We’re at an exciting time in our organisation’s development having recently launched a new strategy for 2030 for The Wildlife Trusts. We have agreed some challenging ambitions and set some incredible transformations to achieve this new strategy and secure nature’s recovery. This is not least around how we can become a more inclusive organisation and reach out and support more people from all backgrounds to experience nature but also how we can become an even stronger federation in the ways we work together and capitalise on our structures.

We therefore need a forward thinking and inclusive Chair to help lead us on our journey. This is a dual role – representing, supporting and enabling The Wildlife Trusts as a federation but also serving directly as Chair of the central charity, In the latter role, the Chair will directly provide leadership to the trustee board of RSWT in ensuring it fulfils its duties and responsibilities for effective governance.

The Chair will be able to combine personal humility with an urgency to achieve the mission of The Wildlife Trusts and the drive to invest in ongoing organisational development. They will be able to demonstrate servant leadership in relation to The Wildlife Trusts, being able to unite and inspire our movement behind our collective vision.

Embodying the culture of The Wildlife Trusts and building trust within the movement, the Chair will work with the CEO to advance and grow the reputation of The Wildlife Trusts as an organisation of excellence that can inspire collective leadership throughout its movement and beyond, in the wider world.

This can be a demanding, yet rewarding role, suited to someone who is able to navigate through complex relationships and communicate well at all levels. Being able to motivate and bring people on a journey is a must.

Experience of conservation is not essential. More important is an understanding of governance and complex organisations, an ability to see the big strategic picture and the ability to harness the skills of talented board members. The role requires a time commitment - approximately equating to 2-3 days per month on average for a five year term. The role is a voluntary position; it is not remunerated although expenses are reimbursed.

The Role

The Chair of The Wildlife Trusts is a leader for both The Wildlife Trusts and for RSWT

• To lead the trustee board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation by ensuring that the organisation acts in accordance with its constitution and by managing its activities. 
• To work in partnership with the chief executive helping them to achieve the mission of The Wildlife Trusts, and with the trustee board ensure appropriate line management of the CEO 
• To optimise the relationship between the board and staff/volunteers; and RSWT and the individual Wildlife Trusts. 
• To attend all Board meetings plus RSWT events such as Open Days, conferences and Leaders Days where appropriate.

Key priorities for Chair during tenure:

1. To drive forward becoming a truly inclusive and diverse organisation, supporting our internal development but also reaching out to new audiences
2. To increase our collective unity and internal development
3. Aid in implementation of 2030 Strategy