Role Title: Chair of the Board of Trustees
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Time Commitment: c. 3–4 days per month (including preparation time)
Term: Typically 3 years, renewable once
Role Purpose
The Chair will lead the Board of the City and Guilds Foundation dedicated to improving access to skills and employment. With an annual budget of £3–5m, the Foundation will make strategic grants, influence policy and practice, and collaborate with like-minded organisations, employers, and communities.
The Chair’s primary responsibility is to provide leadership, governance, and strategic direction, ensuring the Foundation delivers high-impact, evidence-driven outcomes and maintains the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and integrity. They will also be Chair, Council.
Annex 1 sets out more detail on the institutional framework of the City and Guilds Foundation
Key Responsibilities
Governance and Leadership
- Review governance arrangements to ensure fit for the future purpose of the Foundation.
- Lead and support the Board in fulfilling its governance responsibilities.
- Ensure the Foundation complies with legal, regulatory, and constitutional requirements.
- Promote a culture of impact, learning, inclusion, and accountability.
- Ensure effective Board processes, timely decision-making, and constructive challenge.
Strategic Direction and Oversight
- Guide the development and periodic review of the Foundation’s strategy, mission, and impact objectives.
- Ensure the organisation’s resources are directed toward high-quality grant making, influencing, and partnership activity.
- Maintain oversight of performance, risk, and financial stewardship, including investments.
External Engagement and Influence
- Act as an ambassador for the Foundation, enhancing its reputation and reach.
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with employers, funders, policymakers, delivery partners, and communities.
- Support the Foundation’s influencing work, ensuring it speaks with authority and credibility on skills, workforce development, and social mobility.
Supporting the Executive Leadership
- Establish a constructive and trusting relationship with the Chief Executive and senior team.
- Provide guidance, support, and challenge to the Chief Executive in delivering the Foundation’s strategy and operations.
- Lead in CEO appointment, appraisal, and remuneration discussions.
Board Development
- Ensure the Board has the right mix of skills, diversity, and lived experience.
- Lead the appointment, induction, and development of Trustees.
- Foster an inclusive culture in which all Trustees can contribute fully.