Global Chair of the Board — Sustainable Development

This is an exceptional opportunity to Chair the governing board of an established and respected organisation addressing the most important concerns facing our world today. CHEC is looking for a dynamic and experienced applicant for the role of Chair, who is keen to provide strategic leadership and deploy influencing skills in support of the diverse aims and objectives of the organisation.

Background

The Commonwealth Human Ecology Council (CHEC) drives action for sustainable development. At the heart of our mission is human ecology — understanding and strengthening the vital relationship in which ecological systems and human societies interact. For more than 55 years, CHEC has delivered education, advocacy, policy publications, and encouraged high‑level partnerships while funding community‑led initiatives that create real, local impact. Our projects span Australia and the Pacific (Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia), Barbados, Bangladesh, Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, The Gambia, Ghana, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Kenya, Malta, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of the Commonwealth Human Ecology Council is to advance efforts towards a sustainable future, which demands not only innovative technological development but awareness and guidelines on the impacts to resources, ecosystems, biodiversity, livelihoods and health. It requires environmental management to improve local adaptation and resilience in ways that enhance the livelihoods and health of communities.

• Funding local community initiative projects that strengthen resilience and support community‑led solutions
• Publishing journals that reach policymakers and inform sustainable development
• Hosting events and participating in international conferences to share expertise and amplify Commonwealth perspectives
• Providing evidence and guidance to governments, civil society, and multilateral bodies

Objectives

• Raise awareness by bringing together scientists, ecologists, indigenous peoples, educationalists, practitioners, academics, lawyers, policymakers and other expert communities through journals and events.
• Support advocacy by providing community‑level evidence and solutions through funding projects, educational outreach and policy guidance to strengthen resilience and inform decision‑making.
• Advance CHEC’s influence through its formal accreditation to numerous relevant organisations within the international system, which acts as a vehicle of change to make meaningful contributions:
• Accreditation to COP through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
• Accreditation to the Commonwealth Secretariat
• Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

Role and Responsibilities

The Chair oversees and governs the organisation, guided and supported by an active and engaged international governing board of senior experts, practitioners, academics and youth representatives. As chair, you will attend six governing board meetings a year and be supported by the Honorary Treasurer, Secretary and other Trustees to ensure CHEC has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction. You will support and hold the Governing Board responsible for delivering the strategy and ensure we comply with all legal, regulatory, and financial requirements, maintaining CHEC’s high standard of corporate governance.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary role; however, reasonable funds can be made available for travel to UK meetings and, on occasion, for international events.

Candidate Requirements

• Must be UK-based. Governing Board meetings are held both in person in London and virtually, hybrid format.
• Proven leadership experience within international development.
• At least 5 years of experience on a governing board of a UK charity with a strong understanding of governance principles to ensure that CHEC operates in compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Knowledge and experience in the role of Chair and managing charity financial resources.
• A passion for sustainable development and practices that champion the environment and respect for gender, youth, and diverse perspectives to ensure CHEC's initiatives are inclusive.
• Proven communication skills to facilitate the organisation's goals, activities, and achievements to a wide range of audiences.
• Understanding of and commitment to the purpose and value of the Commonwealth of Nations in the 21st century, including the Commonwealth Charter.
• Excellent networking skills to foster partnerships and collaborations with stakeholders, civil society and a willingness to attend conferences such as CHOGM and COP to maximise CHEC's impact.
• Experience working with the Commonwealth, its secretariat, the UN, or other multilateral organisations.
• Proven experience of engaging with civil society organisations to develop networks and partnerships.

How to Apply

Application deadline is the 1st September 2026. Applications should include a CV, a Cover Letter, and Two References. All applications should be sent to: secretary@checinternational.org Applications and interviews will be organised on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.