Chair of Trustees

We are looking for a new Chair to lead a highly motivated group of trustees to support an inspiring charity for people with autism or a learning disability.

At Talkback we seek to enable everyone with autism or a learning disability to lead the fulfilling lives that they want and to actively contribute to their local community.

Our organisation began 24 years ago to give people with a learning disability a voice that was listened to. In response to the needs of the people we support as well as new legislation and the requirements of local and national government, we have diversified, developed and grown to become a highly successful organisation that delivers a wide range of projects across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.

We support people aged 16 and above, helping them to define and achieve their life objectives through services such as education, health & wellbeing and employment support.  We provide a social network as well as a range of opportunities to engage in sport, woodwork, art and drama. 

We employ around 70 staff along with a dedicated group of volunteers. They are led by a highly experienced CEO and a motivated leadership group.  Supporting these professionals is a trustee group with a wide range of experience. Talkback has adapted and survived through challenging times. Government funding has always been limited and continues to be so.  This requires us to identify alternative sources of funding and to be imaginative in our approach to delivery.

We are looking for a Chair who is motivated to make a real difference to the lives of people who often face disadvantage and to offer leadership and help shape the strategic direction of Talkback. So, if you are someone who relishes a challenge, then leading the Board of Trustees at Talkback could be just what you are looking for.  You will work with a group of like-minded, passionate, experienced, and friendly people.

The role would be within Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes, though most Board meetings are remote and would require around 5 hours of your time each month, as well as visits to charity services and events.

Principle roles and responsibilities

As Chair your role is to work closely with the CEO and Leadership team and to ensure that the skills and experience of Board members are used to the best advantage.  The Board exists to:

●     Ensure the organisation complies with charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

●     Ensure that the organisation pursues its stated charitable objectives as defined in the Constitution, by establishing a clear vision, set of values and strategy.

●     Ensure that operational plans and budgets support the vision and strategy

●     Ensure that the views of stakeholders including members are regularly sought and considered

●     Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.

●     Ensure that major risks to the Charity are identified and managed.

●     Ensure that the organisation has appropriate governance structures.

●     Support the Chief Executive Officer in the delivery of the charity’s objectives, holding them to account for the management and administration of the charity

As Chair you will be required to:

•     Oversee the Board of Trustees ensuring that it comprises of a diverse range of skills, experience and knowledge

•     Chair the Trustee Board meetings and AGM, prepare and plan agendas and ensure agreed actions are implemented.

•     Ensure that the opinions of all trustees are heard and respected, and oversee votes where required.

•     Support the CEO and leadership team by attending charity events and by acting as an ambassador for the organisation.

•     Provide line management of the CEO

•     Attend key internal and external meetings

•     Act as an ambassador for the charity.

Personal Attributes

·         Enthusiasm and commitment together with strong interpersonal skills and experience of operating at a strategic level

·         The ability to engage with people from a wide range of backgrounds

·         The ability to influence others without dominating, ensuring that everyone contributes towards discussions and the decision-    making process

·         Willingness to attend functions and build relationships with local partners

Safeguarding Statements

‘Talkback is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults with care and support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.’

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and will require a Disclosure & Barring Service check (DBS) and references. Successful applicants will also have to complete a Fit and Proper Person’s Declaration.