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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 Southampton 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 Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the non-profit sector, especially those involved with domestic abuse organisations. They might have insights or even know someone on the board at What Happens Next.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those meetings! Brush up on your strategic thinking and communication skills. Think about how you can contribute to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the board.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the cause! When you get the chance to chat with the founders or board members, share your commitment to equity and trauma-informed practices. Let them see your dedication!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at What Happens Next.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of trustees - Domestic Abuse non-profit organisation in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you're interested in the Chair role and how your experience aligns with the key skills we're looking for. Keep it concise, no more than 2 sides of A4, and let your passion for our mission come through.
Showcase Your Relevant Experience: When you send us your CV or a summary of your relevant experience, highlight your trustee roles and any leadership positions you've held. We want to see how your background can contribute to our board and support our mission effectively.
Be Authentic and Personal: We love hearing your personal story! Don’t hesitate to share what drives you to support women navigating post-separation abuse. Authenticity goes a long way in making your application stand out, so let us know what makes you tick.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website by the deadline. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of all applications and ensures you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at What Happens Next
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to really understand What Happens Next. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Trustee Experience
Even though previous Chair experience isn't required, be ready to discuss your trustee experience in detail. Highlight specific examples where you've demonstrated strategic thinking, collaboration, and advocacy. This will illustrate your capability to lead and support the board effectively.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Communication Skills
Given the importance of inclusive leadership for this role, prepare to discuss how you've fostered collaboration in past roles. Share examples that showcase your strong communication and active listening skills, as these are crucial for a Chair of Trustees.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the organisation's future plans, challenges they face, and how you can contribute. This demonstrates your commitment and strategic mindset, making you stand out as a candidate.
