At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dedicated board to support older people in your community.
- Company: Well-loved local charity focused on improving lives of older individuals.
- Benefits: Gain leadership experience, connect with the community, and make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of up to 3 hours a week, with great growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of a charity that enhances the wellbeing of older people.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience and strong communication skills are essential.
We are looking for a chair of trustees for an established and well-loved local charity, supporting older people in the Ilkley area. You can make a real difference to the older people in our community by leading our board of trustees over the next few years. You will be supported by a very committed group of trustees with diverse backgrounds, including two former chairs, so you won’t be on your own. We also have a very capable manager in post and a robust financial position. We aim to directly improve the mental health and wellbeing and reduce isolation of those we support. Our clients are amazing people who have rich backgrounds and our support makes a huge difference to their day-to-day lives.
You will also gain insight into how the charity sector and board structures work. It is also an opportunity to connect more closely with your local community and meet a broad range of people.
Person Specification
We recognize every candidate will have different strengths and experience and may not meet every point below.
- Essential
- Experience of leadership at Committee or senior management level.
- Ability to build strong, supportive relationships with the Manager and trustees.
- Strong empathy, communication, facilitation, and decision-making skills.
- Commitment to the wellbeing and rights of older people.
- Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries between governance and day-to-day operations.
- Desirable
- Experience in the voluntary sector or community services.
- Knowledge of safeguarding, risk management, or charity finance.
- Local community knowledge or networks.
- Understanding of governance and the legal duties of charity trustees.
What will you be doing?
Role Description: Chair of Committee of Trustees
Organisation: Small community charity supporting older people
Reports to: Committee of Trustees (collectively accountable)
Works closely with: Charity Manager
Time commitment: Up to 3 hours a week, flexible daytime/evenings
Location: Ilkley
Purpose of the Role: The Chair provides leadership to the Committee of Trustees, ensuring the charity is well-governed, legally compliant, and strategically focused. The Chair supports and oversees the Manager, who has delegated responsibility for day-to-day operations. The Chair ensures the Committee works effectively, makes sound decisions, and fulfils its duties in the best interests of older people who use the charity’s services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Oversight
- Lead the Board in jointly setting the charity’s strategic direction and priorities.
- Ensure decisions are informed by evidence, community need, and the charity’s values.
- Work with the Manager to monitor progress against strategic objectives.
- Encourage innovation and long-term planning while safeguarding the charity’s stability.
- Supporting and Supervising the Manager
- Act as the primary point of contact between the Committee and the Manager.
- Provide regular support, guidance, and constructive challenge to the Manager.
- Conduct the Manager’s annual appraisal and ensure they have appropriate professional development.
- Governance Leadership
- Lead the Committee in fulfilling its legal, financial, and strategic responsibilities, with support from trustees and local experts (e.g. CABAD).
- Ensure the Committee operates collectively, constructively, and with a clear focus on the charity’s mission.
- Escalate issues to the full Committee when decisions exceed delegated limits or involve significant risk.
- Committee Management
- Chair Committee meetings effectively, ensuring inclusive discussion and sound decision-making.
- Address any governance issues, conflicts, or underperformance within the Committee.
- External Representation
- Act as an ambassador for the charity when appropriate.
- Build positive relationships with key stakeholders, funders, and partners.
- Support the Manager in representing the charity externally, stepping in only when strategic leadership is required.
- Risk, Safeguarding & Compliance
- Ensure the Committee maintains effective oversight of safeguarding, financial management, and risk.
- Work with the Manager to ensure robust policies are in place and regularly reviewed.
- Ensure serious incidents or risks are reported to the Committee and, where required, to regulators.
Chair of trustees for charity (unpaid) - Volunteer in Ilkley employer: Ilkley & District Good Neighbours
As the Chair of Trustees for our well-loved charity in Ilkley, you will join a dedicated team committed to enhancing the lives of older people in our community. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a passionate board, gain valuable insights into the charity sector, and foster meaningful connections within the local area, all while making a significant impact on the wellbeing of those we serve. With a supportive environment and a focus on collaboration, you will be empowered to drive positive change and ensure the charity's mission thrives.
Contact Detail:
Ilkley & District Good Neighbours Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of trustees for charity (unpaid) - Volunteer in Ilkley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your local community groups or charity events in Ilkley. Meeting people face-to-face can open doors and give you insights into the role that you won't find online.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for supporting older people! When you chat with potential trustees or community members, share your experiences and ideas on how to improve their wellbeing. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 3
Get familiar with the charity's mission and values. Before any meetings or interviews, do your homework! Understanding their goals will help you align your vision and demonstrate that you're the right fit for the chair position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of trustees for charity (unpaid) - Volunteer in Ilkley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting older people shine through. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to want to make a difference in the community.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any leadership experience you have, especially in committee or management roles. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Chair position.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your skills and how they relate to the role. This helps us understand your fit for the position quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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 fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ilkley & District Good Neighbours
✨Know the Charity Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the charity thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, and the specific needs of older people in the Ilkley area. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your leadership can align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles, especially in committee or senior management settings. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led a team or made impactful decisions, as this will demonstrate your capability to guide the board effectively.
✨Emphasise Empathy and Communication Skills
Given the focus on supporting older people, it's crucial to convey your empathy and communication skills during the interview. Share experiences that showcase your ability to build strong relationships and facilitate discussions, as these are key traits for the Chair role.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful queries about the charity's strategic direction, challenges they face, or how the board collaborates with the manager. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
