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- Tasks: Lead the Board to drive impactful urban greening initiatives and empower communities.
- Company: Trees for Cities, a charity dedicated to enhancing urban environments through tree planting.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape environmental change and engage with diverse communities.
- Why this job: Be a pivotal leader in a movement for urban trees and social equity.
- Qualifications: Board-level experience and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
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 in London 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 in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to Trees for Cities. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational chats. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the charity’s mission and recent projects. Show us you’re passionate about urban greening and social justice. Bring your ideas to the table on how you can contribute to our five-year strategy – we love fresh perspectives!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision and how your experience aligns with our goals. We want to hear how you can lead with integrity and inspire others, so make sure you’ve got that nailed down before stepping into the interview room.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our mission to create leafy, liveable places. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Trustees in London
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 don’t be afraid to include personal anecdotes that highlight your journey.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a potential Chair of Trustees, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led teams or initiatives, especially in complex situations, to show us you can navigate challenges effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to access all the resources we have available to support your application process.
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 coaching style and how you've empowered others in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to foster a supportive Board culture.
✨Prepare for Diverse Perspectives
Expect discussions around governance and diverse viewpoints. Think about how you’ve navigated complex situations in the past and be ready to share strategies for building consensus among varied stakeholders. This will showcase your interpersonal skills and strategic vision.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity
Trees for Cities values diversity, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this goal. Share your thoughts on creating an inclusive environment and how your experiences can help reflect the communities they serve. This will resonate well with their organisational values.