements as appropriate

Location

• Administrative base: Sculthorpe, Fakenham, Norfolk

• Flexible and remote-friendly, with most Board meetings held virtually

• Some in-person attendance required in Sculthorpe (Norfolk), Shapwick (Somerset), or London

Remuneration

• This is a voluntary role

• All reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed

Time Commitment

• Approximately 1–2 days per month

• Attendance at 4–5 Board meetings annually (a combination of virtual and in-person)

• Optional participation in up to two subcommittees (each meeting quarterly)

• Additional time as needed to represent the Trust at events, media opportunities, or stakeholder meetings

Term of Appointment
The Chair will serve a three-year term, with the option to be reappointed for one additional term.