The Organisation

Our client is a successful multi-site food retailer, established 13 years ago, with over 180 stores nationwide and more than 800 employees. The business has grown rapidly through an ambitious store opening programme, strong marketing, and investment in a new warehouse and distribution centre. To secure its long-term independence and preserve its legacy, the company will transition to employee ownership in late 2025 via an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

The Role

Our client is seeking an Independent Trustee Chair to join the Employee Ownership Trust Board. The Chair will be responsible for protecting the interests of employee beneficiaries while guiding the establishment of the new Trust Board. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the governance and culture of an employee-owned business at a pivotal point in its journey. The role will involve approximately four meetings per year, alongside preparation and engagement with the Executive Team.

Candidate Specification

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Strong business acumen and board-level experience, ideally within the retail sector.

• A track record of chairing meetings and holding boards to account.

• Experience of succession planning and, ideally, knowledge of the employee-owned sector.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to listen, challenge constructively, and build consensus.

• A genuine commitment to the organisation’s values, as well as an understanding of trustee responsibilities and good governance.

This is a three-year term (with a one-year review) and offers a remuneration of £12–18k depending on experience.