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- Tasks: Lead the Board to drive impactful change in homelessness services across Northern Ireland.
- Company: Simon Community, a leading charity dedicated to ending homelessness since 1971.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence policy and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with quarterly meetings and a chance to engage with key stakeholders.
- Why this job: Join a respected charity at a pivotal moment and help shape its future.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and a passion for social impact are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Simon Community, Northern Ireland's leading homelessness charity, is seeking to appoint a new Chair of the Board at a critically important time for the organisation and for the wider homelessness sector. Established in 1971, Simon Community works across Northern Ireland to prevent homelessness, provide emergency and temporary accommodation, deliver specialist support, and help people secure safe, stable and sustainable homes. Its mission is clear: to end homelessness through practical action, policy influence and compassionate, person-centred services. As demand for homelessness services continues to increase, Simon Community is progressing an ambitious strategic agenda focused on prevention, earlier intervention, housing solutions, partnership working and long-term impact.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a credible and values-led leader to help guide one of Northern Ireland's most respected charities through its next chapter of influence, innovation and sustainable growth.
The Role
The Chair will provide inclusive and strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, effective oversight and a clear focus on delivering meaningful outcomes for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Working closely with the Chief Executive and fellow Board members, the successful candidate will help shape strategic priorities, support organisational sustainability, and ensure the charity is well positioned to respond to a rapidly evolving external environment. The Chair will also play an important ambassadorial role, strengthening relationships with partners, funders, policymakers and wider stakeholders. This role requires someone who can bring both support and constructive challenge, enabling high-quality Board debate, sound decision-making and collective accountability. The Chair will foster a positive and collaborative Board culture while ensuring Simon Community remains ambitious, well governed and focused on impact. Above all, the Chair will champion Simon Community's mission, values and voice, helping to enhance the organisation's visibility and influence as it works to prevent and end homelessness across Northern Ireland.
Key Skills & Experience
- Significant senior leadership and Board-level experience, ideally gained as a Chair, Trustee, Non-Executive Director or in another high-profile governance role.
- A strong understanding of corporate governance, accountability, organisational risk and the responsibilities of a modern Board.
- The strategic insight to contribute to long-term organisational direction, sustainability and change.
- Financial literacy and the confidence to oversee budgets, performance, compliance and risk at Board level.
- The ability to build effective relationships, lead inclusive discussions and enable a high-performing and collaborative Board.
- Strong communication and influencing skills, with the credibility to engage confidently with senior stakeholders, partners, funders and policymakers.
- A clear personal commitment to Simon Community's values and to improving outcomes for people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
- Experience within homelessness, housing, health, social care, the voluntary and community sector, public policy or other mission-led environments would be particularly valuable.
Time Commitment
The Board meets quarterly, in addition to the Annual General Meeting, with further time required for Board preparation, committee involvement and occasional stakeholder engagement. This appointment is likely to suit an individual who can commit the time and energy required to support an ambitious and high-impact organisation.
Application Process
For a confidential discussion or to apply, please visit Clarendon Executive website for further details.
Chair of the Board in Lisburn employer: Clarendon Executive
Contact Detail:
Clarendon Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Board in Lisburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the homelessness sector or related fields. Attend events, join forums, and engage with people who share your passion for making a difference. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Research organisations like Simon Community and reach out directly. Express your interest in contributing to their mission and ask about potential openings or ways to get involved.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to meet with stakeholders or during interviews, highlight your experience in governance and strategic oversight. Share specific examples of how you've made an impact in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay informed about the sector! Keep up with trends and challenges in homelessness and social care. This knowledge will not only help you in conversations but also demonstrate your commitment to the cause when applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Board in Lisburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the organisation. Dive into Simon Community's mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show you're the perfect fit!
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 tackling homelessness and how your values align with ours. Authenticity goes a long way in making a memorable impression.
Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your relevant leadership and governance experience clearly. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in strategic oversight, financial literacy, and relationship building. This is your chance to show us how you can contribute to our mission!
Follow the Application Instructions: Make sure you read the application process carefully and follow it to the letter. Applying through our website is the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t skip any steps – we’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clarendon Executive
✨Know the Mission Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you fully understand Simon Community's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work in preventing homelessness and the strategic agenda they are pursuing. This will not only show your commitment but also help you articulate how your leadership experience aligns with their goals.
✨Prepare for Governance Questions
Given the importance of governance in this role, be ready to discuss your understanding of corporate governance and accountability. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex governance issues or led a Board through challenging times.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Insight
The Chair needs to contribute to long-term organisational direction, so come prepared with ideas on how to enhance Simon Community's impact. Think about potential partnerships, innovative solutions, or strategies that could help them respond to the evolving homelessness landscape.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Relationships
As an ambassador for Simon Community, you'll need to build effective relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss your experience in engaging with funders, policymakers, and partners. Highlight specific instances where your communication and influencing skills made a difference in your previous roles.