At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Board to ensure effective governance and strategic direction for mental health support.
- Company: Mary Frances Trust, a leading charity focused on mental health and emotional wellbeing.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with expenses reimbursed; make a real difference in your community.
- Other info: Flexible role with a supportive and collaborative Board environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of mental health services and empower individuals across Surrey.
- Qualifications: Strong governance experience and a passion for mental health advocacy.
Location: Surrey / Hybrid
Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month
Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)
Term: Three-year term, with potential for reappointment for up to two further terms.
We are open to reasonable adjustments and flexible approaches to the role.
Make a Lasting Impact on Mental Health in Surrey
Mary Frances Trust (MFT) is a leading mental health and emotional wellbeing charity supporting people across Surrey to live fulfilling, empowered lives. We work alongside individuals experiencing any kind of mental or emotional health challenge, offering long term, community based support co-produced with people with lived experience.
As we enter an exciting new phase of growth, we are seeking a Chair of Trustees to guide our Board and help shape the future of our organisation. This is a pivotal leadership role for someone who is passionate about mental health, strong governance, and community impact.
About Us
For over 30 years, MFT has delivered high quality, person centred services in partnership with the NHS, local authorities and the voluntary sector. Our values Inspiring, Inclusive, Agile and Respectful underpin everything we do.
Our Board is friendly, collaborative, and committed, providing strong governance and strategic oversight while supporting our dedicated staff and volunteers.
The Role
As Chair, you will:
- Lead the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction.
- Support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive, including annual performance review.
- Foster strong relationships between Trustees, staff, volunteers, Members, the Advisory Group and external partners.
- Act as an ambassador for MFT where appropriate.
- Plan and chair Board meetings and the AGM, ensuring balanced discussion and clear decisions.
- Oversee Board effectiveness, succession planning and compliance with legal and regulatory duties.
- Champion MFT's values and our commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing across Surrey.
Person Specification
You will bring:
- Strong governance and leadership experience.
- The ability to chair meetings confidently and inclusively.
- Sound judgement and the ability to support and challenge constructively.
- Excellent interpersonal, diplomatic and communication skills.
- Understanding of the mental health, wellbeing or wider voluntary sector.
- Capacity to commit 1–2 days per month.
- Commitment to MFT's mission, values and community impact.
Desirable (not essential):
- HR / people governance experience.
- Experience handling escalated complaints or appeals at Board level.
- Experience of co-production or lived experience led approaches.
- Lived experience of mental health issues or caring responsibilities, we value lived experience alongside governance and leadership skills.
How to Apply
Please send:
- Your CV
- A covering letter outlining your interest and how you meet the person specification
To: kerry@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
We welcome applications from people under-represented in charity governance (including disabled people, people from minoritised ethnic communities, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges).
Deadline: 3rd June 2026
Interviews: Second week of June 2026
Anticipated appointment: July 2026 (with handover period)
For an informal, confidential conversation, contact: Sam Greenhouse, Chair of Trustees (sam@maryfrancestrust.org.uk)
Chair of Trustees in Surrey employer: LinkedIn
Mary Frances Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact on mental health in Surrey. With a collaborative and inclusive work culture, the organisation offers unique opportunities for personal growth and community engagement, allowing individuals to contribute to vital mental health initiatives while being supported by a passionate Board and staff. As a Chair of Trustees, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our charity, all while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model and the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of Trustees in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health sector or related fields. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for roles to be advertised. Contact organisations like Mary Frances Trust directly and express your interest in contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for informal chats. If you get the chance to speak with someone from the organisation, have a few thoughtful questions ready about their work and how you can add value.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion! When you do get an interview, let your enthusiasm for mental health shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that connect you to the cause.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Trustees in Surrey
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 mental health and how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see your personality come through, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your CV:When applying, ensure your CV highlights relevant governance and leadership experience. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and commitment to MFT's mission. Customise it to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:As Chair, you'll need to foster relationships and communicate effectively. Use your application to illustrate your interpersonal skills. Share anecdotes or experiences that highlight your ability to connect with others and lead a team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re keen on being part of our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Mary Frances Trust's mission and values. Understand their approach to mental health and community support. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a potential Chair of Trustees, it's crucial to demonstrate your governance experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've led teams or boards in the past, especially in challenging situations. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and inclusivity.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation. Ask about their future plans, challenges they face, or how they measure success in their initiatives. This shows you're engaged and forward-thinking.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Mental Health
Share any personal experiences or insights related to mental health, whether through lived experience or professional involvement. This will resonate with the board and underline your passion for the cause, making you a more compelling candidate.
