At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a movement to change recovery systems and support communities.
- Company: A dynamic charity focused on lived experience and impactful change.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence real change and work with passionate individuals.
- Other info: Join a vibrant Board and help shape the future of recovery.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey that genuinely changes lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, a passion for change, and a commitment to our mission.
We are a growing movement of people with lived experience, working together to change how recovery is understood, supported and delivered - not just in communities, but across whole systems. Over the past few years, we’ve built something powerful: a recovery community of over 2,000 people, a voice that is being heard and a model that is influencing how services are designed. Now, we are stepping into our next chapter. Following the resignation of our Chair, we are looking for a new Chair of Trustees, someone who doesn’t just want to oversee a charity, but who wants to help lead a movement. We are also recruiting new Trustees who bring expertise, perspective and energy. We are looking for people who are willing to challenge, support and help us go further. This is not about maintaining the status quo. This is about helping us push boundaries, shift power, and continue building something that genuinely changes lives. If you think you have the experience, skills and commitment for a role on our Board, we would love to hear from you.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Yes, governance matters. Yes, structure matters. But this role is about more than agendas and compliance. As Chair, you will help hold the space between grassroots energy and strategic leadership, ensuring we stay true to our values while continuing to grow, influence and evolve. You will work closely with the CEO, not just as oversight, but as a trusted partner, offering support, challenge and perspective as the organisation navigates growth, complexity and opportunity. You will lead a Board that reflects our ambition: thoughtful, committed, and not afraid to ask difficult questions. Most importantly, you will help ensure that lived experience remains at the heart of everything we do, not as a token, but as a driving force for change.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We are not looking for someone who simply wants to “give back” from a distance. We are looking for someone who:
- Understands the power of lived experience, whether personally or professionally
- Is comfortable operating in a space that is evolving, sometimes messy, and full of energy
- Can balance governance with humanity
- Is willing to challenge constructively and be challenged in return
- Believes that systems can and should change
You will bring experience of Chairing a charity, but more importantly, you will bring curiosity, humility and a genuine commitment to our mission.
Trustee Opportunities
ROLE OF A TRUSTEE
Alongside the Chair, we are also seeking to strengthen our Board through the recruitment of new Trustees. We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Legal
- Financial / Accountancy
- Governance
- Fundraising & Income Generation
- Networks / Partnerships
Trustees will:
- Contribute to strategic direction and decision-making
- Ensure effective governance and oversight
- Monitor financial performance and organisational risk
- Act as ambassadors for the organisation
- Support the CEO and senior team through insight and expertise
WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
- Professional knowledge
- Real-world perspective
- Honest challenge
- A willingness to listen and learn
You don’t need to have been a Trustee before. But you do need to care and be ready to contribute.
Time commitment: Quarterly Board meetings, plus occasional additional meetings and preparation time. The Chair role will require additional time.
How to Apply
If you are interested in applying for the role of Chair or Trustee, please send:
- A copy of your CV
- A short cover letter outlining your interest and suitability
- Details of two referees
Send applications to: laurence@essexrecoveryfoundation.org
For more information about the roles, please take a look at our application pack.
Chair & Trustees in Essex employer: Essex Recovery Foundation
Join a dynamic and impactful movement dedicated to transforming recovery through lived experience. As a Chair or Trustee, you will be part of a passionate community that values collaboration, innovation, and genuine change, all while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises personal growth and meaningful contributions. This is an opportunity to lead with purpose in a role that not only influences the future of recovery services but also empowers individuals to share their stories and drive systemic change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair & Trustees in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and connect with others who share your passion for recovery. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights into opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Be bold in your approach! When you find a role that excites you, don’t just apply – follow up with a call or an email. Show your enthusiasm and let them know why you’re the perfect fit for their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the organisation’s values and recent developments. Bring your lived experience into the conversation; it’s what makes you unique and shows you’re genuinely invested in their cause.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our movement.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair & Trustees in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to express your passion for the role and how your lived experience aligns with our mission. Keep it concise but impactful, showing us why you’re the perfect fit.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience, especially in governance or charity work. We want to see how your skills can help us push boundaries and create real change.
Showcase Your Commitment:We’re looking for someone who’s genuinely committed to our cause. Use your application to demonstrate your understanding of the power of lived experience and how you can contribute to our movement.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for a smoother process! It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important details about the roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Recovery Foundation
✨Understand the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the mission of the organisation. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they aim to change lives through lived experience. This will help you articulate why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the challenges and opportunities the organisation faces. Asking about their strategic direction or how they plan to engage with the community shows that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in the impact you can make.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experiences, especially those that relate to governance, leadership, or working with communities. Highlight specific examples where you've challenged the status quo or contributed to meaningful change, as this aligns with what they’re looking for.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with the CEO and other trustees, demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked in teams, supported others, and navigated complex situations while maintaining a focus on shared goals.
