Chair of the Board of Trustees
Hawk and Owl Trust
Who we are
The Hawk and Owl Trust is a national UK charity (1058565) founded in 1969 and is dedicated to conserving owls and birds of prey in the wild and increasing knowledge and understanding of them.
We create and manage nesting and roosting sites and advise on feeding habitats for birds of prey; carry out practical research; and welcome visitors to our wildlife reserves in Norfolk and Somerset, education centres and outreach projects.
The role
Objective
The Chair will provide supportive and inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Operating Director, staff, and volunteers—helping everyone stay aligned with the charity’s mission and vision. They’ll work to ensure that each trustee feels confident in fulfilling their responsibilities and that the Board operates as a cohesive and effective team.
The Chair will also collaborate closely with the Chief Operating Director, supporting them in their role and fostering strong relationships across the organisation. Together, they’ll help the charity achieve its goals, with the Chair also serving as an ambassador and public representative of the charity.
Key Skills
- Proven senior leadership and governance experience
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Understanding of charity governance and trustee duties
- Passion for wildlife conservation
Principle Responsibilities: Chair Role
The Chair provides strategic leadership to ensure the charity delivers maximum impact in conserving birds of prey. They guide the Board in fulfilling governance duties, setting clear direction, managing risks and opportunities, and ensuring financial accountability.
The Chair also oversees effective governance practices, supports Board development, encourages positive change, manages conflict, leads annual performance appraisals, and ensures the Board has the right balance of skills and experience to lead the charity effectively, all while operating within agreed policies.
Location
- Sculthorpe, Fakenham, Norfolk (UK Administrative Centre)
- Flexible and remote-friendly – most meetings held virtually
- Some in-person attendance required in London, Sculthorpe, or Shapwick (Somerset)
Remuneration
- Voluntary position
- All reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed
Time Commitment
- Approximately 1–2 days per month
- 4–5 full Board meetings annually (mix of virtual and in-person)
- Attendance at up to 2 subcommittees, which meet quarterly (optional)
- Additional time as required to represent the charity at events, media, or key stakeholder meetings
Term
The charity’s Chair (and board members) will serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment for one additional term.
About Hawk and Owl Trust
At the Hawk and Owl Trust, we are passionate about conservation, education, and community engagement to ensure a thriving future for birds of prey and their ecosystems.
We believe in a world where birds of prey and their habitats are safe, thriving, and accessible for all to experience and protect. Through dedicated conservation efforts, research, and education, we work tirelessly to preserve these magnificent species and the environments that support them.
At the Hawk and Owl Trust, we are passionate about conservation, education, and community engagement to ensure a thriving future for birds of prey and their ecosystems.We believe in a world where birds of prey and their habitats are safe, thriving, and accessible for all to experience and protect. Through dedicated conservation efforts, research, and education, we work tirelessly to preserve these magnificent species and the environments that support them.
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