Volunteer Chair (from December 2023)

What will you be doing?

As Chair you will be leading The Richmond Society which has been actively campaigning in support of the natural and built environment and special character of Richmond since 1957.  We have a Manifesto that sets out the principles that guide our work. We are a community-based charity with over 1,100 members plus additional social media supporters.  With no paid staff or offices, all our work is done by volunteers. The charity is run by the board of trustees (called the Executive Committee “EC”).  Currently there are nine trustees - who specialise in campaign issues (e.g. buildings, landscaping and riverside, town centre, licensing etc.), functional support (e.g. treasurer, secretary etc.,) a trustee leading on our events programme and the chair. We are currently recruiting for a trustee to lead on communications and campaigning.  The current chair is standing down at the AGM in December after 5 years in the role, In summary, the role of the chair is:

Leading the EC and the Society keeping the focus on fulfilling the Society’s objectives consistent with good governance. Ensuring effective relationships between:

Members of the EC, and between the EC, other volunteers and the members of the Society the Society and external stakeholders (such as London Borough of Richmond upon Thames) and the local community

Acting as a spokesperson and ambassador for the Society as appropriate.

Full details are set out in the Job Description

What are we looking for?

The Chair will have the experience, background and personal qualities to be able to demonstrate:

Strong and visible passion and commitment to the Society and its objectives and a willingness to lead it. A presence that commands respect and the ability to chair EC and public meetings effectively and with good humour Strong leadership skills, the ability to manage and motivate jEC members and other volunteers, and bring people together  Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation  Tact, diplomacy, good communications and influencing skills. Networking capabilities for the benefit of the Society. Sufficient time to be able to fulfil the role,

You do not necessarily need to have specialist knowledge and experience of the Society’s campaign issues or support functions. It would be helpful but not essential that you have previous experience of charity governance as training can be arranged.

What difference will you make?

The Richmond Society has been campaigning in support of the natural and built environment and special character of Richmond since 1957. The challenge is far from over.  As Chair you'll be the latest in a line of exceptional people providing leadership to our EC, a team of passionate individuals, and guide the strategic direction of the Society.  Above all, as Chair, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are a key part in preserving and enhancing the special character of Richmond for the benefit of all to enjoy.