At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Melksham Link Programme and engage with local stakeholders.
- Company: Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, dedicated to community and environmental benefits.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a real impact and enhance local biodiversity.
- Other info: Hybrid role with a focus on community engagement and governance.
- Why this job: Shape the future of your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience and strong communication skills required.
The Melksham Link programme is one of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust's key initiatives, linking to the K&A canal at Semington, bringing significant economic and wellbeing benefits to local communities, and enhancing biodiversity with a new blue‑green corridor.
The Trust is at a significant point of development in its history, with four programmes now with a vision and being published. Public support and, most importantly, the support of the local councils is growing rapidly. Social media following has tripled over the last three years, and with around 40,000 volunteer hours across our five branches, practical regeneration is gathering pace.
What are we looking for? We anticipate that candidates will have strategic and leadership skills and enjoy communicating with stakeholders. This is a senior, outward‑facing role requiring leadership, credibility, and the ability to balance strategic direction with stakeholder engagement. The successful candidate should live within easy reach of Melksham, Wiltshire.
Responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic oversight as the programme progresses toward finalising the planning application
- Working with the board and CEO to develop the post‑planning delivery structure, phasing and including building and shaping the future team
- Acting as an advocate for the project, engaging effectively with local authorities, town councils, and wider stakeholders
- Supporting strong governance and decision‑making as a member of the WBCT Board of Directors
What will you be doing? The Chair of the Melksham Link Programme provides strategic leadership to support the project through its final stages toward planning submission and beyond. Working closely with a highly capable team and project manager, the Chair ensures alignment of vision, governance, and delivery.
Chair - Melksham Link Programme WBCT - Volunteer employer: Wilts & Berks Canal Trust
The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead impactful community initiatives while enhancing local biodiversity and wellbeing. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and strategic engagement, the Trust fosters a supportive work culture that values volunteer contributions and encourages personal growth. Located in Melksham, Wiltshire, this role allows you to make a meaningful difference in the community while working alongside passionate individuals dedicated to environmental regeneration.
Contact Details:
Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair - Melksham Link Programme WBCT - Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to local councils, community groups, and stakeholders involved in the Melksham Link programme. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights that might not be on the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the project! When you get the chance to chat with potential collaborators or during interviews, share why the Melksham Link programme excites you. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss strategic leadership! Brush up on your experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to balance direction with stakeholder engagement.
✨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 directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair - Melksham Link Programme WBCT - Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the Melksham Link programme shine through. We want to see how much you care about community development and biodiversity, so share your personal connection to these causes!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any strategic or leadership roles you've held in the past. We’re looking for someone who can balance direction with stakeholder engagement, so give us examples of how you've done this before.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Chair role. We appreciate when candidates take the extra step to connect their background to our mission.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team at the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wilts & Berks Canal Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Melksham Link programme inside out. Familiarise yourself with its goals, the benefits it brings to the community, and how it aligns with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust's vision. This will show your genuine interest and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your strategic and leadership experiences. Think about times when you've successfully engaged stakeholders or led a project. Be ready to discuss how you can balance strategic direction with effective communication, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the local community and its needs. Research recent developments in Melksham and surrounding areas, and be prepared to discuss how you would advocate for the project and engage with local authorities and councils.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the future direction of the Melksham Link programme, the challenges they foresee, and how you can contribute to overcoming them. This shows you're proactive and genuinely invested in the success of the initiative.
