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Board Chair

South West

Rock Pool

Organisation Type

Charity/NfP

Industry / Sector

Education / Academia / Training

About The Organisation

Chair & Trustee Opportunities – Rock Pool

Help shape the future of one of the UK’s leading trauma-informed organisations

Rock Pool is entering a pivotal new chapter. As we transition from a Community Interest Company to a registered charity, we are seeking an exceptional Chair and a founding group of Trustees to help shape our future.
With a strong track record, growing national reach and a clear sense of purpose, this is a rare opportunity to join an organisation operating at the forefront of trauma-informed training, and with a history of upskilling professionals to deliver exceptional recovery programmes.

About Rock Pool

Rock Pool is one of the UK’s leading providers of trauma-informed training and organisational development.
We equip frontline professionals across the NHS, police, local authorities and voluntary sector with the skills and tools to support individuals affected by trauma. Our nationally recognised recovery toolkits and training programmes have transformed practice across systems—supporting individuals, families and communities to move towards recovery.
With over 6,200 individuals trained in recent years and consistently outstanding feedback, our work is both impactful and in growing demand.

Position Description

The Opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to join Rock Pool at a formative moment, helping to shape the organisation as it transitions to charitable status and prepares for its next phase of growth.

We are establishing a ‘shadow board’ to work alongside the executive team during this transition. As part of this founding group, you will play a key role in embedding strong governance, contributing strategic insight, and supporting the organisation to scale its impact sustainably.

You will also act as an ambassador – helping to strengthen Rock Pool’s profile, deepen partnerships, and extend its reach across key sectors.

Selection Criteria

Chair

We are seeking a credible and connected Chair who can provide strategic leadership and act as a powerful advocate for Rock Pool’s work.

We are looking for:

  • A strong profile in one or more of: domestic abuse, sexual violence, mental health, trauma or family support
  • Significant board-level experience and a deep understanding of governance
  • The ability to act as an ambassador, building partnerships and visibility
  • Strategic insight to support the organisation through its transition and future growth

Trustees (3–4 roles)

We are building a balanced and skilled board and are particularly interested in individuals with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

  • Health systems – NHS, public health, mental health or trauma-informed care pathways
  • Local Government – Adult or Children’s Services, safeguarding or system leadership
  • Finance – financial oversight, sustainability and risk management
  • Voluntary sector leadership – charity governance, commissioning or tendering
  • Marketing, PR & Communications – brand, profile and stakeholder engagement
  • Grant fundraising – trusts & foundations and income generation

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Rock Pool is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities we serve. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience and from underrepresented backgrounds.

Why Join Rock Pool?

  • Be part of a founding board at a pivotal moment of change
  • Contribute to an organisation delivering meaningful, life-changing impact
  • Work alongside a passionate, expert and values-driven team
  • Help shape the strategy, governance and growth of a nationally recognised organisation

Location & Time Commitment

  • Location: Flexible, with a national reach (some in-person engagement encouraged)
  • Time commitment:
    – Chair: c. 2 – 4 days per month
    – Trustees: c. 1 day per month

How to Apply

Full details can be found on the Public Leaders Appointments website.

For a confidential conversation in advance of your application, contact our recruitment partner Anna Jay, MD Public Leaders Appointments:

[email protected] or 07904 236 348.

Closing date: 17 June 2026
Interviews: 23–24 July 2026