At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a charity through pivotal change, shaping its future direction and impact.
- Company: Voluntary Action North Somerset, a champion for community organisations.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with expenses covered, flexible time commitment.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with passionate people and drive real change.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful contribution to community life and leave a lasting legacy.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and ability to navigate strategic challenges.
What does it look like to Chair a charity at a pivotal moment of change? Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is an established infrastructure charity supporting, connecting and championing voluntary and community organisations across North Somerset and beyond. With a strong local reputation and a clear ambition for the future, VANS plays a vital role in strengthening communities by bringing organisations together, amplifying collective voice, and enabling others to deliver impact. Now, at an important point in its development, the organisation is focused on building on its strengths, refining how it works, and positioning itself to be futureproof. We’re looking for a new Chair to lead the charity into its next phase.
Location: Based in North Somerset working across the South West and beyond.
Remuneration: Voluntary, with expenses covered.
Time commitment: Currently in period of transition, to be considered and agreed with the successful candidate. Currently, 4 Board meetings and 2 Development days per annum, 3-4 Governance group meetings per annum, regular meetings with the CEO, as well as ad-hoc meetings, preparation and urgent, unplanned matters. Governance commitment supported by a Vice-Chair.
About the opportunity: This is a Chair role with real scope to shape both direction and approach. You’ll work alongside a committed Board and Chief Executive to provide strategic leadership, focus on achieving growth, and building a high-performing team and organisation as it continues to evolve. Following a period of growth and change, there is clear ambition to move further towards a more strategic and robust operating model, strengthening internal structures to deliver and support greater external impact.
As Chair, you’ll play a key role in:
- Keeping the Board focused, effective and forward‑looking
- Providing support and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive
- Ensuring clear governance, decision-making, and delivery
This may require someone comfortable and willing to move between strategy and hands-on support, particularly in the early stages. It will suit someone able to work in a changing environment, who is willing to invest time and leadership where it’s needed most. The exciting opportunity here is to leave a legacy of sustainability and impact.
About you: We’re open to different backgrounds and pathways into this role. You may already be a Chair, or an experienced trustee or senior leader ready to be one. What matters most is your ability to provide confident, thoughtful and effective leadership. We’re particularly interested in people who can:
- Operate at a senior strategic level and see the bigger picture
- Build strong, effective relationships across a Board and executive team
- Balance support and challenge in a constructive way
- Bring a level of commercial awareness and focus on sustainability
Experience of the voluntary sector, health or place‑based working would be valuable, but it’s not essential if you can quickly build that understanding.
Why this role matters: VANS has laid solid foundations under the previous Chair’s tenure, with a strong local reputation, passionate people and now gathering momentum. The next Chair will play an important role in ensuring the organisation is:
- Strategically-focussed, well governed and meets its goals
- Investing in building VANS and financially resilient
- Ready to grow its impact across North Somerset and beyond
This is a unique and special opportunity to meaningfully contribute to an organisation at the heart of community life.
How to apply: A CV or short profile is a great first step. We’d also welcome an informal conversation if you’d prefer to ask some questions first. Amelia Lee at Charity People is leading this search. Deadline: 9am on Wednesday 17th June. Interview dates to be confirmed and included in the pack.
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Chair of Trustees in Weston-super-Mare employer: Charity People
Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a well-respected charity at a transformative time. With a strong commitment to community impact and a collaborative work culture, VANS provides its leaders with the chance to shape strategic direction while fostering personal growth and development. Located in North Somerset, this role allows you to make a meaningful contribution to local communities, supported by a dedicated Board and a focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of Trustees in Weston-super-Mare
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can introduce you to someone influential.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local events or forums related to the charity sector. This is a great way to meet people, learn about the latest trends, and showcase your passion for community work. Plus, it’s a fab chance to make a lasting impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from informal chats! If you see an opportunity that excites you, reach out for a casual conversation with the current board members or the CEO. It shows initiative and gives you a chance to ask questions and express your interest.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the time to engage directly with us. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Trustees in Weston-super-Mare
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant skills that align with the Chair role. Keep it concise but impactful, showcasing how you can contribute to VANS' mission.
Personalise Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application. Tailor your cover letter to reflect your understanding of VANS and its goals. Show us why you're passionate about this opportunity and how your background makes you the perfect fit.
Be Ready for an Informal Chat:If you're unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to reach out for an informal conversation. It’s a great way to clarify any questions you have and demonstrate your interest in the role before applying.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It streamlines the process and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Charity People
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand VANS' mission and current challenges. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and strategic goals. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Chair, it's crucial to articulate your leadership approach. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams or organisations in the past, especially in times of change. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to balance support and challenge effectively.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that show your understanding of the role and the organisation's future. Ask about their vision for growth and how they see the Chair contributing to that. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Highlight your ability to build strong relationships with board members and executive teams. Share examples of how you've fostered collaboration and trust in previous roles. This is key for a Chair, as you'll need to keep the Board focused and effective while supporting the CEO.
