Chair and Trustees

As Population Matters looks to embark on the next phase of our evolution, we are seeking dynamic and visionary individuals to join our Board of Trustees, including a new Chair. We are a nonprofit organization with a strong commitment to our vision: a future in which humanity co-exists in harmony with nature, recognises and respects ecological boundaries, and prospers on a healthy planet. One in which future generations of children grow up in a regenerating, wildlife-rich world, sustained by resilient, thriving ecosystems.

We catalyse positive action through fostering choices that will help achieve a sustainable human population and regenerate our environment. We do this by promoting positive, practical, ethical solutions – empowering people everywhere to choose smaller families and championing more sustainable consumption. We foreground human rights, women’s empowerment and global justice. We are informed by experts with input from our Expert Advisory Group, our Patrons and other key stakeholders and partners.

Role: Trustee
Term: Three years, renewable once
Commitment: Approx. one day per month (voluntary, reasonable expenses covered)

Responsibilities:

• Develop and agree on long-term strategies, ensuring that Population Matters pursues its charitable purpose.
• Safeguard our values and good name, ensuring compliance with charity laws and financial stability.
• Provide leadership and governance while holding the Chief Executive to account.
• Work collaboratively on board papers, strategic decisions, and organisational oversight.
• Attend four board meetings a year (two in person, two online) and contribute to committees.

Person Specification:

• Commitment to Population Matters and its goals.
• Strategic vision and independent judgement.
• A team player with good interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship.
• Adherence to Nolan’s seven principles of public life.
• Expertise and experience in one or more of the following areas:
• International development
• Environmental causes
• Reproductive rights and family planning
• Education
• Advocacy and campaigning
• Financial management and oversight
• Governance and legal frameworks
• Communications and public relations
• Fundraising and income generation

Role: Chair of Trustees
Term: Three years, renewable once
Commitment: Additional 0.5 – 1 day per month beyond trustee responsibilities

The Role:

The Chair plays an essential role in ensuring the smooth running and effectiveness of the board, providing leadership and guidance as Population Matters continues to grow. You will facilitate good decision-making, lead governance, and ensure that the board delivers on strategy and organisational goals. As an ambassador for Population Matters, you will represent the charity with external stakeholders, regulators, and significant partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the board, ensuring effective governance and a collaborative team environment.
• Set the strategic direction and ensure the board receives the necessary information to make informed decisions.
• Chair board meetings, supporting trustee engagement and active participation.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive, offering support and challenge, ensuring their development.
• Build and nurture external relationships, representing Population Matters with credibility and knowledge.

Person Specification:

• Significant leadership experience at a senior level, ideally within the environmental or international development sectors.
• Strong ambassadorial skills, with experience in external representation with key stakeholders and funders.
• Financial literacy and understanding of charity governance.
• Collaborative approach with a proven track record in team leadership and development.
• Commitment to Population Matters’ mission and values.
• If you are passionate about making a tangible difference in the world and shaping the future of our planet, we invite you to consider joining our board. Together, we can drive positive action towards a sustainable future.

Location: Board meetings held in London SE1, with some meetings online.

If you would like to receive an Information Pack for the Trustee and Chair roles with full details, including how to apply, please send an expression of interest and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile in confidence to our consultant, Jenny Hills at Harris Hill, executive@harrishill.co.uk. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny at the above address with suitable times to talk.

Closing date for applications: 9am Monday 2nd December

Harris Hill Charities Recruitment Specialists operates an equal opportunity policy and commits to treating all of our candidates and jobseekers fairly. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.