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Chair of the Board at YMCA DownsLink Group

We are the largest charity in Sussex and Surrey working to prevent youth homelessness and support children and young people’s emotional and mental health. We support children and young people with multiple and complex needs up to the age of 25.

We are looking for a new Chair of our Board who shares our vision and will play a pivotal role in guiding the Board and supporting the CEO, ensuring that governance is strong and aligned with the organisation’s values, strategic goals and founding Christian principles. As a leader, the Chair shapes the culture, champions inclusivity and drives the strategic direction of the organisation. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people through a dynamic and highly respected organisation.

What does the opportunity involve doing?

The Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding the Board and supporting the CEO, ensuring that governance is strong and aligned with the organisation’s values, strategic goals and founding Christian principles. As a leader, the Chair shapes the culture, champions inclusivity and drives the strategic direction of the organisation. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people through a dynamic and highly respected organisation.

What induction, training and support is offered?

To be discussed at interview.

What skills or qualities are needed?

► To have an active Christian faith and a passion for our vision, mission and values.
► To be committed to inclusivity and respectful of other faiths and cultures, leading fellow trustees in this area.
► To have experience of leadership in a charity, housing association or similar highly regulated environment.
► To be progressive and strategic with sound judgement that promotes independent thinking and stimulates discussion and decision-making.
► To possess the ability to communicate with people at all levels, understanding the difference from the
governance role when speaking with staff and the children and young people in our services.
► To have an awareness of the role and the pressures on the CEO and Executive Team, being available for advice and guidance as necessary.
► To be a strong communicator who is transparent and open and brings the right amount of constructive
challenge.
► To be an analytical thinker who is able to consider proposals and consequences.
► To have a desire to develop and lead a high performing Board.
► To hold a sound knowledge of good governance and an understanding of the role of the Company Secretary.
► To have sufficient time to undertake the role.
► To have previous chair experience is desirable, as are candidates with links to the local area

More info
Date added

20th October 2025

Organisation

YMCA DownsLink Group

Location

City wide

Deadline for applications

3 Nov 2025

Categories

Children/families People with mental health problems Young people

Activities

Being a committee member/trustee

Disabled access?

No

Expenses paid?

No

Childcare available?

No

Contact name

Sian Stokes

More info »

https://www.ymcadlg.org/join-our-board-of-trustees/