Non-executive Chair Board of Trustees

Full time

Unpaid

Mon, 05 Oct 2026
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published - Mon, 05 Oct 2026

Job Summary York Archaeological Trust for Research and Excavation Limited, an educational and research charity, is currently looking for a new non-executive chair of the board of trustees at an exciting period of development.

Job Description This appointment comes at an exciting and significant time for York Archaeology; we have recently launched a new strategy, including some important ambitions and objectives that will move the organisation forward significantly in its capacity to deliver meaningful public benefit through archaeology and heritage. We are also seeking to become a more inclusive organisation, and to further build the sustainability of the organisation, both financially and environmentally.

This is a challenging agenda, and one which will require a Chair who is able to work sensitively and collaboratively with the Exec Team and the organisation as a whole, while providing rigorous challenge and maintaining a clear sense of direction. Key attributes will be the ability to establish trusted relationships, to communicate well and to oversee a complex organisation which is in the middle of a period of significant evolution and transition.

Ultimately, we are looking for someone who will do their best for the organisation. It is anticipated that the duties of the Chair are likely to take around four days per month, in normal circumstances. The usual appointment period is for up to two terms, each of three years.

The role is unpaid, save for expenses. The Board meets at least 5 times annually. The Chair will need ready access to York, as the headquarters of the organisation.

Further information about the Trust is available at  

Job Requirements experience of being a trustee in a not-for-profit or charity sector organisation an understanding of governance, especially in the charitable sector strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the capacity to foster an effective relationship with the Exec Team, and the emotional maturity and resilience to provide an appropriate balance between support, and constructive scrutiny and challenge an orientation towards a collaborative leadership style, and an appreciation of the importance of fostering conditions in which staff at all levels can flourish an appreciation of the financial context within which a charity such as York Archaeology operates, including an awareness of the importance of fundraising some business acumen, with some exposure to senior-level financial leadership A commitment to the values associated with effective public engagement in the charitable sector, and to diversity, equality and sustainability.

Job Responsibilities Ensure that the organisation is well governed, that it pursues its charitable objectives as defined in its governing document, and that it fulfils the expectations and requirements of a charity, and of a limited company Work with the Exec Team to move the organisation forward. In particular, to oversee the development and realisation of York Archaeology's Strategy Hold the Exec Team to account for the delivery of the strategic vision and for organisational effectiveness Chair the Board effectively, ensure that all voices are heard and oversee the recruitment and development of trustees Ensure and oversee the organisation's financial security Maintain careful oversight of any risk to the reputation of the organisation Act as the public face of the organisation as appropriate, including explaining and promoting the organisation's role and remit to key stakeholders and the wider public, and fostering relations with potential clients, funders and donors.

Job Overview

Job Title:

Non-executive Chair of the Board of Trustees Salary:
Unpaid

Hours:

Full time
Artform:
Museums Role:
Fundraising

Contract:

Contract Closing date:
Fri, 30 Oct 2026

Location:

Yorkshire|view on Google Maps

Job:
Non-executive Chair of the Board of Trustees Job:
Non-executive Chair of the Board of Trustees Organisation:
York Archaeology Postcode: YO1 7BX

How to Apply

To apply , please submit a CV and covering letter to [email protected] by midnight on 30th October 2026.Contact name:
Lisa Wood Contact email: [email protected]About York Archaeology York Archaeology is a self-funded educational Charity and a leading professional archaeological organisation operating throughout the UK.We manage three attractions within York; JORVIK Viking Centre, DIG and Barley Hall.

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