Chair of the Board Recruitment

We are seeking an exceptional leader to become our next Chair of the Board. Could it be you?

As our current Chair prepares to retire in early 2026, we are looking for a passionate, strategic, and visionary individual to take on this important role. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a committed Board, support an ambitious leadership team, and help drive meaningful impact in the community.

Why join us?

As Chair of the Board, you will lead a dedicated team of trustees in championing our mission and safeguarding our values. You will work closely with the Chief Executive, build strong relationships with key stakeholders, and support the long-term strategic vision of YMCA Humber.

You will join a well-respected, values-led organisation with strong governance, a capable executive team, and a clear sense of purpose.

Key responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the Board in fulfilling its strategic, legal, and financial responsibilities
• Chair Board meetings effectively and support the work of sub-committees 
• Foster a collaborative and reflective Board culture
• Maintain high standards of governance in line with regulatory frameworks
• Build a constructive partnership with the Chief Executive
• Represent the organisation publicly and at strategic levels

What we are looking for

We are seeking a leader with presence, experience, and empathy. Someone who can lead by example, challenge constructively, and support with vision. Ideal candidates will have:

• Extensive senior leadership and governance experience
• Experience in chairing meetings and team development
• Excellent interpersonal, listening, and verbal communication skills
• A deep understanding of governance, strategy, and community impact
• Knowledge of the local community and social sector
• A values-driven approach with integrity, inclusivity, and ambition at its core  

The support you will receive

You will receive dedicated administrative support throughout your tenure from our Clerk of the Board, who will assist with scheduling, document management and liaison with trustees and the Senior Leadership Team.

Board activity schedule

• 5 full Board meetings per year
• 5 Sub-committee meetings per year
• 1 Strategy Development Day per year  

Trustee eligibility

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and must not be disqualified under the Charities Act. Disqualifying factors include:

• Being disqualified as a company director
• Unspent convictions for offences involving dishonesty or deception
• Being an undischarged bankrupt or subject to a debt arrangement
• Removal as a trustee due to misconduct or mismanagement
• Being on the sex offenders register  

Expectations from the Charity Commission

All trustees must demonstrate:

• Integrity  
• A willingness to commit time and effort  
• Strategic thinking and sound judgment  
• Creativity and independent thought  
• The ability to challenge and support  
• Commitment to teamworking  
• A willingness to undertake training where necessary  

Interested?

If you are ready to lead with vision and make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you. We welcome expressions of interest from individuals of all backgrounds.

We would initially like to invite you to meet with Kate Conway our Chief Executive at our Head Office on Freeman Street, Grimsby where, over a coffee she will provide you with a deeper insight into what we do, what we stand for and provide you with a tour of our amazing facilities.

You will have the opportunity to visit our main accommodation building on Freeman Street, our Youth Centre at Kent Street MUGA and our Wellbeing Services, plus Clee Fields, our state of the art Sports Facility.

Following this, we will provide you with further information, giving you time to consider and reflect as to whether a role with us at YMCA Humber is right for you.

Ready to apply?

For further information click here or to arrange an informal discussion with our CEO please contact Kate Conway, Chief Executive Officer, via e-mail: kate.conway@ymca-humber.com. Alternatively, please contact Ceinwen Fews, People and Policy Manager on 01472 403020 ext 571 or e-mail: ceinwen.fews@ymca-humber.com.