At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Board and support the CEO in shaping the organisation's strategic direction.
- Company: YMCA DownsLink Group, a leading charity for children and young people.
- Benefits: Make a lasting impact on young lives and be part of a respected organisation.
- Other info: Unpaid role with expenses reimbursed; commitment of one day per month.
- Why this job: Join us to champion inclusivity and drive meaningful change for youth in Sussex and Surrey.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chair or senior leader with a strategic mindset.
YMCA DownsLink Group (YMCA DLG) is the leading charity supporting children and young people across Sussex and Surrey through safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice. Following a significant period of organisational stabilisation and transformation, we are now entering an ambitious new phase focused on growth, influence and deepening our impact.
Our purpose - every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.
Our values - we do what’s right. We work with heart. We build real connection.
About the role
The Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding the Board and supporting the CEO, ensuring that governance is strong and aligned with the organisation’s values, strategic goals and founding Christian principles. As a leader, the Chair shapes the culture, champions inclusivity and drives the strategic direction of the organisation. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people through a dynamic and highly respected organisation.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for a values-led and collaborative leader who is genuinely excited by the opportunity to chair an ambitious organisation at an important moment in its journey. With a bold new strategy, strong foundations and a talented executive team in place, this is a compelling opportunity to help shape what comes next for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey.
You will be an experienced Chair or senior board-level leader, bringing a progressive, strategic mindset and a strong track record of creating the conditions for high-quality dialogue and sound decision-making. You will strike the right balance between support and constructive challenge, applying emotional intelligence to cultivate a trusted and effective partnership with the CEO and executive team.
You will demonstrate an active Christian faith alongside a genuine passion for our purpose and values, aligning personal conviction with organisational mission.
Time commitment - approximately one day per month on average. This is an unpaid role; however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. The initial term of appointment is three years.
We are working with Peridot Partners, who are supporting us with the recruitment of this role. For further information/to arrange a confidential discussion, contact our advising consultant at Peridot Partners: Clare Chesworth 07904 158737. Closing date: 9am Tuesday 21 July.
Chair in Brighton employer: YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP
YMCA Downslink Group is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its staff and the communities it serves. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will find ample opportunities for growth within a supportive and inclusive work culture. Working across beautiful East Sussex, you'll enjoy a competitive salary and the satisfaction of making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in supported housing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair in Brighton
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
