Chair of the Board of Trustees

Welcome to Groundwork London 

Thank you very much for your interest in becoming Chair of Groundwork London.

As London faces an evolving and increasingly complex set of challenges, our work is more critical than ever. Our strategy is shaped by the evolving needs of Londoners and the unique scale of the city’s environmental, social, and economic issues, as well as its opportunities for regeneration and growth. We are operating in a city under pressure from growth and from continued reductions in public expenditure which have a significant impact on our communities, on local authorities and on other public and voluntary sector partners.

We work across the capital, partnering with residents, local authorities, businesses, and community organisations to improve local environments, support those facing disadvantage, and help London adapt to the challenges of climate change.

Our 250 dedicated staff provide specialist services to help people gain confidence and skills, get into training and work, protect and improve greenspaces, lead more active lives and overcome significant challenges such as poverty isolation, low skills and poor health.

Chair of the Board of Trustees

We are seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Chair of our Board of Trustees and help guide the organisation through its next phase of impact and development.

The Chair provides strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring that Groundwork London remains mission‑driven, well‑governed, and financially resilient. This is a pivotal role for someone who believes in the power of community‑led change and who can bring clarity, confidence, and ambition to our governance.

The Chair works closely with the Executive Director, acting as a critical friend, sounding board, and advocate. They ensure the Board operates effectively, fosters a culture of constructive challenge, and supports the executive team to deliver high‑quality programmes that respond to the needs of London’s diverse communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in setting the charity’s strategic direction and ensuring alignment with Groundwork London’s mission and values
• Ensure strong governance, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and effective risk management
• Support, appraise, and provide guidance to the Executive Director, maintaining a productive and transparent working relationship
• Chair the Board and relevant committee meetings, ensuring inclusive, informed, and timely decision‑making
• Promote a positive, collaborative Board culture that values diversity of thought and experience
• Act as an ambassador for Groundwork London, representing the organisation externally and helping to build strong relationships with partners, funders, and stakeholders
• Ensure appropriate Board oversight of organisational performance, financial health, and long‑term sustainability
• Lead the Board in evaluating its own effectiveness and ensuring continuous improvement

About You

We are looking for an experienced and collaborative leader who brings:

• A strong commitment to Groundwork London’s mission and values, environmental sustainability and social impact
• Significant Board-level leadership experience, including previous experience successfully chairing a Board, or equivalent senior governance forum 
• Demonstrable experience of effective governance, risk oversight, and strategic decision-making within the charity sector or another regulated environment
• Experience of building effective and constructive relationships with senior executives
• Experience operating within a complex organisation with multiple stakeholders, competing priorities, and significant public or community impact
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to lead inclusive and constructive Board discussions
• Credibility and confidence in representing an organisation to external stakeholders
• Sound judgement, integrity, and the confidence to offer constructive challenge
• An inclusive and collaborative leadership style and an understanding of the diverse communities we serve

Location: London 
Time commitment: Approximately 2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings and regular contact with the Executive Director
Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)
Term of Office: 3 years, renewable

Why Join Us

As Chair, you will play a central role in shaping the future of a charity that is making a tangible difference to people and places across London. You will work with a passionate team, a committed Board, and a network of partners who share a belief in community‑powered change. This is an opportunity to use your leadership to help deliver meaningful, lasting impact in partnership with people and communities across London.

Expression of Interest

If you’re interested in becoming the new Chair of Groundwork London please share your CV or Biography with us.  We would also appreciate a statement about why you’re interested in becoming Chair, highlighting how your qualities, experience and skills fit the role.

Please email your expression of interest to  Zena Edwards - PA to the Executive Director at zena.edwards@groundwork.org.uk by Thursday 16^th July. 

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.