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- Tasks: Lead the Board of a dynamic charity focused on urban greening and tree equity.
- Company: Trees for Cities, a national charity empowering communities to plant and care for trees.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a significant impact on social and environmental justice.
- Why this job: Shape the future of urban spaces and inspire communities through strategic leadership.
- Qualifications: Board-level experience with strong communication and leadership skills.
- Other info: Diverse candidates are encouraged to apply, reflecting the communities we serve.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Trees for Cities is an independent national charity that empowers people to plant and care for trees in towns and cities, targeting places where they have the greatest impact for people and nature. Through trees, we connect people to nature, enrich lives and create leafy, liveable places for today and future generations. In a world facing unprecedented threats from climate change, biodiversity loss and disconnection from nature, our work has never been more urgent.
Since 1993, Trees for Cities has engaged 260,000 people to plant and care for almost 2 million trees across 100 urban areas in the UK and overseas. We are proud to operate at the intersection of social and environmental justice, focusing on communities with the least access to green space and the benefits it brings. To deepen this work, we have developed a new five-year strategy (2025–2030) with the goal of creating a Movement for Urban Trees and Tree Equity. As we enter this ambitious new strategic phase, the new Chair will play a leading role in overseeing its successful embedding and impact.
This is a rare opportunity to lead the Board of a dynamic, growing charity at a pivotal moment. Our Trustees are recruited for their diverse skills and perspectives, and we are proud of our strong governance practices and healthy Board culture. Together, we provide constructive challenge and meaningful support to the executive team, guided by the organisational values that sit at the heart of how we work.
We are seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair, continuing this work, offering strategic leadership and robust governance to ensure Trees for Cities continues to thrive and grow in impact. You will bring Board-level experience, including as a Chair, Vice Chair and/or Trustee/Non-Executive Director, and a proven ability to chair Board or committee meetings effectively. With strategic vision and the confidence to navigate complexity, you will demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, build consensus and manage diverse perspectives. You will bring a supportive and empowering approach, with a coaching style of leadership that empowers and enables others to thrive.
Experience in the environmental, sustainability or urban greening sectors is desirable but not essential; what matters most is your ability to lead with integrity, inspire others and drive impact. We want our Board to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and particularly welcome applications from individuals from Black, Asian or other minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and those with lived experience of environmental or social injustice. If you are motivated to help shape our next chapter and bring the leadership and experience to guide our ambition, we encourage you to apply.
To read more about our work, the role and how to apply, please download the full appointment brief.
Closing Date: 11 March 2026
People Beyond Profit online conversations: 17 March – 15 April 2026
CEO online ‘fireside’ conversations: 17 – 24 March 2026
Trees for Cities Interview Dates:
- First stage in-person trustee panel: 27 April 2026
- Final stage coffee with CEO and current Chair on one of the following: 28, 29 April, 5, 6 May 2026
Chair of Trustees employer: Trees for Cities
Contact Detail:
Trees for Cities Recruiting Team
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 charity sector, especially those involved with environmental causes. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about opportunities and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Trees for Cities thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! When discussing your past experiences, highlight how you've empowered others and navigated complex situations. This is key for a role like Chair of Trustees where collaboration is crucial.
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Trustees
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the charity's mission. Dive into Trees for Cities' work and values so you can tailor your application to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you in your application. Share your passion for environmental and social justice, and how your unique experiences have shaped your leadership style.
Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your Board-level experience and any relevant skills that make you a great fit for the Chair role. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trees for Cities
✨Know Your Impact
Before the interview, dive deep into Trees for Cities' mission and recent projects. Understand how they empower communities through tree planting and care. Being able to discuss specific initiatives will show your genuine interest and alignment with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Chair of Trustees, it's crucial to articulate your leadership approach. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to build consensus and manage diverse perspectives. Think about how you can empower others and foster a supportive Board culture.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Brush up on strategic governance and the challenges facing urban greening initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you would guide the Board in navigating complexities and driving impact, especially in relation to the new five-year strategy.
✨Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
Trees for Cities values diversity, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this aspect. Reflect on your experiences and how they can help shape a Board that truly represents the communities served. This will demonstrate your commitment to social justice and equity.
