Charity Mentors Oxfordshire is looking for a new Chair to lead our lively and engaged Board of Trustees.

Who we are

Since 2013, Charity Mentors Oxfordshire has worked with over 200 charity leaders in Oxfordshire to support them in their strategic decision-making. Our mentors have senior leadership experience and offer their time pro bono. They work with charity leaders for a period of 4-6 months, giving them the space to stand back, analyse options and clarify future strategy for their organizations. These interventions help to bring about more focused and confident leadership, improved management and delivery of services for the people and communities their charity serves.

Our Board currently consists of  7 Trustees, including the Chair and is well supported by an Executive Director who manages mentoring provision and promotes the service to charities in the county.

Our current Chair will be retiring in January 2025 after 6 years. We are recruiting now to ensure a smooth transition and seamless handover.

Key Responsibilities

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will be responsible for:

  • Chairing Trustee meetings which take place four times a year  (January, April, July and October)

  • Supporting and supervising the Executive Director, either on Zoom or face to face meetings

  • Acting as a channel of communication between the Board and the Executive Director

  • Leading on the development of the Board

  • Ensuring the annual accounts and reports are completed in advance of  the Charity Commission deadline and that the charity is compliant with governance standards

  • Carrying out an annual performance review of the Executive Director

  • Ensuring the requirements of Charity Mentor’s Oxfordshire’s annual calendar are delivered

  • Representing Charity Mentors Oxfordshire in the county where appropriate (e.g.,  meetings and events)

Essential Requirements

  • Leadership experience in the public, private or third sector

  • Demonstrated track record in strategic-thinking and decision-making

  • Previous experience of working as part of a Board of Trustees

  • Commitment to and understanding of strong charity governance and effectiveness

  • Passion and commitment for the work of Charity Mentors Oxfordshire

  • Excellent communication skills

  • Based in Oxfordshire

This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses for meetings and events can be reimbursed.

Our Commitment

Charity Mentors Oxfordshire is dedicated to promoting Equity, Diversity and Inclusion across our organization. We believe that a diverse and inclusive board with varied perspectives and experiences enhances our ability to lead and serve our community. We value and celebrate difference and work to foster a culture of equity and respect in all that we do. Individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter outlining both your experience and interest in Charity Mentors Oxfordshire to info@charitymentors.co.uk.

We will be accepting applications from 1st April – 1st June 2024. Shortlisted applicants will be notified by the end of June and interviews will take place in July. The new Chair will join our October board meeting with the outgoing Chair. The handover period will last from October to January 2025.

If you would like to have an informal discussion about the role before making an application, please contact our current Board Chair, Mrs Annette Mountford MBE on annettemountford@hotmail.com.

We are looking forward to hearing from you!