Volunteer Chair of the Trustee Board

What will you be doing?

About CPRE London CPRE is England’s leading countryside charity, comprising a National Office and 42 local CPREs, each operating as a distinct charity. At a national level, CPRE campaigns for a beautiful and thriving countryside that is valued, enjoyed and accessible to everyone. At a local level, the London branch looks to make London a greener and healthier city for all. In 2024, we aim to focus efforts into three main thrust areas:

Creating an M25 of trees around the capital Ten New Parks London Friends of Green Space Network and GoParks London

These are in addition to our core case work supporting local campaigners stand up to threats to local green spaces and the environmental and health and well-being benefits these bring. More details about CPRE’s work is in the supporting document. What will you be doing? The Chair of CPRE London’s Trustee Board plays a key role in leading, developing and delivering the work. Responsibilities

Ensure charity complies with its memorandum and articles, charity law, company law, in accordance with the Charity Commission’s good governance guidelines and any other relevant legislation or regulations Provide strategic leadership to the Trustee board and organisation by helping form projects, monitoring accountability and performance against targets Ensuring an effective relationship between Trustee board, staff / volunteers, and external stakeholders Be a spokesperson and figurehead, including representing charity at meetings with the public, local politicians, government officers, other stakeholders, and giving media interviews Line manager to Director, supervising and providing support Safeguard the charity's reputation and values Represent CPRE London at various national CPRE meetings Ensure there are adequate resources (financial and human) for CPRE London to fulfil its charitable responsibilities Plan and chair the annual Board Meetings Ensure policy and administrative systems are running smoothly with support from the Hon Secretary Monitor decisions taken at meetings and ensure they are effectively implemented

What are we looking for?

What are we looking for?

Experience leading meetings and/or previous Board experience (desirable) Ability to network and build effective relationships combined with strong judgement, resilience and decision-making Proven strategic thinking ability combined with the ability to process detail and get to the heart of an issue Proven track record in achieving project goals Excellent communication skills and ability to demonstrate tact and diplomacy A clear and informed understanding of how an effective fundraising strategy is built A willingness to demonstrate commitment to CPRE London, including its vision and mission, and an awareness of (or willingness to learn about) the issues concerned with safeguarding green spaces in London Managerial experience in overseeing staff members, including direct line management of the Director Experience and understanding of the responsibilities of charity trustees Previous NGO experience is a plus, but not essential.

We are looking for someone with the right mix of managerial/ leadership skills and a willingness to lead the organisation forward to achieve success in its strategy. This role is for a candidate interested in a range of issues around the natural environment and wants to be part of an organisation that campaigns for the sustainable use of land and other natural resources to protect and enhance the environment and quality of life in London. Some knowledge of or familiarity with London’s planning process would be helpful.

What difference will you make?

The successful candidate will work with the Director, staff and other trustees to ensure that the charity’s strategy is achieved and modified as necessary to embrace new ideas or changes in circumstances.   Commitment: Typically, 2-4 days a month with other trustees and staff in support of charity and its key objectives, either at office or remotely. There are 4 Board meetings a year at our London office, from 18.30, generally finishing by 20.30, plus an Away Day meeting in the Greater London area.