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 commitment of 1-2 days per month; open to diverse applicants.
- 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
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.
Chair of Trustees employer: Mary Frances Trust
Mary Frances Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact on mental health in Surrey. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, the organisation fosters a collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives and lived experiences. As a Chair of Trustees, you will have the opportunity to lead a passionate team, influence strategic direction, and contribute to the wellbeing of individuals across the region, all while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of Trustees
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health sector or charity governance. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for mental health! When you get the chance to meet potential trustees or stakeholders, share your personal connection to the cause. It makes you memorable and shows you care.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding MFT’s values and mission inside out. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals and be ready to discuss it confidently.
✨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!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Trustees
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Chair of Trustees role. Highlight your governance experience and any relevant leadership roles you've held, as this will show us you're a great fit for our Board.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for mental health and how your values align with ours at Mary Frances Trust. Be specific about how you meet the person specification and what unique perspectives you bring.
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:As a Chair, you'll need to foster strong relationships. In your application, give examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others or led teams. This will help us see your potential to build connections within our Board and community.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mary Frances Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with Mary Frances Trust's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their approach to mental health and community support will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your governance and leadership experience. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully chaired meetings or led teams, especially in challenging situations, as this role requires strong leadership and the ability to foster collaboration.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the local community and its needs. Share any relevant experiences you have in community engagement or working with diverse groups, as this will highlight your commitment to MFT’s inclusive values.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the Board's current challenges and future direction. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation is the right fit for you.
