Overview
Lead a future without limits. Are you ready to shape the next chapter for an organisation that transforms lives? We believe disability should never define what a young person can achieve, and we create spaces where individuality thrives, friendships flourish, and every moment matters. As we embark on a landmark project to build a purpose-designed facility that will double our capacity and set the standard for inclusive care, we are seeking an exceptional Chair to help us turn ambition into reality.
Time Commitment: Approx. 2-3 days per month
Location: Henley-on-Thames (Board meetings and events)
Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)
About The Organisation
The charity is all about possibilities. We truly believe that disability should never define what a young person can accomplish, and we are dedicated to creating welcoming spaces where independence, friendship, and happiness can thrive. Our work is life-changing—providing more than just care, but fostering a sense of belonging, confidence, and joy. We are strongly connected to our community, trusted by families, and supported by generous donors and partners.
Why This Role Matters
Becoming Chair means leading an organisation that dares to push boundaries and embrace possibility. You will:
* Drive a landmark capital project: Oversee the delivery of a new, state-of-the-art facility that will transform lives and expand our reach.
* Champion a unique vision: Advocate for a world where disability never limits opportunity, amplifying the charity's voice locally and regionally.
* Strengthen community ties: Build on deep local roots to inspire partnerships, open doors, and create new opportunities for growth.
* Shape strategic direction: Ensure financial sustainability, robust governance, and a culture grounded in openness, respect, and collaboration.
* Be a visible leader: Represent the charity externally, energise trustees, and engage major donors to secure long-term success.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Skills And Experience
* Previous Chair or Vice-Chair experience, with strong understanding of charity governance and Charity Commission guidance.
* Strategic thinker with sound judgement and integrity.
* Proven ability to build relationships with external stakeholders and represent an organisation publicly.
* Experience with fundraising and major donor engagement; comfortable making the ask.
* Desirable: involvement in capital projects or property development.
Personal Attributes
* Energetic and dynamic; able to motivate and inspire.
* Collegiate, approachable, and empathetic.
* Confident communicator who can hold an audience and speak without heavy scripting.
* Practical and measured - focused on substance over bureaucracy.
* Committed to diversity, inclusion, and ethical leadership.
Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold the charity's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, a Q&A webinar will replace individual informal calls with the outgoing Chair. Candidates can submit questions in advance for addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Monday 16th February 2026 to receive a link.
Application Deadline: 5pm Friday 27th February 2026
First Interviews: w/c 16th March 2026
Final Interviews: w/c 23rd March 2026
How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to the charity on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to seniorappointments@charitypeople.co.uk and request a candidate pack in the first instance.
For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala on 07563 030595 or seniorappointments@charitypeople.co.uk
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
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