At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire our Board of Trustees to support young people and communities.
- Company: Join 20 Stories High, a vibrant organisation dedicated to inclusivity and creativity.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact while gaining leadership experience in a supportive environment.
- Other info: Voluntary role with flexible commitment; we welcome applications in various formats.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team and help shape the future of our community.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategy, governance, or fundraising is a plus; passion for youth engagement is essential.
We're recruiting! Could you be our next Chair (or Co-Chair?) of our Board of Trustees? Catrina Hewitson will step down at the end of 2026 and we want to recruit a new Chair(s) to bring leadership, ideas and energy to 20 Stories High. We’re looking for someone who shares our values, mission, ambition and is committed to working with young people and communities.
We strongly believe in having a diverse team, and we specifically welcome candidates from the following groups, which we believe are underrepresented in our workforce and in the wider cultural sector:
- People of African or Caribbean, South Asian, East or Southeast Asian, or mixed heritage, or other people of the Global Majority
- Deaf and/or disabled candidates
- Neurodivergent candidates
- Candidates from working class backgrounds
- LGBTQIA+ candidates
A general background in strategy, governance, finance, HR and fundraising would be useful. Previous experience as a Trustee or Chair would be welcomed. This is a voluntary role, involving a commitment of approximately 12 days per year, to be negotiated with the successful candidate.
We are committed to inclusive working practices and ensuring equal access. This pack is available in a range of formats including audio, large print, and screen reader compatible versions. If you have a more specific formatting requirement then please let us know and we will do our best to provide this for you.
If you would like to arrange a confidential one-to-one discussion about the role then please contact amy@20storieshigh.org.uk and we will arrange a call with the current Chair to answer any questions that you might have.
To submit an expression of interest in the role please complete a copy of the Proposal Form and Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form and return them to: recruitment@20storieshigh.org.uk. Alternatively, we also welcome submissions in video/audio format and BSL. Please send a film/audio file answering the questions within the Proposal Form (no longer than 15 minutes). If you have any additional access requirements to complete this submission, then please let us know and we will support this.
Deadline: 9am, Monday 6th July 2026. Interviews: Monday 13th July 2026. Candidates will be notified of an interview by Tuesday 7th July.
Chair employer: 20 Stories High
20 Stories High is an exceptional employer that champions diversity and inclusion, making it a vibrant place for individuals passionate about empowering young people and communities. With a commitment to fostering a supportive work culture, the organisation offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds. As a voluntary role, the position of Chair allows you to contribute meaningfully while engaging with a dynamic team dedicated to making a positive impact in the cultural sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your circle or even those you admire in the sector. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for the role and the mission shine through. It’s all about connecting with their values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their goals, challenges, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and what we're all about at 20 Stories High. Familiarise yourself with our mission and values so you can show us how you align with them in your application.
Be Yourself:We want to hear your unique voice! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your written application. Share your experiences and ideas that reflect who you are and how you can contribute to our team.
Follow the Guidelines:Make sure you stick to the application guidelines we’ve provided. Whether it’s the format or the content we’re looking for, following these instructions shows us that you can pay attention to detail and respect our process.
Submit Through Our Website:When you're ready to apply, head over to our website to submit your application. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials, and it ensures everything is in one place for review. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at 20 Stories High
✨Know the Mission Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand 20 Stories High's mission and values. Reflect on how your own experiences and beliefs align with theirs, especially in relation to working with young people and communities. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit for the Chair role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your leadership experience, particularly in governance or as a Trustee. Think about challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead and inspire others, which is crucial for the Chair position.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
Given the emphasis on diversity, be ready to discuss how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to diversity, whether through previous roles or community involvement.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Consider asking about their future goals, challenges they face, or how they measure success in their initiatives.
