Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Board to shape Wessex Archaeology's mission and strategy.
- Company: Wessex Archaeology, a leading heritage organisation in the UK.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence heritage services and community engagement.
- Other info: Unremunerated role with 2-3 days commitment per month.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on archaeology and heritage while guiding a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in board leadership and strong people skills required.
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.
To find out more about this exciting role, please click apply on website. If you would like a confidential discussion, please contact our recruitment advisers at GatenbySanderson.
Closing date: Monday 13th April
Chair of the Board in New Town employer: Wessex Archaeology
Contact Detail:
Wessex Archaeology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Board in New Town
✨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 insight that could help us land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Wessex Archaeology inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only impress them but also help us articulate how our experience aligns with their goals. Show them we’re genuinely passionate about their work!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating our leadership style and how we can foster collaboration and inclusion within the board. The more comfortable we are discussing our vision, the better we’ll shine in the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining Wessex Archaeology and committed to their mission. Let’s make sure we stand out from the crowd!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Board in New Town
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for archaeology and heritage shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at Wessex Archaeology, so don’t hold back on sharing your genuine interest!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to detail your previous board experience and leadership roles. We’re looking for someone who can guide us strategically, so showcase your skills in governance and decision-making clearly.
Be Authentic: We value authenticity, so be yourself in your application. Share your unique perspective and how you can contribute to fostering a positive culture within our organisation. We want to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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. Familiarise yourself with 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 practices.
✨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 decision-making processes. This will demonstrate your ability to guide the organisation effectively.
✨Connect with Their Mission
Wessex Archaeology is deeply rooted in heritage and social purpose. Make sure to express your passion for archaeology and how it ties into your vision for the organisation. Research their recent projects and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of delivering high-impact services.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation. Ask about their future challenges, the dynamics of the current board, and how they envision the Chair's role evolving. This shows your genuine interest and strategic thinking.