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There is a huge variety of charities and non-profits across the UK, and as such, a huge variety in the chairing role too. We have created a basic template role description for a chair, which you can add to and adapt for your own organisation. The text in square brackets is for you to amend. At the bottom of the page you’ll be able to download the template in a Word document for you to use.

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Chair role description

Chair – [Insert organisation name]

Time commitment: The chair will need to attend [X] board meetings per year, and is expected to have meetings with the CEO and other trustees when required, in addition to other relevant events relating to the work of the organisation. We estimate the time commitment to be [X] days per month.

Location: [X]

Main responsibilities:

• Ensure the board discusses and agrees the purpose and values of the organisation and remains focussed on them.
• Lead the board in identifying key strategic decisions, including the financial strategy, to be made and delivered.
• Ensure timely and well-founded decision-making that advances the values and purpose of our organisation.
• Work with the board and staff to further our strong commitment to equity diversity and inclusion.
• Ensure the organisation has in place appropriate policies, systems and procedures to operate legally and effectively.
• Monitor the progress of the organisation in light of the strategic objectives.

The chair will work with trustees to:

• Manage potential conflicts of interest to ensure probity and that there is appropriate transparency.
• Review board composition, and ensure timely trustee recruitment and development.
• Build an effective, high performing board team, supporting individuals, facilitating good relationships, promoting co-operative working.
• Chair board meetings, making sure they are minuted, and that follow up actions are communicated and monitored.
• Ensure board members are equipped to carry out their duties, identifying any learning, development, support, information, or advice that may be needed.

The chair will work closely with the [CEO / senior management] to:

• Develop and maintain a productive and supportive working relationship with the CEO.
• Ensure high quality relationships with staff and volunteers, enabling our organisation to deliver confidently, consistently and to a high standard.
• Conduct the annual appraisal of the CEO or senior leader.
• Relate any concerns of the board to the senior leadership.
• Work with the CEO to schedule and plan board meetings and ensure the provision and dissemination of relevant information to board members from the CEO and staff/ volunteer team.

Externally the chair will seek to:

• Work, as required, to build relationships with key stakeholders.
• Be an ambassador for the organisation.