At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Board, ensuring strong governance and strategic oversight for a community-focused arts organisation.
- Company: Join Company of Others, an award-winning dance theatre organisation in North East England.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with reasonable expenses reimbursed and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence change in the arts and represent underrepresented voices in leadership.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a culturally significant organisation committed to equity and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Strong judgement, emotional intelligence, and experience in governance or leadership roles.
Company of Others is seeking an exceptional individual to become the next Chair of our Board. This is not a traditional Chair opportunity. We are looking for someone who can provide strategic leadership and robust governance whilst also bringing empathy, curiosity and a deep commitment to equity. Someone who understands that leadership is as much about relationships, listening and shared power as it is about oversight and accountability.
As Company of Others enters an exciting new chapter, we are seeking a Chair who can help steward the organisation through growth, change and opportunity whilst remaining grounded in the values and communities that sit at the heart of our work.
About Company of Others:
- An award-winning dance theatre organisation based in the North East of England.
- Founded as a space where people who experience being othered by society can be creatively free and ambitious about what they can achieve together.
- A nationally recognised force for artistic excellence, community engagement and social impact.
- An Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.
- The UK's first Dance Company of Sanctuary.
- A trusted community anchor organisation rooted in Walker, Newcastle.
- A leader in co-created artistic practice and community-centred cultural development.
Everything we do is guided by our values of Artistry, Integrity and Equity.
The Opportunity:
Working closely with the Artistic Director & CEO, the Chair will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's future. You will lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance, supporting strategic decision-making and helping the organisation navigate an increasingly complex operating environment. Equally importantly, you will act as a trusted adviser, thought partner and ambassador, helping to ensure Company of Others remains artistically ambitious, financially sustainable and deeply accountable to the communities it serves.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the Board in delivering strong governance and strategic oversight.
- Foster an inclusive and collaborative Board culture.
- Support Trustee development, succession planning and Board effectiveness.
- Build a strong and productive partnership with the Artistic Director & CEO.
- Support strategic planning, organisational development and sustainability.
- Champion the organisation's values and commitment to equity.
- Act as an ambassador and advocate for Company of Others.
- Help strengthen partnerships, influence and opportunities for growth.
Who We Are Looking For:
We are interested in hearing from people who bring:
- Strong judgement and strategic thinking.
- Emotional intelligence and an inclusive leadership style.
- Experience of governance, executive leadership or influencing at a senior level.
- An understanding of organisational stewardship and accountability.
- The ability to navigate complexity, challenge constructively and build trust.
- A genuine commitment to equity, representation and community-centred leadership.
Most importantly, we are looking for someone who believes leadership can be both rigorous and relational.
Experience We Value:
You may have gained your experience through:
- Board, Trustee or Non-Executive leadership.
- Executive or senior leadership roles.
- Community leadership or social impact work.
- Arts, culture, charity, education, public service or commercial sectors.
Previous Chair experience is not essential. Nor is experience within dance or the arts. We are particularly keen to hear from individuals whose voices and perspectives remain underrepresented within boardrooms and cultural leadership spaces. We recognise that talent, leadership potential and governance capability are found across all communities and lived experiences.
Time Commitment:
The role includes:
- Four formal Board meetings each year.
- One or two annual Board away days.
- Regular meetings with the Artistic Director & CEO.
- Attendance at selected Company of Others events.
The appointment is for an initial three-year term with the possibility of a further term. The role is voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.
Join Us:
This is an opportunity to help shape the future of one of the North East's most innovative and community-rooted cultural organisations. If you are motivated by purpose, equity and the power of arts and culture to create change, we would love to hear from you.
Closing Date: Monday 22 June 2026.
For a confidential conversation or to request the recruitment pack, please contact our retained consultancy Castle Peak Group.
Chairperson in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Company of Others
Company of Others is an exceptional employer that champions equity, community engagement, and artistic excellence in the heart of North East England. With a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive work culture, the organisation offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth, particularly for those passionate about social impact and the arts. As a voluntary role, the Chairperson will play a pivotal part in shaping the future of this innovative dance theatre company, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chairperson in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, attend events, and connect with others who share your passion for community and equity. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Be bold and proactive! If you see an opportunity at Company of Others or elsewhere, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and show us how your unique perspective can make a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the organisation's values and mission. Be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with our commitment to equity and community engagement. We love hearing about your experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you note can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm and appreciation. It’s a great chance to reiterate your commitment to the role and the values we stand for.
We think you need these skills to ace Chairperson in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see your passion for equity and community, so don’t hold back on sharing your personal experiences and values.
Show Your Leadership Style:Make sure to highlight your unique approach to leadership. We’re looking for someone who understands the importance of relationships and collaboration, so share examples that showcase your emotional intelligence and inclusive style.
Connect with Our Values:Familiarise yourself with our core values of Artistry, Integrity, and Equity. In your application, demonstrate how these resonate with you and how you can embody them as Chair of the Board.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape the future of Company of Others.
How to prepare for a job interview at Company of Others
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, dive deep into Company of Others' values of Artistry, Integrity, and Equity. Reflect on how these values resonate with your own experiences and leadership style. Being able to articulate this connection will show your genuine commitment to the organisation's mission.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
As a potential Chair, you'll need to demonstrate strong judgement and strategic thinking. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex situations or made impactful decisions. This will help you showcase your ability to provide robust governance and support strategic decision-making.
✨Emphasise Emotional Intelligence
Given the emphasis on empathy and inclusive leadership in the role, think about instances where you've built trust and fostered collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you approach relationships and shared power, as this will be crucial in demonstrating your fit for the position.
✨Showcase Your Community Commitment
Company of Others is deeply rooted in community engagement. Prepare to discuss your experiences in community leadership or social impact work. Highlight how you can champion the organisation's commitment to equity and representation, which will resonate well with the interviewers.
