Yuli is a leader with Himpunan Wanita Disabilitas Indonesia (HWDI, Indonesian Women with disability Association). Yuli says that that women with disabilities often face gender-based violence and many don’t have any idea on how to report the assault. The Indonesian Women in Leadership Project aims to support national and community civil society organisations to promote gender equality. Oxfam acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). (credit: M. Nugie and Andito Wasi/Oxfam)
We are delighted you are considering the role of Chair of Oxfam GB. We hope this information pack gives you a flavour of the work carried out by Oxfam and how our Chair oversees this.
Oxfam is a global community of people who believe in a kinder, and radically better world, where everyone has the power to thrive not just survive. We believe we can overcome poverty by fighting the injustices and inequalities that fuel it. Oxfam GB occupies a unique place in British life; established in 1942, we opened our first charity shop in 1947.
Oxfam GB is a member of the international confederation Oxfam, working together in 77 countries around the world. Oxfam GB is one of the 22 affiliates that make up the Oxfam confederation. We work together to overcome the injustice of poverty. As a confederation, we work together with more than 2,300 partner organisations, as well as allies and communities.
Oxfam continues to deliver what we call the Triple Mandate: This means responding to emergencies, supporting communities towards sustainable development and working to address the root causes of poverty and injustice so that fewer people face inequality in the future. We believe these three areas work together to create lasting change.
Our annual report for 2024/5 highlights some of the impact that Oxfam GB and partners had including:
- 21 million people supported to fight poverty and build a radically better world
- 05 million people reached through our humanitarian response
- Of this 51% are women and girls
Joining at a defining moment – Oxfam GB is entering a pivotal new phase. The next Chair will join at a time of significant global uncertainty, marked by rising inequality, aid reductions, and increasing political polarisation, alongside organisational renewal following a period of substantial change. This is an opportunity to help shape Oxfam GB’s next chapter: strengthening trust, deepening impact, and positioning the organisation to meet rapidly evolving global challenges.
Racial justice at the heart of leadership – A deep and personal commitment to racial justice is essential. The Chair will champion anti-racist practice and ensure equity and inclusion are embedded in governance, decision-making, culture, and partnerships. Racial justice is not a standalone priority, it must inform how Oxfam GB works, who holds power, and how change is delivered alongside partners and communities worldwide.
Leading within a global confederation – Oxfam GB operates as part of a complex international confederation. Decisions and actions taken within Oxfam GB have implications far beyond the UK, influencing relationships, reputation, and effectiveness across the global network. The Chair must bring an understanding of complex systems and collaborative governance, appreciating the interplay between national autonomy and collective responsibility within a shared global mission.
Feminist leadership – The role requires leadership grounded in feminist principles — collaboration, shared power, accountability, and inclusion.
The Chair will model values-based leadership that strengthens participation, supports diverse voices, and ensures governance reflects the principles Oxfam promotes globally.
Keeping people safe – We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for everyone. Safeguarding doesn’t operate on its own. Oxfam puts women, girls, and safe feminist programming at the heart of all we do. Safeguarding principles are interlinked with Oxfam’s feminist principles and the Oxfam GB values.
Cohesion after change – Following a period of transformation, there is a significant opportunity to foster cohesion, confidence, and clarity of purpose across Oxfam GB. The Chair will help unite stakeholders around a shared direction, supporting the Board and executive leadership to build stability while enabling innovation and renewal.
Fresh thinking, energy and ideas – In an increasingly contested environment for international development, the organisation needs a Chair who brings intellectual curiosity, fresh thinking, and the energy to engage externally. The successful candidate will help Oxfam GB navigate scrutiny, influence debate, and articulate the continuing relevance of humanitarian and development work in a changing world.
Stewardship for the future: Above all, the Chair will safeguard Oxfam GB’s mission and values while helping the organisation adapt for the future, ensuring it remains bold, principled, and effective in tackling poverty and injustice worldwide.
Oxfam is a partner to communities around the world tackling poverty, recognising that it can occur anywhere, to anyone. We believe that when people come together, change comes about. From our shops popularising the idea of Fair Trade, to world leaders committing to meaningful climate action, there is progress. Hard earned, and hard won, but always driven by the radical belief that acting together is more powerful than standing apart.
We hope that the information in this pack encourages you to apply. We look forward to meeting with you.
Annie and Nana
Co-Chairs