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- Tasks: Lead the Board to shape Wessex Archaeology's mission and strategy.
- Company: Wessex Archaeology, a leading heritage organisation with a strong social purpose.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence heritage services and community engagement.
- Other info: Unremunerated role requiring 2-3 days per month, promoting equity and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in archaeology and heritage while fostering collaboration and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Experience in board leadership, governance, and a passion for heritage.
Organisation: Wessex Archaeology
Location: Salisbury / Hybrid
Time Commitment: Approximately 2–3 days per month
Wessex Archaeology is one of the UK’s largest and longstanding heritage organisations, dedicated to uncovering the past to help build a better world. We combine archaeological expertise with a strong social purpose, delivering world-class services and community engagement that enrich lives. As we continue to progress on a new strategic chapter, we are seeking an exceptional Chair of the Board to provide inspirational leadership and guide the organisation into its next phase of development.
This is a defining opportunity for an inclusive and strategic leader to help shape an organisation with both commercial strength and deep social purpose. As Chair, you will ensure high-quality governance, nurture an effective and collaborative Board, and act as a trusted partner and critical friend to the Chief Executive. Your leadership will underpin our mission to deliver high-impact archaeology, heritage services, and public benefit at scale.
As Chair, you will:
- Lead the Board in continually evolving the mission, vision, values, and long-term strategy.
- Ensure the highest standards of governance, oversight, performance management, and accountability.
- Support and challenge the Chief Executive, fostering a constructive and open working relationship.
- Promote a positive culture across the organisation based on collaboration, inclusion, and purpose.
- Represent Wessex Archaeology externally as an ambassador and spokesperson when required.
What We’re Looking For:
We welcome applications from individuals with:
- Prior experience chairing a board, leading collective decision-making and a solid appreciation of governance and decision-making.
- Strong people skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build trusted, effective relationships and guide trustees and executives.
- Senior leadership experience in medium–large organisations, ideally with understanding of commercial environments.
- Confidence in financial oversight and interpreting organisational performance.
- A strategic, agile mindset and the ability to navigate complexity with clarity and purpose.
- A deep interest in archaeology, heritage, culture, or history and a commitment to Wessex’s sustainability goals.
This is an unremunerated, non-executive appointment requiring 2–3 days per month, including Board meetings, committee meetings, strategy days, site visits, and regular dialogue with the Chief Executive and Executive team.
Wessex Archaeology is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and warmly encourages applicants from all backgrounds.
Closing date: Monday 13th April
Chair of the Board employer: Wessex Archaeology
Contact Detail:
Wessex Archaeology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Board
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the archaeology and heritage sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can introduce you to someone influential.
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared for interviews by researching Wessex Archaeology thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role and organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to foster collaboration and inclusivity during discussions. Share examples from your past experiences that highlight your strategic mindset and emotional intelligence.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Wessex Archaeology and contributing to their important work.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Board
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role of Chair of the Board and what Wessex Archaeology is all about. Dive into their mission and values so you can tailor your application to show how you fit in perfectly.
Be Personal and Authentic: We want to hear your unique voice! Share your experiences and insights that relate to the role. Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us why you’re passionate about archaeology and how your leadership style aligns with our goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Highlight your previous board experience and how you've successfully led teams or organisations. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to foster collaboration and navigate complex situations—this is key for a Chair!
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love detail, clarity is crucial. Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Avoid jargon where possible and get straight to the point—this will help us see your strengths quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wessex Archaeology
✨Know Your Governance Inside Out
As a potential Chair of the Board, it's crucial to have a solid grasp of governance principles. Brush up on Wessex Archaeology's current governance structure and any recent changes in their strategic direction. This will not only show your commitment but also help you articulate how you can enhance their governance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with fostering collaboration and inclusion. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a board or team through complex decisions, highlighting your emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since financial oversight is key for this role, be ready to talk about your experience with budget management and performance evaluation. Familiarise yourself with Wessex Archaeology’s financial reports if available, and be prepared to discuss how you would approach financial decision-making as Chair.
✨Express Your Passion for Heritage
Wessex Archaeology values a deep interest in archaeology and heritage. Be sure to convey your enthusiasm for these fields during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that reflect your commitment to cultural preservation and how you envision contributing to their mission.