Charity sector umbrella body NCVO has formally launched its search for the next chair of its board of trustees.
NCVO is accepting applications for the role now ahead of its current chair, Priya Singh, completing her second and final term in 2026.
By recruiting a new chair now, the board is “aiming to allow ample time for the chair designate’s induction and handover before starting the role”, NCVO said in its announcement.
“The new chair will play a crucial role in shaping how the membership body supports, champions and amplifies the voices of its more than 17,000 diverse member organisations, now and in the future,” it said.
NCVO said it “particularly welcomes interest from candidates with significant governance experience, a proven ability to influence, and the skills needed to support both the board and executive in driving change”.
‘Opportunity to set a bold new direction’
The announcement comes shortly after NCVO’s new chief executive Kate Lee started her role, replacing former CEO Sarah Elliott.
Lee said: “Our 17,000 members work tirelessly, day in day out, to ensure the people and communities they serve get the support they need, but we know they do so in an increasingly challenging environment.
“It is vital NCVO be their biggest champion, and provide the support they need so they can continue their brilliant work.
“I am looking forward to working closely with our new chair, as well as the board, our staff, members and partners, to shape a new bold, long-term strategy that delivers for civil society organisations across the country in the years ahead.”
Chris Sherwood, co-vice chair of NCVO’s trustee board, and CEO of NSPCC, said: “This is a hugely exciting time to join NCVO as our new chair.
“With Kate Lee recently joining us as our new chief executive, and being at the start of a full strategic review, we have a unique opportunity to set a bold new direction for the organisation and strengthen our vital role as the voice of the voluntary sector.
“We are deeply grateful to our outgoing chair, Dr Priya Singh, for her dedicated and committed leadership over the last five years and look forward to working with her successor to guide NCVO into its next chapter.”
