Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Standards Committee and ensure high professional standards in architecture.
- Company: Join RIBA, a key player in promoting ethics and public confidence in architecture.
- Benefits: Gain governance experience and cover for reasonable expenses.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the architectural profession at a pivotal moment.
- Qualifications: Strong governance background and ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
- Other info: Independent role with a commitment of one day per month.
Abingdon People is supporting the Royal Institute of British Architects in the appointment of an Independent Chair of its Standards Committee. This is a senior governance role with real influence at a pivotal moment for the architectural profession and the wider built environment.
RIBA plays a central role in promoting professional standards, ethics and public confidence in architecture, and the Standards Committee Chair will be instrumental in ensuring these responsibilities continue to be discharged with rigour, balance and credibility.
As Chair, you will lead the Standards Committee, creating an environment that enables open, evidence based discussion and sound decision making. You will provide strategic oversight of RIBA’s professional standards framework and work closely with the RIBA Board, Council and Executive Team, supporting collaboration across RIBA’s professional body and regulatory functions.
The role requires the ability to navigate complex and sometimes sensitive issues with judgement, diplomacy and independence. This appointment would suit an experienced Chair with a strong governance background, ideally gained within a professional body, regulator or charity. You will bring a clear understanding of good governance, the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and confidence in leading senior level discussions. Above all, you will be committed to upholding high professional standards and supporting public trust in the profession.
Due to the independent nature of the role, current RIBA members are not eligible to apply.
Key details
- The appointment is for a three-year renewable term, with an expected commitment of approximately one day per month.
- The Standards Committee meets four times per year, both in person, usually in London, and virtually.
- The role is unremunerated, with reasonable expenses covered.
- Closing date: Sunday 15 February 2026
Chair (Standards Committee) employer: RIBA
Contact Detail:
RIBA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair (Standards Committee)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the architectural field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on roles that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, recent projects, and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of examples from your past where you've navigated complex issues or led discussions. Being able to articulate these experiences will demonstrate your capability as an Independent Chair.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team and contributing to the architectural profession.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair (Standards Committee)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role inside out. Familiarise yourself with RIBA's mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show why you're the perfect fit.
Be Authentic: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for governance and architecture. Use a conversational tone that reflects your enthusiasm for the role.
Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your relevant experience in governance and stakeholder management. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've navigated complex issues in the past. This will help us see your capability in leading discussions and making sound decisions.
Apply Through Our Website: Once you’ve polished your application, make sure to submit it through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at RIBA
✨Understand the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Chair of the Standards Committee. Familiarise yourself with RIBA's professional standards framework and recent developments in the architectural profession. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Governance Experience
Highlight your previous governance roles and how they have prepared you for this position. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've navigated complex stakeholder relationships or led discussions that required diplomacy and judgement. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to manage sensitive issues and facilitate open discussions. Prepare scenarios from your past experiences where you successfully led a committee or resolved conflicts. This will showcase your strategic oversight and decision-making skills.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Professional Standards
RIBA is looking for someone who is dedicated to upholding high professional standards. Be prepared to discuss your views on ethics in architecture and how you would promote public trust in the profession. This will reinforce your alignment with RIBA's mission and values.
