Chairperson Board

This is an exceptional opportunity to Chair the governing board of an established and respected organisation addressing the most important concerns facing our world today.

CHEC is looking for a dynamic and experienced applicant for the role of Chair, who is keen to provide strategic leadership and deploy influencing skills in support of the diverse aims and objectives of the organisation. Please find further information here:

The Commonwealth Human Ecology Council (CHEC) drives action for sustainable development. At the heart of our mission is human ecology — understanding and strengthening the vital relationship in which ecological systems and human societies interact. For more than 55 years, CHEC has delivered education, advocacy, policy publications, and encouraged high‑level partnerships while funding community‑led initiatives that create real, local impact.

Our projects span Australia and the Pacific (Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia), Barbados, Bangladesh, Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, The Gambia, Ghana, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Kenya, Malta, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and the United Kingdom. Explore our recent work here.

As an educational and international development charity, CHEC is officially registered with the Charity Commission in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland for England and Wales.

The aim of the Commonwealth Human Ecology Council is to advance efforts towards a sustainable future, which demands not only innovative technological development but awareness and guidelines on the impacts to resources, ecosystems, biodiversity, livelihoods and health. It requires environmental management to improve local adaptation and resilience in ways that enhance the livelihoods and health of communities.

• Funding local community initiative projects that strengthen resilience and support community‑led solutions
• Publishing journals that reach policymakers and inform sustainable development
• Hosting events and participating in international conferences to share expertise and amplify Commonwealth perspectives
• Providing evidence and guidance to governments, civil society, and multilateral bodies

Raise awareness by bringing together scientists, ecologists, indigenous peoples, educationalists, practitioners, academics, lawyers, policymakers and other expert communities through journals and events.

Support advocacy by providing community‑level evidence and solutions through funding projects, educational outreach and policy guidance to strengthen resilience and inform decision‑making.

Advance CHEC’s influence through its formal accreditation to numerous relevant organisations within the international system, which acts as a vehicle of change to make meaningful contributions:

• Accreditation to COP through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
• Accreditation to the Commonwealth Secretariat
• Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

The Chair oversees and governs the organisation, guided and supported by an active and engaged international governing board of senior experts, practitioners, academics and youth representatives.

As chair, you will attend six governing board meetings a year and be supported by the Honorary Treasurer, Secretary and other Trustees to ensure CHEC has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction.

You will support and hold the Governing Board responsible for delivering the strategy and ensure we comply with all legal, regulatory, and financial requirements, maintaining CHEC’s high standard of corporate governance.

Remuneration:
This is a voluntary role; however, reasonable funds can be made available for travel to UK meetings and, on occasion, for international events.

• Must be UK-based. Governing Board meetings are held both in person in London and virtually, hybrid format.
• Proven leadership experience within international development.
• At least 5 years of experience on a governing board of a UK charity with a strong understanding of…