Surrey Hills Society

Trustee Opportunity: Chair Succession

Are you passionate about preserving the natural beauty and heritage of the Surrey Hills? Join the Surrey Hills Society as a Trustee and be part of our dedicated team working to make a positive impact on our local community and environment.

The Surrey Hills Society is a charity committed to conserving and enhancing the Surrey Hills National Landscape. Our current Chairman, who has been instrumental in leading and guiding our organisation, will be retiring at our next Annual General Meeting (AGM). We are now seeking a new Trustee who is interested in taking on the role of Chair and continuing our mission to protect and celebrate the Surrey Hills.

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to contribute your skills, experience, and passion to shape the future direction of our organisation. You will work closely with our dedicated board of trustees and staff to provide strategic leadership, governance, and oversight to ensure the effective management and long-term sustainability of the Surrey Hills Society.

Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with fellow trustees to provide strategic direction and ensure the Society's objectives are met.
- Chair board meetings, AGMs, and other key meetings, ensuring effective decision-making and participation from all trustees.
- Represent the Society at external events, meetings, and engagements, fostering positive relationships with stakeholders, partners, and the wider community. This includes acting as a delivery partner and attending Surrey Hills National Landscape Board meetings.
- Act as a spokesperson for the Society, promoting our mission, values, and achievements.
- Support and provide guidance to the Society's staff, volunteers, and members.
- Contribute to fundraising efforts, including identifying potential funding opportunities and assisting with donor cultivation.
- Stay informed about relevant issues, policies, and regulations affecting the Surrey Hills National Landscape and the wider conservation sector.
- Uphold the values and code of conduct of the Surrey Hills Society.

Requirements:
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
- Passion for the conservation and enhancement of natural landscapes and heritage.
- Experience in a leadership or governance role, preferably within the charity sector.
- Strategic and analytical thinking, with the ability to make informed decisions and provide effective oversight.
- Knowledge of the Surrey Hills National Landscape and its challenges and opportunities is desirable but not essential.
- Commitment to attend board meetings, AGMs, and other relevant events throughout the year.
- Ability to dedicate the necessary time and effort to fulfil the responsibilities of the Chair role.

If you are looking for a rewarding and impactful role where you can make a difference to the Surrey Hills community and shape the future of our organisation, we invite you to apply. 

Note: This is a voluntary position, and as such, it is unpaid. However, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation and enhancement of the Surrey Hills National Landscape, work with a passionate team of trustees, and make a lasting impact on the local community and environment.

Posted 20th November 2023

The Surrey Hills Society is an independent charity formed 15 years ago.  It promotes the positive enjoyment and care of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is in the course of being rebranded as one of the UK’s National Landscapes. We encourage those who live, work in, or visit the area to explore and learn about the special qualities and distinctiveness of the area.  The Society also uses its extensive network to actively promote the conservation and enjoyment of the Surrey Hills.

In June 2019 the Society was presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service which is the highest award for volunteer groups to recognise outstanding work done in their communities and is the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary organisations.

Our mission is summarised by four words: Conserve, Inspire, Educate and Enjoy.

For further information visit our website.