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- Tasks: Lead the Board to ensure effective governance and strategic oversight for a charity focused on community wellbeing.
- Company: A place-based charity dedicated to improving lives through physical activity in the North East of England.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence positive change and work with diverse stakeholders in a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Join a values-driven organisation committed to equality and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by championing physical activity and supporting community development.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in strategic leadership, governance, and financial oversight.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
This is a place‑based charity operating across the North East of England, with a core mission to improve quality of life in communities experiencing the greatest need through the power of physical activity, movement and sport. The organisation provides systems leadership and operational support to a wide network of partners, enabling them to use movement, sport and physical activity to improve:
- Physical and mental wellbeing
- Educational outcomes
- Community cohesion
- Long‑term social, economic and health inequalities
The charity works collaboratively with local, regional and national stakeholders including local authorities, health systems, education providers, funding bodies, criminal justice partners, businesses and the voluntary and community sector. The organisation has experienced significant growth in recent years, with an annual turnover of approximately ÂŁ1.8m and a staff team of around 45 people. Core funding is currently provided primarily through a national public body. The charity is now entering its next phase of development, focused on deepening impact, strengthening sustainability, and diversifying income.
The organisation seeks to appoint a strategic, influential and values‑led Chair to lead the Board and support the charity’s continued growth, impact and long‑term sustainability. The Chair will provide strategic leadership, strong governance and external advocacy, working in close partnership with the Chief Executive and fellow Board members. They will act as an ambassador and champion for the organisation, helping to open doors, build relationships and influence across the region and beyond. This role is suited to an individual with calm ambition, someone who can combine strategic challenge with collaboration, humility and trust‑building.
Key Responsibilities
- Board Leadership & Governance
- Lead the Board to ensure effective governance, accountability and strategic oversight
- Create the conditions for a high‑performing, compliant and values‑led Board
- Ensure the Board fulfils its fiduciary and legal duties
- Support the development and effectiveness of Board members
- Lead Board and Chair‑level performance reviews
- Strategic Leadership
- Shape, challenge and support the organisation’s long‑term, mission‑led strategy
- Enable strategic adaptation in response to changing external conditions
- Support horizon scanning for opportunities, risks and emerging trends
- Chief Executive Partnership
- Build and maintain a strong, trusting and constructive relationship with the Chief Executive
- Act as a sounding board, mentor and strategic partner
- Ensure a healthy and effective Board–Executive interface
- Influence, Advocacy & Systems Leadership
- Act as an influential advocate for the organisation’s mission and impact
- Represent the organisation externally at regional and, where appropriate, national level
- Use personal networks to support partnership development, income generation and profile‑raising
- Support systems leadership in complex, place‑based environments
- Financial & Risk Oversight
- Provide oversight of financial planning, controls and long‑term sustainability
- Support income diversification strategies in a shifting funding landscape
- Ensure effective identification and mitigation of strategic, reputational and system risks
Person Specification
Essential
- Senior‑level experience providing strategic leadership and governance
- Proven understanding of Board responsibilities, governance best practice and fiduciary duties
- Experience navigating ambiguity, complexity and organisational change
- Strong financial literacy and experience overseeing organisational sustainability
- Ability to lead Boards through growth, transition and evolving external environments
Desirable
- Experience within or alongside charities, public bodies or values‑led organisations
- Experience of supporting income diversification and partnership‑led funding models
Influence & Networks
- Strong, high‑level professional network, particularly regionally
- Ability to build relationships across sectors such as health, education, local government, business and the voluntary sector
- Credibility to influence senior stakeholders and decision‑makers
Leadership Style & Values
- Deep belief in the power of physical activity, movement and sport to improve lives and communities
- Ego‑less, collaborative leadership style
- High emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal skills
- Commitment to inclusive, ethical and values‑driven leadership
- Curious, resilient and willing to constructively challenge
Time Commitment
Approximate commitments include:
- 4 Board meetings per year (in person)
- 2 strategic planning sessions per year
- Monthly meetings with the Chief Executive
- Attendance at the AGM
- Stakeholder engagement and external representation as required
- Occasional sub‑committee meetings and ad hoc strategic support
- Preparation time for all meetings and activity
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The organisation is committed to equality of opportunity and to building a Board that reflects the communities and places it exists to serve. Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, and from both within and beyond the sectors in which the organisation works.
Chair of the Board of Trustees in Sunderland employer: Castle Peak Group
Contact Detail:
Castle Peak Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Board of Trustees in Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the charity sector, especially those involved in physical activity and community wellbeing. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the cause! When you get the chance to chat with stakeholders or during interviews, make sure to express your belief in the power of sport and movement to change lives. Authenticity goes a long way in making a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss strategic ideas! Think about how you can help the organisation deepen its impact and diversify income. Bring fresh perspectives to the table that align with their mission and show you’re ready to lead them into the next phase.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to their important work in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Board of Trustees in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand the role and the charity's mission. Dive into their website and get a feel for their values and goals. This will help you tailor your application to show how you can contribute to their vision.
Be Authentic: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for physical activity and community improvement. Authenticity goes a long way in making a connection.
Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your relevant experience clearly and concisely. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic leadership and governance skills. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can navigate complexity and drive impact, so make those experiences pop!
Follow the Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website as it’s the best way for us to receive your application. Double-check that you’ve included all required documents and information. A well-organised application shows your attention to detail and commitment to the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Castle Peak Group
✨Know the Mission Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you fully understand the charity's mission and how it impacts the communities it serves. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and successes, as well as the challenges they face. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide strategic leadership and governance. Think about times when you've navigated complex situations or led a team through change. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these skills to support the charity's growth and sustainability.
✨Build Rapport with the Chief Executive
Since the Chair will work closely with the Chief Executive, it's crucial to establish a good rapport during the interview. Show that you can be a supportive partner by discussing your approach to collaboration and mentorship. Highlight any previous experiences where you've successfully built strong working relationships.
✨Prepare for Questions on Financial Oversight
Given the financial responsibilities of the role, be prepared to discuss your financial literacy and experience in overseeing organisational sustainability. Think about how you've contributed to income diversification strategies in the past and be ready to share insights on managing risks in a shifting funding landscape.