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- Tasks: Lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction for AAT.
- Company: Join AAT, the leading professional body for accounting technicians with over 137,000 members.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in governance and leadership while contributing to a meaningful mission.
- Other info: Voluntary role with a commitment of around 30 days a year; expenses covered.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of accounting education and support diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Significant board leadership experience and a strong understanding of charity governance required.
AAT is seeking an outstanding Board Chair who will be a Trustee and a non-executive director. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to AAT’s long-term sustainability, support effective decision-making, and help us deliver even greater value for our members, students and the wider profession.
About AAT
We are AAT - the Association of Accounting Technicians. Formed in 1980, we are the world's leading professional body for accounting technicians – bringing together more than 137,000 members and students. AAT is a professional body, an awarding organisation conferring qualifications, and is also a registered charity in England and Wales. We are a UK company limited by guarantee, with two subsidiaries: AAT Botswana and Accounting Technicians (Services) Limited.
Candidate profile
The Chair will provide independent leadership to the Board of Trustees, setting high standards of governance, decision-making and accountability. Candidates should have significant experience chairing boards and committees, a strong understanding of charity governance, and the ability to build constructive challenge and consensus. They will bring sound judgement, integrity and discretion, and be confident operating in complex governance and stakeholder environments, engaging effectively with members, partners and external stakeholders. They will understand the responsibilities of a Trustee and the duties of a non-executive director and will act as an ambassador for AAT’s mission and values. The Chair will work closely with Board members, the President, the CEO and Executive Leadership Team to set strategic direction, oversee performance and risk, and support effective organisational leadership. They will ensure Board priorities advance AAT’s strategy and charitable objectives, and that governance and culture enable delivery and impact for members, learners and the wider public.
Responsibilities of the Chair
- Work with the Trustee Board and the Executive Leadership Team to provide strategic leadership and oversight of delivery of AAT's 2030 strategy and vision, in accordance with our charitable objectives.
- Ensure exemplary governance of the charity, including shaping and sustaining an effective Board and embedding equality, diversity and inclusion in the Board's approach and decision-making.
- Ensure that the Board delivers its key strategic role in securing the charity's long-term viability and sustainability, in accordance with AAT's Articles of Association and scheme of delegation, and in compliance with relevant regulation and legislation.
Knowledge and experience
- Senior strategic leadership experience and a clear understanding of the Chair role.
- Strong corporate governance expertise, gained as a Chair or trustee/Board member and/or through significant Board-level exposure.
- Demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and credibility to help shape and sustain organisational culture.
- Proven ability to motivate senior teams to deliver strategic objectives and outcomes.
- Knowledge of AAT and the context in which it operates, or the enthusiasm and ability to rapidly build this understanding.
- Experience building and sustaining external relationships with key stakeholders; experience with a membership organisation and/or charity board is desirable.
Skills and qualities
- Ability to lead inclusive Board meetings with clarity and authority, drawing out all trustees' contributions.
- Ability to listen, challenge constructively, build consensus and manage conflict appropriately.
- Leads by example, setting the tone for effective governance, accountability and decision-making.
- Exercises sound, evidence-based judgement, including when handling sensitive or urgent matters.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ambassadorial approach.
Term of office: the term of office will be three years with the option to be re-appointed for a second three-year term.
Remuneration: the role of Trustee is voluntary and unpaid. However, Trustees can claim expenses for travel to meetings and other reasonable costs incurred, in line with the Expenses Policy.
Time commitment: the time commitment for the Chair is expected to be around 30 days a year.
How to apply
Applications can also be submitted by emailing governance@aat.org.uk (reference: AAT Board Chair 2026). Please ensure to include your CV and cover letter in a single document before uploading. The closing date for applications is noon on Tuesday 26 May 2026. As a Disability Confident employer, we will guarantee an interview for people with disabilities who meet all the essential criteria. If you would like to be considered under this scheme, please let us know.
Trustee Board Chair employer: AAT
Contact Detail:
AAT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trustee Board Chair
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity and governance sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for a Trustee Board Chair role. You never know who might have the perfect opportunity for us!
✨Tip Number 2
Research is key! Dive deep into AAT’s mission, values, and current projects. Understanding their strategic direction will not only help us tailor our approach but also show that we’re genuinely interested in contributing to their long-term sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to governance and leadership. Think about how we can demonstrate our experience in chairing boards and managing stakeholder relationships. Confidence is crucial, so let’s make sure we’re ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Make sure to include a tailored CV and cover letter that highlights our relevant experience and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Let’s make it count!
We think you need these skills to ace Trustee Board Chair
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Recruitment Pack: Before you dive into your application, make sure to read the full recruitment pack. It’s packed with info about AAT and what we’re looking for in our next Board Chair. Understanding our mission and values will help you tailor your application.
Showcase Your Experience: When writing your CV and cover letter, highlight your experience in chairing boards and committees. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Chair role, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can lead with integrity and sound judgement, so share your unique perspective and how it aligns with AAT’s values.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. Remember to include your CV and cover letter in a single document before uploading. Good luck!
How to prepare for a job interview at AAT
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on charity governance principles and the specific responsibilities of a Trustee. Familiarise yourself with AAT's mission and values, as well as their 2030 strategy. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also committed to AAT's long-term goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience chairing boards or committees. Think of specific examples where you've led discussions, built consensus, or navigated complex stakeholder environments. This will help demonstrate your capability to provide independent leadership to the Board.
✨Engage with Inclusivity
AAT values equality, diversity, and inclusion, so be ready to talk about how you've promoted these principles in your past roles. Share examples of how you've fostered an inclusive environment and how you plan to continue this as Chair.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
As the Chair, you'll need to lead meetings and engage with various stakeholders. Practise articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your communication style and ensure you can handle challenging questions with ease.