The Society of Designer Craftsmen is seeking a new Chair

The Interim Chair is reaching the end of a year's term during which clear, new strategic plans have been agreed and are in the process of being operationalised. Existing Council are committed for the next 2 years to ensure a smooth transition and during this time are keen to ensure that a fit for purpose Council and structure for the organisation is achieved. The incoming Chair should have experience in transition management and building capacity to ensure the new strategy can be implemented. They will need to have strong vision and a passion for seeing the crafts sector flourish; and particularly to be keen to champion makers. The role would benefit from strong financial acuity - particularly in establishing a stable financial future for the society. Experience in membership and funding would also be desirable.

Job requirements

• Must understand corporate and charity financial governance principles and practices and have worked with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Financial management experience
• Knowledge or interest in the Creative Industries, specifically the Craft sector
• Maturity and gravitas to lead a significant national organisation with integrity and professionalism having operated at a strategic leadership level within an organisation
• A proven track record of organisational and leadership skills with an ability to motivate and bring people together; experience in the appointment of directors and managing an organisation of a similar size
• Experience of committee work and management of meetings
• Strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role
• Will be impartial, discreet, exercising sound judgement
• Good communication skills with an ability to listen and engage effectively and respond with tact and diplomacy

Job responsibilities

• Chair 8 -10 Council Meetings per year.
• Prepare for and host the annual AGM and Council Away Days
• Line manage the Society's Executive which currently amounts to 1x weekly meeting (plus additional ad-hoc support)
• Be available for check-ins and reviews with other staff as required
• Some participation in SDC working sub-committees
• Manage Chair email address, responding to emails directed to the Chair (with support from Exec Director, Administrator and trustees) - this could include writing references for members applications for grants etc which could be delegated to trustees
• Attendance in an ambassadorial role at the Society's public events and exhibitions and key external craft calendar events including London Craft Week
• Create and implement appropriate policies and procedures for the activities of the charity, ensuring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making
• Act as an ambassador and spokesperson for the Society at external meetings and events

For more information, contact Nikkan Woodhouse on: Chair@societyofdesignercraftsmen.org.uk

Image: Hawthorn Chair, Sean Evelegh MSDC