CHEC is looking for a new Chair!

Advert for the post of Chair at The Commonwealth Human Ecology Council

Job Title:                     Chair

Responsible to:          The Governing Board

Time Requirement:   15-20 hours per month

Renumeration:           Volunteer Role

Location:                     Must be UK-Based.
Hybrid Role: Online with some in-person attendance to Governing Board Meetings and Events

Deadline:                    31st October 2025

Background

The Commonwealth Human Ecology Council (CHEC) is a UK-registered international development charity committed to pursuing sustainable solutions for the preservation and use of the planet’s natural resources. Through its focus on human ecology – the web of relationships between ecosystems and human societies – CHEC works to create lasting improvements for local communities across the Commonwealth.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of the Commonwealth Human Ecology Council (CHEC) is to further the importance of a holistic and sustainable view of the world and a continuing emphasis on development through the implementation of human ecology. CHEC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), accredited to COP through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and accredited to the Commonwealth Secretariat. For over 50 years, CHEC has funded vital local initiatives, published leading journals, and helped to define innovative policy across the Commonwealth. We encourage you to CHEC out the rest of our webpage for more information about our history, journals, and projects.


Role and Responsibilities

CHEC is looking for a dynamic and experienced applicant for the role of Chair, who is keen to provide strategic leadership and deploy influencing skills in a variety of settings. 

As chair, you will attend six governing board meetings a year and be supported by the Honorary Treasurer, Secretary and other Trustees to ensure CHEC has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction. 

You will support and hold the Governing Board responsible for delivering the strategy and ensure we comply with all legal, regulatory, and financial requirements, maintaining CHEC’s high standard of corporate governance. You will also act as a guardian of the CHEC’s assets, both tangible and intangible. 

The Chair will work inclusively, constructively, and flexibly, enabling the Board to fulfil its responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity and protection of the wider reputation of CHEC. 

As Chair, you will assist the governing board on the grant selection of local projects and initiatives, contributions to the biannual journals, and represent the charity at international events, which include CHOGM, UN Climate (COP) and SHE conferences.  

The Chair will also work closely with CHEC’s subsidiary charity – the Human Ecology Foundation (HEF) – HEF is responsible for safeguarding the charitable trust which supports education and project activities in human ecology - implemented by CHEC.

The role is voluntary; however, funds can be made available for travel to UK meetings and, on occasion, for international events.

Candidate Requirements
Essential

  1. Must be UK-based. Governing Board meetings are held both in person in London and virtually, hybrid format.

  2. Proven leadership experience within international development and human ecology setting.

  3. At least 5 years of experience on a governing board of a UK charity with a strong understanding of governance principles to ensure that CHEC operates in compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.

  4. Knowledge and experience of managing charity financial resources.

  5. A passion for sustainable development and practices that champion the environment and respect for gender, youth, and diverse perspectives to ensure CHEC's initiatives are inclusive.

  6. Understanding of and commitment to the purpose and value of the Commonwealth of Nations in the 21st century, including the Commonwealth Charter.

  7. Proven communication skills to facilitate the organisation's goals, activities, and achievements to a wide range of audiences.

  8. Excellent networking skills to foster partnerships and collaborations with stakeholders, and a willingness to attend conferences such as CHOGM and COP to maximise CHEC's impact.

Desirable

  1. Experience working with the Commonwealth, its secretariat, the UN, or other multilateral organisations.

  2. Proven experience of engaging with civil society organisations to develop networks and partnerships. 

How to Apply

Application deadline is 31 October 2025. 

Applications should include a CV, a Cover Letter, and Two References. 

All applications should be sent to: applications@checinternational.org

Applications and interviews will be organised on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.