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- Tasks: Lead a transformative charity focused on nature-based education and therapy.
- Company: Wilderness Foundation UK, an award-winning charity dedicated to social change through nature.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Inspire change and lead a passionate team in a mission-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience, strong strategic vision, and a passion for nature.
- Other info: Join a dynamic organisation with a commitment to wellbeing and conservation.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: ÂŁ60,000 to ÂŁ70,000 per annum, depending on experience
Contract Type: Full time
Hours: 40 per week
Length of employment: Permanent
Location: Chatham Green, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 3FE
Closing date of vacancy: 31st January 2026
About Wilderness Foundation UK
Wilderness Foundation UK is an award‑winning charity dedicated to transforming lives through nature. They work with young people and adults using nature‑based education, wilderness and nature‑based therapy, and the conservation of wild places to support wellbeing, resilience, leadership, and long‑term social change. Rooted in evidence‑based practice and delivered by experienced practitioners, their programmes reconnect people to nature and to themselves, while actively protecting wild environments for future generations. The Wilderness Foundation believe that when people encounter wild nature meaningfully, lives shift and landscapes are safeguarded.
About The Role
The Wilderness Foundation are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead Wilderness Foundation UK into its next chapter of impact, influence, and sustainability. This is a pivotal leadership role for a values‑driven, visionary CEO who can inspire people, shape strategy, and steward the charity's mission with integrity and ambition. You will work closely with the Board of Trustees, senior leadership team, staff, volunteers, funders, partners, and supporters to ensure the organisation thrives operationally, financially, and culturally.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & Vision
- Provide inspirational leadership and a clear, compelling vision aligned with the charity's mission and values
- Develop and deliver a long‑term strategy that strengthens impact, reach, and sustainability
- Lead organisational growth while safeguarding programme quality and ethos
- Organisational Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and support a skilled and passionate staff team
- Foster a healthy, inclusive, and high‑performing organisational culture
- Ensure robust governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance
- Finance & Sustainability
- Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and performance to ensure long‑term viability
- Drive income diversification through fundraising, partnerships, grants, and trading activity
- Work closely with the Board on financial strategy and accountability
- External Relations & Advocacy
- Act as the principal ambassador and spokesperson for Wilderness Foundation UK
- Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, partners, commissioners, and stakeholders
- Represent the charity within the nature, conservation, wellbeing, and youth sectors
- Ensure the delivery of high‑quality, evidence‑based nature and wilderness programmes
- Champion innovation in nature‑based education and therapy
- Uphold strong monitoring, evaluation, and learning to demonstrate impact
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Skills
- Proven experience at Chief Executive or equivalent senior leadership level
- Strong strategic leadership with the ability to inspire trust and commitment
- Demonstrable success in leading and developing organisations, ideally within the charity or social impact sector
- Sound financial acumen, including budgeting and income generation
- Experience working with or alongside Boards of Trustees
- Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills
- Experience in nature‑based education, wilderness or nature‑based therapy, conservation, wellbeing, youth work, or related fields
- Fundraising and partnership development experience
- Understanding of safeguarding, trauma‑informed practice, or therapeutic environments
Personal Attributes
- Purpose led, authentic, and values driven
- Visionary yet grounded, able to balance inspiration with delivery
- Comfortable leading in complexity and change
- Deep respect for people, nature, and the transformative power of wild places
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Wilderness Foundation UK in Southampton employer: Local Government Chronicle
Contact Detail:
Local Government Chronicle Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Wilderness Foundation UK in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the charity sector, especially those connected to nature and wellbeing. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews – you never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the cause! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express why you care about nature and social change. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to the mission of organisations like Wilderness Foundation UK.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their programmes, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also allow you to ask insightful ones, showing that you’re genuinely interested in leading their mission forward.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Wilderness Foundation UK in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand Wilderness Foundation UK's mission and values. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in nature-based education and social impact.
Be Authentic: Showcase your genuine passion for the role and the charity's mission. Use your own voice and experiences to convey why you're the perfect fit for the CEO position. Remember, they want to see the real you!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise your previous leadership roles and any experience in the charity sector. Discuss specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire teams and drive organisational growth.
Follow Application Instructions: When applying, ensure you follow the instructions provided on our website. Submit all required documents and double-check for any specific details they might be looking for. A well-organised application shows professionalism!
How to prepare for a job interview at Local Government Chronicle
✨Know the Mission Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into Wilderness Foundation UK's mission and values. Understand how they transform lives through nature and be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs. This shows genuine interest and commitment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential CEO, it's crucial to articulate your leadership philosophy. Prepare examples of how you've inspired teams and driven strategic initiatives in previous roles. Highlight your experience in fostering inclusive cultures and managing change.
✨Demonstrate Financial Savvy
Brush up on financial planning and budgeting principles relevant to the charity sector. Be prepared to discuss your experience with income generation and how you would approach financial sustainability for the organisation.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with various stakeholders, from funders to volunteers. Prepare to share strategies you've used to build strong partnerships and advocate for organisational goals, showcasing your communication skills.