Chief Executive

Friends of the Lake District is a confident, dynamic and financially resilient charity dedicated to protecting and enhancing the extraordinary landscapes that make the Lake District and Cumbria so distinctive. Working collaboratively with a wide range of partners, we campaign, influence policy, and take practical action to safeguard these places, rich in nature, culture and beauty for the benefit of communities now and for generations to come.

Our current Chief Executive, who has led the organisation with great success over the past three years, will be retiring this spring. We are therefore seeking an individual with the vision, energy and commitment to build on strong foundations and lead the charity through its next chapter, maximising our impact across our Strategic Landscape Goals.

To be successful, you will bring a proven track record of campaigning, influencing and advocacy, alongside significant experience of complex stakeholder management and partnership working. You will have a sophisticated understanding of fundraising, income generation and a demonstrable record of diversifying income streams. A skilled and empowering leader, you will inspire a highly dedicated team, work effectively with our Board, and engage members, partners, communities and decision‑makers with clarity and confidence.

You will be an exceptional communicator, able to articulate complex landscape and environmental issues clearly, influence senior stakeholders, and act as a credible, expert voice at local, regional and national levels. Above all else, you will bring passion, ambition and a deep commitment to our mission and a love of one of the most spectacular landscapes in England.

Please visit Attenti's website via the Apply buttonto read the appointment brief for more information and details on how to apply.

For an informal and confidential discussion, after having read the appointment brief, please contact our advising consultants at Attenti:

Anita Dento n –  –
David Fielding –  –

Closing date for applications – Monday 30th March 2026