Vice Chair

Vice Chair

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and support the charity's governance and strategic direction.
  • Company: Join a dynamic charity focused on empowering disabled children through music-making.
  • Benefits: Gain leadership experience and make a real impact in the community.
  • Why this job: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to enhancing the lives of young people.
  • Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and strong communication skills are essential.
  • Other info: Opportunity to step into the Chair role in the future.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.

We are seeking an inspiring and committed Vice Chair to share the leadership at an exciting moment in our journey. The Vice Chair will work closely with the CEO to ensure the charity thrives—governing with integrity, leading with vision, and staying true to our mission: to build and strengthen the life skills, well-being and confidence of disabled children and young people through music-making.

This is a pivotal leadership role on our Board of Trustees. You will help ensure that our governance remains strong and our strategic direction is clear and ambitious. Together, we will nurture an engaged, forward-thinking Board that supports and challenges the organisation to achieve the greatest possible impact.

Role Description

As Vice Chair, you will be a full member of the Board of Trustees with all the responsibilities that entails. While this is not a Chair-designate role, the Vice Chair may stand for Chair in the future should the opportunity arise. The position also includes stepping in as interim Chair when required.

Key Responsibilities
  • Work closely with the Chair and CEO to shape and strengthen the charity’s governance, strategy, and overall impact.
  • Provide leadership in embedding good governance across the charity and supporting an effective and dynamic Board.
  • Deputise for the Chair when needed, including chairing Board meetings or representing the charity externally.
  • Lead one or more Board sub-committees (e.g., Strategy, Business Development).
  • Oversee the charity’s approach to risk management and ensure key risks are regularly reviewed and addressed by the Board.
  • Coordinate the annual review process for the Board and Chair—supporting continuous improvement and identifying opportunities for learning and development.
  • When required, lead the recruitment process for a new Chair (unless standing as a candidate, in which case this will be delegated to an independent trustee or external advisor).
Person Specification

We are looking for someone who shares our values and brings energy, commitment, and insight to the role. You don’t need to tick every box, but successful candidates will demonstrate most of the following:

Essential Qualities and Experience
  • Senior leadership experience in the charity or private sector.
  • A strategic thinker with the ability to see the bigger picture and help shape long-term direction.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to listen well and lead constructively.
  • Experience of chairing or facilitating effective meetings.
  • Sound understanding of charity governance, legal responsibilities, and the role of trustees.
  • Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills, underpinned by clear analysis.
  • Financial literacy and a confident grasp of budgets and financial oversight.
  • Willingness and capacity to invest time and energy into the role and the charity’s success.
Desirable Experience
  • Lived experience of disability—either personal or as a parent, teacher, or carer.
  • Professional or voluntary experience working with disabled children and young people.
  • Previous experience as a charity trustee or non-executive board member.

Please see our Information Pack (attached) where more details are provided, then write to us with your CV and a cover letter explaining why you think this role is for you. (Please note - it is essential to provide a cover letter).

Vice Chair employer: MUSIC OF LIFE

As a leading charity dedicated to empowering disabled children and young people through music-making, we offer an inspiring work environment where your leadership can truly make a difference. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and growth, providing ample opportunities for professional development while ensuring that our governance remains robust and impactful. Located in a vibrant community, you will be part of a passionate team committed to creating meaningful change, making this an exceptional opportunity for those looking to contribute to a noble cause.
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Contact Detail:

MUSIC OF LIFE Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Vice Chair

✨Tip Number 1

Network with current and former trustees of similar charities. They can provide insights into the role and share their experiences, which can help you understand what is expected and how to position yourself effectively.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the charity's mission and recent initiatives. Being able to discuss specific projects or challenges the charity faces will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment during any informal discussions or interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the charity's values. Think about examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to lead effectively and foster collaboration within a board setting.

✨Tip Number 4

Consider volunteering for committees or initiatives related to the charity before applying. This hands-on experience can provide valuable insights and connections, making you a more attractive candidate for the Vice Chair position.

We think you need these skills to ace Vice Chair

Senior Leadership Experience
Strategic Thinking
Excellent Communication Skills
Meeting Facilitation
Charity Governance Knowledge
Critical Thinking
Decision-Making Skills
Financial Literacy
Risk Management
Board Development
Engagement and Motivation
Commitment to Charity Values
Experience with Disabled Children and Young People
Ability to Lead Sub-Committees

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Vice Chair position. Highlight how your experience aligns with their mission and values.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly explain why you are passionate about this role and how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate. Be specific about your leadership experience and understanding of charity governance.

Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects relevant experience, particularly in senior leadership roles within the charity or private sector. Emphasise your strategic thinking, communication skills, and any experience with disabled children and young people.

Proofread and Review: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your cover letter and CV for any errors. Consider asking a trusted friend or colleague to review them as well, ensuring clarity and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at MUSIC OF LIFE

✨Understand the Charity's Mission

Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the charity's mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, especially in supporting disabled children and young people through music-making.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience

Highlight your senior leadership experience, particularly in the charity or private sector. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, shaped strategic direction, and ensured good governance in previous roles.

✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking

Prepare to discuss your approach to strategic thinking and how you can help shape the long-term direction of the charity. Think of examples where you've successfully identified opportunities for growth or improvement and how you implemented those strategies.

✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask during the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Consider asking about the current challenges the Board faces or how they envision the future impact of the charity.

Vice Chair
MUSIC OF LIFE
M
  • Vice Chair

    Full-Time
    36000 - 60000 ÂŁ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-06-14

  • M

    MUSIC OF LIFE

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