Chair of the Board of Trustees

We would like to hear from individuals with the skills, experience and time to ensure that the board provides the organisation with effective governance whilst at the same time acting as one of its ambassadors. Networks within Essex, whilst not essential, would be an advantage.

The new chair will be essential to supporting the board and the management team as we create a new organisational structure under new leadership.In this role you will act as an ambassador for Parents 1st UK and as a member of the Board of Trustees you will contribute to all aspects of the organisation’s governance.

Information on the Chair role can be found on pages 11-12 of the recruitment pack. 

About the role
The Chair will:
• Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that Parents 1st UK achieves its mission.
• Work in partnership with the Chief Executive and team to achieve our mission.
• Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.
• Optimise the relationship between the board and Parent 1st UK’s staff and volunteers.
• Plan and chair the board meetings and annual strategic away day, with others as appropriate.
• Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for Parents 1st UK.

About the person
We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.
What we are looking for:
• Experience of being a Trustee is essential, however you do not need to have been a Chair before.
• A keen sense of strategic purpose.
• An inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equal footing.
• The ability to listen and engage effectively. You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative board environment.
• Advocate - be able and willing to champion Parent 1st UK’s work through personal networks, social media, and other channels.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Be responsive as required - as a small charity, things sometimes ‘come up’ that require the Chair to advise, support or give consent to. It is very helpful to have a Chair who is available and responsive.

Personal skills and qualities
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to our values.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.