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United World Colleges (UWC) is a global education movement with a mission to make education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.

Founded in 1962, UWC today comprises 18 schools and colleges across four continents, supported by national committees in more than 150 countries and territories and a global community of over 91,000 alumni. At the heart of UWC is a belief in the power of young people and in the possibility of change. Bringing together students from different countries, cultures, backgrounds and lived experiences to learn with and from one another. More than 80% of students selected through UWC national committees receive full or partial financial assistance.

This is an important moment for UWC. With the UWC 2030 Strategy now guiding the movement's next chapter, UWC is seeking a new Chair of its International Board to help build on more than six decades of impact and support its future development as a global voice for values-based education.

International Board Chair
Global, voluntary role with international travel
Reasonable expenses covered

The Chair will provide strategic and governance leadership to the UWC International Board while acting as a visible ambassador and unifying presence across the wider UWC movement.

Working closely with the Executive Director, International Board and International Council, you will help ensure effective governance and strategic oversight, providing appropriate support, challenge and accountability while maintaining a clear distinction between governance and executive leadership.

This is a highly relational role. UWC is a diverse and genuinely international, federated movement, and the Chair will build strong relationships across its schools and colleges, national committees, alumni and wider community. You will help bring people together around UWC's shared mission and strategic direction, navigating different perspectives and contexts with sensitivity and judgement.

Externally, you will be a compelling ambassador for UWC, strengthening its profile and relationships with partners, governments, donors and other international stakeholders. You will also champion philanthropy and fundraising, helping UWC develop significant relationships and strengthen its long-term financial sustainability.

We are seeking an exceptional international leader who is deeply aligned with UWC's mission and values and who brings significant senior executive and/or non-executive leadership experience.

You will bring a sophisticated understanding of governance, strong strategic capability and substantial experience of working across different countries, cultures and perspectives. Experience of operating within a complex, federated, networked or decentralised organisation or movement would be particularly valuable, alongside the credibility to engage effectively with senior external stakeholders.

Just as important will be how you lead. UWC is looking for a humble, low-ego and inclusive leader, an exceptional listener and relationship-builder who can establish trust across cultures and generations. You will be comfortable convening diverse perspectives, building consensus without avoiding difficult decisions, and supporting the Executive Director.

You will combine emotional intelligence and cultural fluency with the presence and authority required of an international Board Chair. Above all, you will have a genuine commitment to UWC's belief that education can help build a more peaceful, sustainable and inclusive future.

To learn more about this unique opportunity, please follow the link below to the full appointment brief.

Prospectus is advising UWC on the Chair appointment, and for an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please contact the Prospectus team.

Recruitment timetable
Application closing date: Monday 30th November
Interviews with Prospectus: December 2026 – January 2027
Interviews & Engagement Sessions with UWC: January – February 2027