Chair

Support U is a leading LGBTQ+ help and support service based in Reading, servicing the Thames Valley area.

We are looking to revitalise our Trustee Board and require a new Chair of Trustees. This is an exciting opportunity to help take the charity forward and have a real impact on those we support.

What will you be doing?

1. General statutory responsibilities as a Trustee (please request candidate pack for further details).
2. Specific responsibilities as Chair of Trustees: 

• Provide leadership and ensure focus on delivering the organization’s charitable purposes for greater public benefit.
• Chair and facilitate board meetings.
• Direct board policy-making.
• Ensure implementation of meeting decisions.
• Represent the organization at functions and meetings, acting as spokesperson when appropriate.
• Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making.
• Plan the annual cycle of board and general meetings, such as the AGM.
• Set agendas for board and general meetings.
• Develop the board of Trustees through induction, training, appraisal, and succession planning.
• Address conflicts within the board and organization, liaising with the Chief Executive if staff are employed.
• This role is mainly office-based

Time Commitment

We have recently navigated a transitional period, which included our longstanding CEO stepping down and changes to the services we provide.

It would therefore be helpful to have someone who has slightly more time available than is typical during this interim period, as we are really looking for someone to lead the Board in deciding what direction Support U decides to move in. 

We are currently having monthly Board meetings (which are usually held online) which the Chair is expected to attend.

What are we looking for?

• Leadership skills.
• Experience of committee work.
• Tact and diplomacy.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

In most circumstances, it would also be desirable for the Chair/Vice-Chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation and a wider involvement with the voluntary sector and other networks.

What difference will you make?

As the potential Chair of Support U, you will have the opportunity to significantly enhance our ability to support LGBTQ+ individuals in Reading and Thames Valley. Your leadership will provide strategic vision, strengthen our existing services, and expand our outreach efforts. By focusing on inclusivity and accessibility, building strong partnerships, and advocating for greater awareness and inclusion of LGBTQ+ issues, you will ensure that Support U remains dedicated to its mission and is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of our community. Your experience and dedication will be invaluable in driving our organisation forward and making a lasting impact.