Chair of the Board
Organisation: Wessex Archaeology
Location: Salisbury / Hybrid
Time Commitment: Approximately 2–3 days per month
Wessex Archaeology is one of the UK’s largest and longstanding heritage organisations, dedicated to uncovering the past to help build a better world. We combine archaeological expertise with a strong social purpose, delivering world-class services and community engagement that enrich lives. As we continue to progress on a new strategic chapter, we are seeking an exceptional Chair of the Board to provide inspirational leadership and guide the organisation into its next phase of development.
This is a defining opportunity for an inclusive and strategic leader to help shape an organisation with both commercial strength and deep social purpose. As Chair, you will ensure high‑quality governance, nurture an effective and collaborative Board, and act as a trusted partner and critical friend to the Chief Executive. Your leadership will underpin our mission to deliver high‑impact archaeology, heritage services, and public benefit at scale.
As Chair, you will:
* Lead the Board in continually evolving the mission, vision, values, and long‑term strategy.
* Ensure the highest standards of governance, oversight, performance management, and accountability.
* Support and challenge the Chief Executive, fostering a constructive and open working relationship.
* Promote a positive culture across the organisation based on collaboration, inclusion, and purpose.
* Represent Wessex Archaeology externally as an ambassador and spokesperson when required.
What We’re Looking For:
We welcome applications from individuals with:
* Prior experience chairing a board, leading collective decision‑making and a solid appreciation of governance and decision-making.
* Strong people skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build trusted, effective relationships and guide trustees and executives.
* Senior leadership experience in medium–large organisations, ideally with understanding of commercial environments.
* Confidence in financial oversight and interpreting organisational performance.
* A strategic, agile mindset and the ability to navigate complexity with clarity and purpose.
* A deep interest in archaeology, heritage, culture, or history and a commitment to Wessex’s sustainability goals.
This is an unremunerated, non‑executive appointment requiring 2–3 days per month, including Board meetings, committee meetings, strategy days, site visits, and regular dialogue with the Chief Executive and Executive team.
Wessex Archaeology is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and warmly encourages applicants from all backgrounds.
To find out more about this exciting role, please click apply on website.
If you would like a confidential discussion, please contact our recruitment advisers at GatenbySanderson:
- Carmel Bell, Research Lead – carmel.bell@gatenbysanderson.com
- Rebekah Herz‑Bauman, Partner – rebekah.herz-bauman@gatenbysanderson.com
Closing date: Monday 13th April