Military Wives Choirs – Chief Executive

Hybrid (with regular travel to London) – £65,000+

From its origins back in 2010, the Military Wives Choirs has grown into a national sensation, spanning 72 choirs of approximately 1,800 members in the UK and overseas. Built on the simple act of singing together, the movement has become a steady source of connection for women in the Armed Forces community who understand and share the unique challenges of military life. Its ethos of Sing, Share, Support reflects what the organisation offers: a place to meet others, reduce isolation and build confidence through shared musical activity.

As the organisation approaches its fifteenth anniversary, it is entering an important phase. It has a committed membership, a recognised profile, and a mission that remains relevant. The next Chief Executive Officer will guide the organisation into its next chapter, focusing on long‑term stability, clearer structures and a stronger sense of cohesion across its network.

The Role

As the incumbent CEO retires, the Chief Executive Officer position at the Military Wives Choirs has become available – a rare and exciting leadership opportunity within a highly respected organisation. This is an outward‑facing, high‑profile role with a powerful social purpose. And thus, it requires a driven and values‑led leader capable of taking responsibility for both daily operations and longer-term strategy.

The incoming CEO will work in close partnership with the Board of Trustees, the Artistic Director, and the Choirs Support Team, to turn ambition into clear, achievable plans. They will bring focus, clarity and momentum to the 3.6 FTE team, supporting the charity to build a stronger sense of alignment across its choirs, to ultimately strengthen its profile and enhance the member experience.

This role requires a leader who is as comfortable managing a complex array of high-profile stakeholders and representing the charity at key events, as they are leading the day‑to‑day operations of the charity.

The incoming Chief Executive Officer will:

• Ensure the Military Wives Choirs delivers its charitable purpose to beneficiaries across the choir network.
• Lead and inspire staff and volunteers, fostering a positive, inclusive, professional culture.
• Strengthen systems, clarity, and organisational ways of working.
• Deliver strategic goals, taking the Military Wives Choirs from strength to strength under their leadership.
• Drive income generation through partnerships, philanthropy and fundraising.
• Manage performance with fairness, accountability and high standards.
• Represent the organisation confidently across the arts, charity, military and media landscapes.

The Candidate

We are looking for an experienced senior leader who can set direction, strengthen organisational practice, and ensure steady delivery across a national network. You will have managed teams, made decisions with confidence, and overseen both operational and strategic work. You will be a clear communicator who builds productive relationships and supports staff and volunteers to perform well.

Working closely with the Artistic Director, the Board and the Choirs Support Teams will be central to the role. The incoming CEO will represent the organisation confidently and speak about its purpose in a straightforward way, building connections with partners, funders and stakeholders. Sound financial understanding and the ability to balance day‑to‑day needs with long‑term planning will be important. You do not need to be a professional musician, but you should understand the role music plays in the organisation and work well with artistic colleagues. Above all, you will take a practical, steady approach and be committed to supporting the organisation and its members.