Working Group Lead or Co-Lead VOLUNTEER POSITION

In 2026, York Climate Commission will be restructuring itself around doughnut economics. We are adding in five new core working groups that all other sub working groups will sit under. We are currently looking for a Working Group Lead or Co-Lead for all five groups as noted below.

Application end date: Midday 30th January 2026

Working Groups: Communications, Governance, Ecology, Infrastructure and People

Organisation: York Climate Commission

Location: York (hybrid meetings – some in person, some online)

Commitment: Approximately 2–6 hours per month (hours are a guideline and flexible to suit your availability and that of your working group)

About York Climate Commission: The York Climate Commission is an independent, city-wide partnership bringing together people from the public, private, community and academic sectors to support, guide and accelerate climate action. Our working groups focus on key areas where York can lead in creating a net-zero, climate-resilient future and are aligned to the principles of doughnut economics which will largely shape our strategy moving forwards.

About the Role: We are seeking five volunteer Working Group Leads or Co-Leads to help shape and drive the work of our new working groups.

• Communications: building awareness and engagement in our city and beyond
• Governance: helping to resource and organise our organisation as we move into becoming a charity whilst also keeping an eye on our impact
• Ecology: All initiatives benefiting the natural world
• Infrastructure: Activities which benefit society such as housing, energy, water, transport
• People: Activities which support our citizens’ basic needs – health, education, social equality, food

These groups bring together passionate individuals and organisations to share expertise, identify opportunities, and collaborate on initiatives that move York towards its climate goals. As a Lead or Co-Lead, you will provide energy, coordination and strategic focus to your group – ensuring meetings are purposeful, inclusive and outcome-focused, and that the group’s work connects with the wider Commission’s aims.

Please note that we expect each working group to identify up to three tangible projects it can take real action on in 2026. In order to maintain York Climate Commission’s political neutrality, Working Group Leads must not be politically active or representatives of a political party.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to steering group - contribute to strategic discussions at steering group level and report on progress made in working group
• Chair and Facilitate Meetings – plan agendas, guide discussions, and ensure all voices are heard.
• Set Direction – work with members to define the group’s priorities and action plan.
• Empower your working group - support and inspire your working group to work smart and prioritise energy and time on activities that will make the biggest progress to our commission’s goals and vision.
• Build Partnerships – encourage collaboration between individuals, organisations and sectors. Pay attention to inclusivity to ensure that all groups in York are represented in your working group activities.
• Drive Action – keep momentum between meetings, tracking progress on agreed initiatives.
• Connect and Report – share insights and updates with the York Climate Commission Steering Group and wider communities where appropriate.
• Champion Your Theme – act as an ambassador for your working group, making connections and representing the group at relevant events and networks.
• Monitor impact - it’s important that we know the contribution of our volunteers is creating change in a meaningful way.

What We’re Looking For:

• A passion for climate action and York’s net-zero journey.
• Knowledge, experience or strong interest in your chosen working group theme - as a volunteer organisation we need to have the right skills in the right roles.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Ability to bring people together from different backgrounds and sectors.
• Organised, with the ability to keep projects moving.
• Willingness to commit time regularly and reliably. We’re looking for a three-year commitment to ensure stability and continuity (although we also understand that life happens and things may change).

What You’ll Gain:

• An opportunity to play a visible leadership role in York’s climate action movement.
• The chance to influence real change in your area of expertise or interest.
• Connection to a passionate network of climate leaders, organisations, and decision-makers.
• Experience in collaborative leadership, facilitation, and strategic planning.

How to Apply: Please send a short statement (max 500 words) explaining your interest, relevant experience, and which group you’d like to lead/co-lead, to yorkclimatecommission@gmail.com by midday on Friday 30th January. Informal interviews will be held in February with the York Climate Commission Co-chairs. Intended date of appointment - by the AGM 18th March 2026.