Volunteer Chair of Chiltern Foodbank Board of Trustees

What will you be doing?

Chiltern Foodbank is looking for a new Chair of the Board of Trustees to succeed Roy Abraham who is stepping back from this role due to ill health. We are looking for an energetic and capable person who understands our area and shares our passion to ensure that no one in our communities has to wonder where their next meal is coming from. Your key responsibilities will include

leading the Trustee Board in fulfilling its responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the organisation along with the CEO, acting as the principal public face of the organisation ensuring effective relationships among all those engaged with the work of Chiltern Foodbank.

You must be willing to serve a full term of three years, devoting least half a day per week to the role. You should have proven leadership skills and previous Board level experience, ideally in a non-profit organisation.  As for all our Trustees, this is an unremunerated voluntary role but out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed. Closing date for applications: 5pm, 31st October 2024

What are we looking for?

The role requires proven leadership skills including the ability to plan and chair effective Board Meetings, the ability to support and encourage the Coordinator and maintain a close working relationship with Trustees, Trussell Trust, referral partners and volunteers. Our Chair will meet the following person specification. Personal behaviour and style

Demonstrable commitment to the aims, objectives, and values of Chiltern Foodbank, recognizing that it is a Christian organisation Passionate about bringing an end to food poverty Listens to others and provides decisive leadership when required Integrity, diplomacy, and sensitive approach Good communication and interpersonal skills Impartiality, fairness, and the ability to respect confidences Commitment to equality and diversity.

Knowledge and experience

Good understanding of the causes and impacts of poverty on individuals and families Previous board level experience, ideally in a non-profit organisation Experience of leadership and governance, including strategic planning and performance management Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of being a Trustee of a non-profit organisation. Ideally, previous professional or voluntary experience with a foodbank or other organisation dedicated to the relief of poverty.

Skills and abilities

Leadership skills, including the ability to support and encourage the Coordinator and maintain a close working relationship between all those involved in the work of the foodbank Sufficient time to prepare for and participate in meetings and other activities, and to represent the organisation externally Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders and audiences Ability to plan, prepare and chair effective meetings of the Board and other committees.

What difference will you make?

As a leader in our team of over 70 highly motivated volunteers, you will be playing a key role in ensuring that no one in our communities has to wonder where their next meal is coming from. Last year we provided food for over 35,000 meals for local people over a third of whom are children.