Chair of Trustees

Chair of Trustees

Posted for Lambourne End Outdoor Centre

Posted by Volunteer Essex

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Chair of Trustees Vacancy

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in your community?

Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as the Chair of Trustees for our charitable organisation. This is a unique opportunity to guide our mission, shape our strategy, and inspire positive change. 

About us

Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning invests in people and their potential. Established in 2004 and nicknamed the “54-acre classroom”, our work uses a unique combination of adventurous and environmental activities, a working farm and horticulture gardens to reconnect people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities with nature through outdoor learning.

Our mission is “to support people to overcome obstacles in life through nurturing them in nature, encouraging them in play and curiosity, challenging them in risk and adventure, and engaging them in outdoor learning.  Cultivating connections to the world around them, and inspiring positive lasting change.” 

The Centre is located in south west Essex and works with over 18,000 young people each year on a wide range of programmes that improve health and wellbeing and foster personal development, using our unique blend activities.  We do this by using the activities to generate a wide range of tailored programmes designed to encourage team building, problem solving and communication skills, as well as build confidence, enthuse and motivate, and raise aspirations.

Over the past ten years, the Centre has grown significantly its revenue, it’s profitability and its influence, such that it is now in a strong position and faces huge demand for its services.

The Role

As the Chair of Trustees, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring effective governance and strategic oversight. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive, you will help steer the organisation toward its goals while upholding our values and ensuring accountability.  The role has become vacant due to the retirement of the current Chair.

 Key Responsibilities

·       Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

·       Chair board meetings effectively, ensuring productive discussions and sound decision-making.

·       Work with the Chief Executive Officer to set and review strategic priorities and objectives.

·       Act as an ambassador for the organisation, representing its interests to stakeholders and communities.

·       Support the recruitment and development of a diverse and skilled Board of Trustees.

·       Oversee compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.

·       Ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable and aligned with its mission.

What skills do I need?

We are seeking a dedicated and inspiring leader who shares our passion for creating a better future. The ideal candidate will bring:

·       Experience in governance or leadership roles, ideally within non-profit, public, or corporate sectors.

·       Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with trustees, staff, and external stakeholders.

·       Strategic thinking and the ability to navigate complex challenges.

·       A good understanding of charity governance and relevant legislation (or a willingness to develop this knowledge).

·       A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of leadership.

Closing date for application's 31st August 2025