Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and communication for a historic charity, ensuring compliance and strategic impact.
- Company: Join The Rochester Bridge Trust, a charity with a legacy of free crossings since 1399.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £65,000 salary, a four-day work week, and potential remote work flexibility.
- Why this job: Be part of a forward-thinking team making a real difference in engineering education and the environment.
- Qualifications: Significant governance experience and strong communication skills are essential; charity sector knowledge is a plus.
- Other info: This role offers a unique chance to blend tradition with modern impact in a senior leadership position.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 78000 £ per year.
Job Description
Harris Hill is delighted to be partnering with The Rochester Bridge Trust in their search for a Head of Governance and Communication.
The Rochester Bridge Trust is a historic and independent charity that has provided and maintained free-to-use crossings over the River Medway since 1399. Today, it continues this legacy with a net-zero approach and a strong charitable programme supporting engineering education, heritage, and the environment.
As Head of Governance & Communication, you will join the Senior Management Team and work closely with the Chief Executive (Bridge Clerk) to oversee a broad portfolio—including governance and trustee services, strategic communications, climate action, risk management, and organisational policy. You will be leading a small but dedicated team of professionals, ensuring high standards of performance, compliance, and delivery across your areas of responsibility.
Key requirements:
- Significant experience in a governance-focused role, including supporting Boards or Trustees at a senior level.
- Strong understanding of the legal and regulatory framework of the UK charity sector, including Charity Commission guidance.
- Excellent communication skills, with a track record of drafting policies, governance papers, agendas and minutes to a high standard.
- People management experience, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
- Knowledge of risk, environmental reporting, or external comms is highly desirable, but not essential.
This is a rare opportunity to take a senior leadership role in an organisation that blends tradition with forward-thinking impact.
- Salary £65,000 per annum, plus great benefits.
- Working days Monday- Thursday, (office closed on Fridays)
- Permanent
- Location: Rochester, Kent. On site 4 days a week, with some flexibility to WFH in the future.
For more information, please submit your CV to hannah.whittington@harrishill.co.uk
CVs are being reviewed on a rolling basis.
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Head of Governance and Communication employer: HARRIS HILL EXECUTIVE SEARCH
Contact Detail:
HARRIS HILL EXECUTIVE SEARCH Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Governance and Communication
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific governance frameworks and regulations that apply to charities in the UK. Understanding the legal landscape will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the charity sector, especially those who have experience in governance roles. Engaging with others can provide insights into the challenges and expectations of the position, which can be invaluable during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing teams and how you've motivated them to achieve high standards. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership style and effectiveness in a governance context.
✨Tip Number 4
Research The Rochester Bridge Trust's current projects and initiatives, particularly their net-zero approach and educational programmes. Showing genuine interest in their mission and values will set you apart as a candidate who aligns with their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Governance and Communication
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Governance and Communication position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in governance and communication.
Craft a Strong CV: Your CV should clearly outline your significant experience in governance-focused roles, especially any work with Boards or Trustees. Use bullet points to detail your achievements and ensure it is formatted professionally.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the charity sector and how your skills align with the role. Mention your understanding of the legal and regulatory framework of the UK charity sector and provide examples of your excellent communication skills.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at HARRIS HILL EXECUTIVE SEARCH
✨Understand the Organisation's Legacy
Familiarise yourself with the history and mission of The Rochester Bridge Trust. Knowing how the charity has evolved since 1399 will help you articulate your alignment with their values and vision during the interview.
✨Showcase Governance Expertise
Prepare to discuss your experience in governance-focused roles, particularly how you've supported Boards or Trustees. Be ready to provide specific examples of policies or governance papers you've drafted that demonstrate your understanding of the legal and regulatory framework in the UK charity sector.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic, such as climate action or risk management, to showcase your ability to convey complex information effectively.
✨Highlight People Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your approach to team leadership and development. Share examples of how you've motivated and guided teams in the past, focusing on your strategies for fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
