We are working in partnership with Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK), established in 1995, a voluntary coalition of assistance dog charities that have been accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) and/or The International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). ADUK currently has twelve accredited member organisations as well as working with five organisations (candidates) that are working towards the same accreditation.
ADUK is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the charity in an exciting period of development. The new Chair will work with the Board and Development Manager to ensure ADUK develops its external presence and influence, whilst continuing to work as an effective umbrella body and hub for assistance dog-related information and good practice. Ensuring that the organisation remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes, giving direction to Board policymaking, representing the organisation at functions and meetings, and building new networks and relationships with relevant stakeholders and decision-makers will be key. If required, the Chair will be offered full training about assistance dogs and the relevant legislation, history, and industry.
The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate the following:
- Experience as a Chair, Trustee, or in a leadership role.
- Experience in leading or being significantly involved in leading national campaigns for change.
- Experience in the Disability or Animal Welfare sectors or lived experience of being partnered with an assistance dog.
- Knowledge of the wider voluntary sector.
- Experience in effective partnership management and collaborative working across diverse organisations.
We are seeking a strategic individual who can demonstrate credibility, experience, and influence to benefit the work of ADUK, supporting the organisation to meet its ambitions. Tact and diplomacy, good communication and interpersonal skills, impartiality, fairness, and the ability to respect confidentiality will be essential. The Board meets four times a year at one of the member organisations (in person) held on Wednesdays (during working hours). Additional time commitment required for virtual working group meetings once a month, AGM and ad hoc members events and media opportunities.
For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Principal Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
We welcome and encourage expressions of interest from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
Closing date: 2nd August 2023
Interviews undertaken by Charisma will need to be completed by close of play on the 8th in preparation for shortlisting on 9th August.
Interviews with ADUK are expected to take place from the 15th August onwards.