The Organisation

Groundwork was established in 1982 as a radical experiment to bring together communities, business and government in a joint effort to improve the quality of life and promote sustainable development in places that had become run-down and neglected.

Over the last four decades we’ve grown to become a federation of 15 independent charities working collaboratively to a common strategy led by our Federation Board. Along the way we’ve learned what works to help community organisations become more resilient, to help young people face the future with confidence and to help those who are vulnerable or isolated improve their prospects and networks.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced, engaged and committed Chair to lead our knowledgeable, diverse and supportive Federation Board, to ensure the Groundwork whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

The role of Groundwork Federation Chair involves:

• representing the whole of Groundwork to external partners and funders
• championing and steering federation-wide strategies, plans and processes
• leading a board that is legally responsible for the activities and assets of Groundwork UK
• managing a board comprising members nominated by Groundwork Trusts and members co-opted for their skills and experience
• ensuring that the federation functions and services by Groundwork UK align with the needs and aspirations of Groundwork Trusts.

The Individual

This is a key role suitable for a high calibre candidate who may already have board level experience. The combination of leading and supporting demands a high level of emotional intelligence and the ability to promote consensus and collaboration. The Federation Chair is seen by all parts of Groundwork – and by external stakeholders – as representing the Groundwork mission, brand and values.

Potential candidates should also possess some or all of the following:

• a clear passion for the work Groundwork delivers and a demonstrable commitment to the organisation’s mission and values
• a desire and ability to understand the realities of local delivery in disadvantaged communities
• an understanding of the policy landscape and marketplaces within which Groundwork operates
• an ability to build and develop networks in the business, policy or political spheres to support Groundwork’s mission
• a collaborative, consensual approach and an ability both to support and to challenge executives across Groundwork to deliver improvements in performance and impact
• experience of chairing high level meetings, setting strategic direction and monitoring Board performance

Further Information

For comprehensive information about Groundwork, and more detail about the role, please download the Candidate Information Pack.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity, please submit an application with the following:

• An up to date CV with details of two referees (we will not contact them without your prior consent)
• A supporting statement which outlines your motivations for applying and how you meet the criteria for the role

Please send all applications to applications@trustees-unlimited.co.uk with your full name and 'GROUNDWORK' in the subject line.

For an informal discussion, please contact Melissa Baxter on 07789 985229 / melissa.baxter@russam.co.uk.

Closing date for applications: Monday 18th March 2024
Interviews with Groundwork: Weeks commencing 8th or 15th April 2024 (dates TBC)