Chair to help drive strategy for dynamic charity supporting unaccompanied asylum seeking young people

Chair to help drive strategy for dynamic charity supporting unaccompanied asylum seeking young people

Trustee/Governor
J99458
At a glance

Skills

  • Financial management
  • Governance
  • Strategic development and planning
  • Strategic mentoring / coaching

Where

Brighton and Hove, BN3 3DJ
Mainly at home
Travel limit? 25 miles

Time

Either in or out of office hours Estimate of time needed:
1-3 hours / week
Quarterly Trustee meetings and up to 4 hours per week general support and emails

Deadline

01 Dec 2024

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We need an enthusiastic and dedicated Chair to join our board at Enthum Foundation to lead on our strategic development and ensure our growth and sustainability. Our Trustee team has expanded and it’s the right time to be led by a new Chair.

What will you be doing?

The Enthum Foundation seeks to provide a safe, happy and stable home environment for asylum seekers and refugees (aged 16-18 years). Enthum House first opened its doors in 2018. We have grown to a (nearly) £1 million turnover organisation and have big ambitions.  We well regarded by local authorities and commissioners and this year we were the first Supported accommodation provider in East Sussex to be Ofsted registered.

“Enthum House is the best house I have ever lived in” – Young person and past resident

Responsibilities

To lead the committee effectively therefore enabling the organisation to fulfil its purpose. The chair ensures there is an effective communication between the committee and the members, and the committee and the external community/stakeholders.

The chair also supports the directors and acts as a spokesperson and figurehead of the organisation.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a chair who resonates with our core values and works to advance our mission and is an ambassador for the charity, able to advocate for its cause and young people and represent it at events, in the media, or with donors and supporters.

Specifically;

Give firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating progress and encouraging innovation within the charity, seeking out creative solutions to complex problems. They should be open to new ideas, approaches, and partnerships that can enhance the charity’s impact.

Specific sector knowledge and an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the non-profit sector are key ; an awareness of funding landscapes, regulatory environments, and the specific needs of the charity’s beneficiaries.

While the chair need not be an expert accountant, they should have a strong understanding of financial management to oversee the charity’s financial health. Key aspects include,

  • Budget Oversight - The chair must be able to review and understand financial statements, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts. We have a Trustee with a strong Charity finance background who will support with this.
  • Fundraising Insight – Enthum Foundation relies on donations and grants; it is desirable the chair has a grasp of fundraising strategies and the ability to support or guide income generation efforts.
  • Risk Management - The chair must be able to identify potential financial risks, such as funding shortfalls or changes in regulatory requirements, and work with the board and directors to develop mitigation strategies.

Excellent communication and relationship-building, both within the charity and with external stakeholders. This involves,

  • Leading board meetings, discussions, and strategic reviews requires strong facilitation skills. The chair should ensure that all voices are heard, debates are balanced, and the group arrives at consensus when needed.
  • Navigating complex relationships—whether between trustees, the directors, or external partners. The chair must manage conflicts, mediate disputes, and foster a cooperative and productive environment.

What difference will you make?

Are you ready to make a profound impact on the Enthum Foundation charity and help steer it toward a brighter future? We are actively seeking a dynamic and visionary individual to take on the pivotal role of Chair to our board. As the Chair, you will play a crucial role in shaping the culture and direction of our organisation. Your primary responsibility will be to facilitate the decision-making process, especially during challenging and complex situations where consensus may be elusive. You will not only seek consensus but also enable diverse voices, including dissenting opinions, to be heard and considered. To excel in this role, you'll need to bring a wealth of emotional intelligence, diplomatic finesse, and soft power to the table. Your judgement, courage, and resilience will be your guiding compass in navigating our charity's path forward. Additionally, your ability to stay connected and influential between meetings, acting as a wise counsellor, will be instrumental in our success. If you possess these vital characteristics and are ready to drive positive change, we encourage you to apply for the role of Chair at the Enthum Foundation and help us make a lasting difference to unaccompanied asylum seeking children in East Sussex and the UK.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete our additional application procedure and meetings with other Trustees. 

Causes
  • Refugees / migrants
  • Young people
  • Organisation type: 
    Charity

    We provide a safe and sustainable home to unaccompanied asylum seeking children aged 16-18. We strive to be a responsive and wholesome residential community committed to reciprocal learning....