At a Glance
- 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 while contributing to a meaningful mission.
- Other info: Voluntary role with a commitment of around 30 days a year.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of accounting and support diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Significant board leadership experience and 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 (reference: AAT Board Chair 2026). Please ensure to include your CV and cover letter. The closing date for applications is noon on Wednesday 3 June 2026. As a Disability Confident employer, we will guarantee an interview for people with disabilities who meet all the essential criteria.
Trustee Board Chair employer: Association of Accounting Technicians
AAT is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to lead and shape the future of accounting education and professional standards. With a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, AAT fosters a collaborative work culture that values the contributions of all members, providing a platform for meaningful engagement and strategic impact. As a Trustee Board Chair, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the organisation towards its 2030 vision while enjoying the flexibility of a voluntary role that allows for personal growth and networking within the professional community.
Contact Detail:
Association of Accounting Technicians 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 industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching AAT and its mission. Understand their values and how you can contribute as a Trustee Board Chair. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for the role and how you plan to support AAT's long-term sustainability. Confidence is key, so rehearse with a friend or in front of a mirror.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the AAT team and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Trustee Board Chair
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you dive into your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s crucial to understand what AAT is looking for in a Board Chair so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with AAT's mission. Show us why you're the perfect fit for this role!
Showcase Your Governance Experience:Since this role requires strong governance expertise, be sure to emphasise any previous experience you have in chairing boards or committees. We want to see how you’ve led and made impactful decisions in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Association of Accounting Technicians
✨Know Your Governance
Familiarise yourself with the principles of charity governance and the specific responsibilities of a Trustee. Understanding AAT's Articles of Association and scheme of delegation will help you demonstrate your commitment to effective decision-making during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience chairing boards or committees. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led strategic initiatives, built consensus, or navigated complex stakeholder environments. This will showcase your capability to provide independent leadership.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity
AAT values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Be ready to share how you've fostered an inclusive culture in past roles. Discuss strategies you've implemented to ensure all voices are heard in board meetings, as this aligns with AAT's mission and values.
✨Engage with AAT's Vision
Demonstrate your understanding of AAT's 2030 strategy and vision. Research the organisation's current challenges and opportunities, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to its long-term sustainability and impact for members and the wider profession.
