Chair of Trustees - Alopecia UK

Could you be our new Chair of Trustees? Or could someone in your network be?

Alopecia UK is a small but perfectly formed charity. We have a passionate and dedicated board of trustees, and we are looking for someone to join as our Chair.

Who we are

Alopecia UK is a small national charity working to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia through aims of Support, Awareness and Research. Despite being a small charity we are still the largest alopecia charity in the UK with big ambitions to develop and grow further.

Alopecia UK was founded in 2004 and registered with the Charity Commission of England & Wales in September 2005. Registration with the Scottish Charity Regulator took place in February 2014.

The role

​Our Chair of Trustees is responsible for chairing our four trustee meetings each year (two face-to-face, two virtual) and ensuring that Alopecia UK pursues its stated objectives and complies with its governing document.

Founded in 2004, we work to help adults, young people and children affected by alopecia. This includes those with alopecia, as well as their loved ones. We are a small charity, with an annual income under £500,000, working nationally across the UK, led by CEO Sue Schilling.

We have a fantastic and dedicated staff team and board of Trustees, as well as a loyal network of volunteers and supporters. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and innovative applicant to be part of a small yet dynamic charity and make a lasting difference to the lives of those affected by alopecia. We are currently undergoing a strategic review and are looking for a Chair who can lead our board of Trustees in our next phase of growth.

To enjoy this role you don’t need to be affected by alopecia but you do need to care and be committed to our mission to improve the lives of those who are.

We are looking for someone with the following skills and attributes:

• A commitment to the charity’s mission to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. We estimate the time commitment is approximately 1-2 days a month.
• Strategic vision and experience with trustee or corporate boards, or as a Chair
• Good, independent judgement
• An ability to think creatively and generate ideas
• The confidence to challenge, question and speak their mind
• An ability to effectively chair meetings, ensuring all voices and opinions are equally considered
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Trustees are encouraged to participate in charity campaigns and attend flagship events e.g., our Big Weekend and Alton Towers trip. Trustees are not paid, but out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed. Trustees serve at least three years.

AUK CEO Sue Schilling says, “The role of Chair is critical to the wellbeing and performance of the charity. Our Chair of Trustees has several roles working as a leader, supporter, devil’s advocate, and mentor. I am looking forward to working in partnership with our new Chair, on a shared vision for the direction of the charity that is built on confidence, trust and synergy.”

If you feel like you could be a good fit for this role, applications are currently open. You can find our Chair Recruitment Pack, which includes the full role description and person specification.

The position will remain open until filled.