Chair of Trustees

Time commitment: approximately 15–20 days per year

Location: London

Term: initial four-year term, with the opportunity to extend

Remuneration: voluntary, unremunerated role; reasonable expenses reimbursed

For more than 50 years, the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) has helped answer that question through independent, high quality social research that informs public understanding, policy and decision making. Established in 1969, NatCen is Britain's largest independent social research organisation. As a not-for-profit organisation with a clear public purpose, we give people a voice and provide the evidence and insight decision makers need to understand the society they serve.

Our work reaches into many of the defining issues of our time, including health, education, social care, work and employment, housing, crime and justice, inequality, public attitudes and the future of public services. Through major studies such as the British Social Attitudes Survey, alongside research conducted for government, charities, universities and public bodies, we help bring clarity to complex questions and ensure that public experience is heard where it matters most.

At a time when trust, evidence and public understanding have never been more important, NatCen continues to play a vital role in helping organisations, policymakers and communities understand the realities of people's lives and the challenges facing society. We are now seeking an outstanding Chair of the Board of Trustees to help shape NatCen's next chapter. Our current Chair, Sir Stuart Etherington, will complete his final term in February 2027, creating the opportunity for a carefully planned transition and for a new Chair to help guide the organisation through its next phase of development, influence and impact.

This is a rare opportunity to lead the Board of one of the UK's most respected research organisations. As society changes through shifts in technology, data, public expectations and public trust, NatCen has an increasingly important role to play in ensuring that high-quality research continues to inform better decisions.

Working closely with the Chief Executive and Board, the Chair will provide strategic leadership, support excellent governance and help ensure NatCen remains sustainable, influential and true to its charitable purpose. They will foster constructive challenge, support an experienced executive team and ensure the Board has the skills, perspectives and diversity needed for the future.

We are looking for an accomplished and values driven leader with significant board experience and a strong track record of strategic leadership. You may have built your career in research, academia, public service, government, regulation, the voluntary sector or a related field. Most importantly, you will be an effective ambassador, capable of building relationships and credibility with senior stakeholders across government, academia, research, charities, funders and the wider public policy community. You will also bring a strong commitment to good governance, integrity and accountability. Above all, you will share NatCen's belief that understanding people's lives, experiences and views is fundamental to building a better society.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

NatCen is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the society we seek to understand. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in board leadership roles.

The closing date for applications is Monday 20 July 2026.