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- Tasks: Lead a board to empower women and protect families from abuse.
- Company: What Happens Next, a non-profit focused on safety and support.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with expenses reimbursed and impactful community work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of women and children.
- Qualifications: Trustee experience, strong leadership, and commitment to equity.
- Other info: Flexible time commitment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
What Happens Next is an organisation dedicated to empowering women to navigate post-separation abuse and protect mothers and children from ongoing harm. We are seeking an inclusive, strategic and committed Chair of Trustees to lead our board, strengthen our governance, and support our mission. You do not need previous Chair experience — just trustee experience, strong leadership qualities and a deep commitment to safety, equity and trauma-informed practice.
Key qualities we’re looking for:
- Experience as a trustee (Chair experience not required)
- Strategic thinking and a clear sense of purpose
- Inclusive leadership and the ability to foster collaboration
- Strong communication and active listening skills
- Confidence in supporting and constructively challenging leadership
- Advocacy: willingness to champion What Happens Next publicly
- Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
Time commitment:
- 3 board meetings per year (currently remote)
- Monthly scheduled meeting with the founders
- Occasional ad hoc issues requiring timely response
- Annual half-day strategy session
Term: 3 years, renewable once (maximum 6 years). This is a voluntary role with reasonable expenses reimbursed.
How to Apply:
Please send the following by 31 January 2025 at 22:00:
- A brief cover letter explaining your interest in the Chair role and how you meet the key skills and qualities (no more than 2 sides of A4).
- Your CV or a summary of relevant experience.
Send your application to: [contact information]. If you would like to discuss the role before applying, please contact Charlotte at [contact information]. Applications close: 13 February 2026.
What Happens Next is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Chair of trustees - Domestic Abuse non-profit organisation in Edinburgh employer: What Happens Next
Contact Detail:
What Happens Next Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of trustees - Domestic Abuse non-profit organisation in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the non-profit sector, especially those involved with domestic abuse organisations. A personal introduction can make all the difference when you're aiming for a role like Chair of Trustees.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with the founders or board members, share your commitment to safety, equity, and trauma-informed practice. Let them see your genuine interest in their mission and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those meetings! Brush up on your strategic thinking skills and be ready to discuss how you can foster collaboration within the board. Think about how your previous trustee experience can bring value to their governance.
✨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 take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of trustees - Domestic Abuse non-profit organisation in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Keep it concise and focus on why you're passionate about the Chair role. Highlight how your experience aligns with our mission and the key qualities we’re looking for.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the role. We want to see your trustee experience and any leadership roles you've held, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Be Authentic: We value authenticity, so let your personality come through in your application. Share your genuine commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and how you can contribute to fostering collaboration within our board.
Apply Through Our Website: To make things easier for us and you, please submit your application through our website. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at What Happens Next
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research What Happens Next. Understand their mission, values, and the specific challenges they face in supporting women navigating post-separation abuse. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Trustee Experience
Even if you haven't held a Chair position before, highlight your relevant trustee experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've contributed to governance, strategic planning, or advocacy in previous roles. This will show that you have the skills needed to lead and support the board effectively.
✨Emphasise Inclusive Leadership
As the Chair of Trustees, fostering collaboration is key. Prepare to discuss your approach to inclusive leadership and how you’ve successfully brought diverse voices together in past experiences. Share examples that illustrate your ability to listen actively and engage with different perspectives.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the organisation's future, board dynamics, and how you can contribute to their mission. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if this role aligns with your values and goals.
