Chair of Trustees - Volunteer

The role of the Chair is to provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees, ensuring it fulfils its responsibilities for governance and strategic direction.

• Demonstrate inclusive and empathetic leadership, empowering others to contribute their expertise and foster a culture of respect and shared purpose.
• Prioritise the long‑term interests of the Charity and its mission when making strategic and governance decisions.
• Remain committed to the organisation and prepared to dedicate the time and effort required to carry out Chair and trustee responsibilities.
• Exercise independent judgement, ensuring decisions are made objectively and free from undue influence.
• Listen actively, communicate with clarity and empathy, and foster an environment of trust and transparency.

• Prior experience of committee/trustee work.
• Experience in organisational growth and development.
• Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation.
• A wider involvement with the voluntary sector.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, the Chair has a number of tasks specific to their role.

• Lead the Board in ensuring Sport in Mind complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and other relevant legislation /regulations.
• Ensure the Board fulfils its duties to maintain sound financial oversight, risk management, and safeguarding practices.
• Promote high standards of governance, encouraging a culture of openness, debate, and collective responsibility.

• Work with the Chief Executive and Trustees to set and review the Charity’s strategy, ensuring alignment with its mission and values.
• Oversee progress against strategic goals, particularly as it expands its programmes, partnerships, and geographic reach.
• Anticipate and respond to challenges and opportunities that come with organisational growth.

• Chair Board and general meetings effectively, ensuring all voices are heard and decisions are made in the Charity’s best interests.
• Monitor decisions taken at board meetings and ensure actions are implemented.
• Lead the recruitment of new Trustees to meet future governance needs.
• Work with the Board’s admin support to plan the annual cycle of board meetings, set agendas and produce minutes in a timely manner.

• Provide support, guidance, and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive.
• Act as a sounding board on strategic, operational, and reputational matters.
• Appraise the performance of the Chief Executive.
• Act as final stage adjudicator for disciplinary and grievance procedures if required.

• Represent Sport in Mind at key events, with partners, funders, and the media when appropriate, and act as spokesperson when necessary.
• Champion the Charity’s mission to stakeholders and the public.
• Support income generation by cultivating relationships with major donors, funders, and partners.