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Board Chair

South East

YMCA DownsLink Group

Organisation Type

Charity/NfP

Industry / Sector

NGO / NFP / Other Charitable

About The Organisation

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We provide safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice to thousands of young people every year.

We believe every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside young people, many of whom face homelessness, poor mental health, exploitation, family breakdown and multiple disadvantage, helping them build stability, confidence and independence.

Over recent years, we have strengthened our foundations financially, operationally and culturally and are now entering a new phase of purposeful growth. Our new strategy, Expanding our reach, deepening our impact, includes an ambition to reach 50% more children and young people by 2031.

Our values guide everything we do:

We do what’s right
We work with heart
We build real connection
YMCA DownsLink Group is proud to be a member of the Federation of YMCA England and Wales.

Position Description

Join YMCA DownsLink Group as Chair and help lead an ambitious charity supporting children and young people to be safe, heard and thrive.

The Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding the Board and supporting the CEO, ensuring that governance is strong and aligned with the organisation’s values, strategic goals and founding Christian principles.

As a leader, the Chair shapes the culture, champions inclusivity and drives the strategic direction of the organisation.

This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people through a dynamic and highly respected organisation.

Selection Criteria

We are looking for a values-led and collaborative leader who is genuinely excited by the opportunity to chair an ambitious organisation at an important moment in its journey. With a bold new strategy, strong foundations and a talented executive team in place, this is a compelling opportunity to help shape what comes next for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey.

You will be an experienced chair or senior board-level leader, progressive and strategic in your thinking, and skilled at creating the conditions for thoughtful discussion and effective decision-making. You will bring the right balance of support and constructive challenge, and the emotional intelligence to build a trusted partnership with our CEO and executive team.

How to Apply

Visit the Peridot Partners website to learn more and apply.

Chair | YMCA DownsLink Group