Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position)
Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position)

Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position)

Volunteer No home office possible
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The Wilberforce Trust

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic charity and help shape its future with strategic planning.
  • Company: The Wilberforce Trust, York's oldest charity supporting individuals with disabilities.
  • Benefits: Rewarding experience, personal development, and the chance to make a real impact.
  • Why this job: Join a passionate team and drive meaningful change in the community.
  • Qualifications: Experience as a Chair and understanding of not-for-profit organisations.
  • Other info: Flexible commitment of 1-2 days per quarter; diversity and lived experience valued.

Are you interested in making a real difference to a dynamic York-based charity? If you have experience as a Chair, with a clear and demonstrable understanding of the workings of not-for-profit organisations, please let us know! Our existing Chair is standing down at our next AGM and we want to ensure that we have the best possible Chair, internally from our existing Board or externally, to take us forward with our new 5 year strategic plan.

You will need to demonstrate how you have made a difference to any organisation or charity where you have acted as Chair previously and a strong alignment to our new co‑produced values. Working closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees and management team, your ability to help us continually evolve and deal with some of the challenging landscapes in which we operate will be key. Ideally, you will be based in Yorkshire and have a network and connections that can help support our work. Diversity across our Board is a vital part of how we work including lived experience.

Being a charity Trustee is both rewarding and a great development opportunity. Please click on the link to find out more. If you would like an initial chat with the CEO or current Chair or more details of the role please email elliehudson@wilberforcetrust.org.uk. Otherwise, please send your CV and supporting statement to the same email address by midnight on 17th April. Please note that the estimated time commitment for the role is 1-2 days per quarter.

About us! The Wilberforce Trust, established in 1833, is the oldest charity in York and is dedicated to supporting individuals with sight loss, hearing loss, and other disabilities. Inspired by the legacy of William Wilberforce, the Trust combines historical roots with modern advancements, operating from a state-of-the-art facility built on the original site of the Yorkshire School for the Blind. It offers a variety of services, including the YorSensory Hub for sensory assessments, a community‑focused Living & Learning Zone, and Club Wilber, a children's group. The organisation is driven by its mission to enhance the quality of life for its service users through the dedication of professional staff and committed volunteers.

Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position) employer: The Wilberforce Trust

The Wilberforce Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with visual and hearing impairments. With a strong commitment to diversity and community engagement, the charity fosters a collaborative work culture that values lived experiences and encourages personal growth. Located in the historic city of York, the Trust provides a supportive environment for its Trustees, allowing them to contribute to a vital mission while developing their leadership skills and expanding their professional networks.
The Wilberforce Trust

Contact Detail:

The Wilberforce Trust Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position)

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector, especially those who know The Wilberforce Trust. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 2

Show your passion! When you get the chance to speak with the CEO or current Chair, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous positions – it’s all about demonstrating your impact!

✨Tip Number 3

Do your homework! Familiarise yourself with The Wilberforce Trust's mission and values. Understanding their strategic plan will help you align your experience with what they’re looking for, making you a more compelling candidate.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team and committed to the cause.

We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position)

Chairing Experience
Understanding of Not-for-Profit Organisations
Strategic Planning
Leadership Skills
Collaboration with Executive Teams
Network and Connections in Yorkshire
Diversity and Inclusion Awareness
Ability to Navigate Challenging Landscapes
Commitment to Charitable Values
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Experience in Governance
Community Engagement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Impact: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight how you've made a difference in your previous roles as Chair. We want to see real examples of your leadership and the positive changes you've brought to other organisations or charities.

Align with Our Values: Take a good look at our co-produced values and think about how they resonate with you. In your supporting statement, we’d love to see how your personal values align with ours and how you can help us move forward with our strategic plan.

Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Make sure your CV and supporting statement are well-structured and to the point. Avoid jargon and keep your language straightforward so we can easily understand your experience and vision for the role.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you can find more info about the role and our mission there, which might inspire your application.

How to prepare for a job interview at The Wilberforce Trust

✨Know Your Impact

Before the interview, reflect on your previous experiences as a Chair. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've made a difference in those roles, especially in not-for-profit organisations. This will show your potential impact on The Wilberforce Trust.

✨Align with Their Values

Familiarise yourself with the co-produced values of The Wilberforce Trust. During the interview, demonstrate how your personal values and experiences align with theirs. This connection can be a key factor in showcasing your fit for the role.

✨Network Knowledge

Since having connections in Yorkshire is ideal, think about your network before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how your contacts could support the charity's mission and strategic plan. This shows you’re proactive and resourceful.

✨Engage with Their Mission

Take some time to understand the services offered by The Wilberforce Trust, like the YorSensory Hub and Club Wilber. In the interview, express your enthusiasm for their mission and how you can contribute to enhancing the quality of life for their service users.

Chair of Trustees (Voluntary Position)
The Wilberforce Trust
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