Non-executive Chair of the Board of Trustees

York Archaeological Trust for Research and Excavation Limited, an educational and research charity, is currently looking for a new non-executive chair of the board of trustees at an exciting period of development.

This appointment comes at an exciting and significant time for York Archaeology; we have recently launched a new strategy, including some important ambitions and objectives that will move the organisation forward significantly in its capacity to deliver meaningful public benefit through archaeology and heritage. We are also seeking to become a more inclusive organisation, and to further build the sustainability of the organisation, both financially and environmentally. This is a challenging agenda, and one which will require a Chair who is able to work sensitively and collaboratively with the Exec Team and the organisation as a whole, while providing rigorous challenge and maintaining a clear sense of direction. Key attributes will be the ability to establish trusted relationships, to communicate well and to oversee a complex organisation which is in the middle of a period of significant evolution and transition.

Ultimately, we are looking for someone who will do their best for the organisation.

You will have:

• Experience of being a trustee in a not-for-profit or charity sector organisation

• An understanding of governance, especially in the charitable sector

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the capacity to foster an effective relationship with the Exec Team, and the emotional maturity and resilience to provide an appropriate balance between support, and constructive scrutiny and challenge

• An orientation towards a collaborative leadership style, and an appreciation of the importance of fostering conditions in which staff at all levels can flourish

• An empathy with and an interest in archaeology and heritage; specialist knowledge in this sector is not necessary

• An appreciation of the financial context within which a charity such as York Archaeology operates, including an awareness of the importance of fundraising

• Some business acumen, with some exposure to senior-level financial leadership

• A commitment to the values associated with effective public engagement in the charitable sector, and to diversity, equality and sustainability.

It is anticipated that the duties of the Chair are likely to take around four days per month, in normal circumstances. The usual appointment period is for up to two terms, each of three years.

The role is unpaid, save for expenses. The Board meets at least 5 times annually.

The Chair will need ready access to York, as the headquarters of the organisation.