CHEC is looking for a new Chair!

The Commonwealth Human Ecology Council (CHEC) is delighted to announce that we are seeking a new Chair to lead our Governing Board into the next chapter of the organisation's work.

This is an exceptional opportunity to chair the governing board of an established and respected organisation addressing some of the most important concerns facing our world today. We are looking for a dynamic and experienced individual who is keen to provide strategic leadership and bring their influencing skills to support the diverse aims and objectives of CHEC.

About CHEC

At the heart of our mission is human ecology — understanding and strengthening the vital relationship in which ecological systems and human societies interact. For more than 55 years, CHEC has delivered education, advocacy, and policy publications, encouraged high-level partnerships, and funded community-led initiatives that create real, local impact.

Our projects span Australia and the Pacific (Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia), Barbados, Bangladesh, Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, The Gambia, Ghana, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Kenya, Malta, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and the United Kingdom. You can explore our recent work here.

CHEC is registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales, and holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), accreditation to COP through the UNFCCC, and accreditation to the Commonwealth Secretariat.

The Role

As Chair, you will oversee and govern the organisation, guided and supported by an active and engaged international Governing Board of senior experts, practitioners, academics, and youth representatives. You will attend six Governing Board meetings a year, working closely with the Honorary Treasurer, Secretary, and other Trustees and Governing Board members to ensure CHEC has a clear vision, mission, and strategic direction — while upholding the highest standards of corporate governance.

Key details:

●      Time commitment: 15–20 hours per month

●      Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable travel expenses covered)

●      Location: UK-based; hybrid, with some in-person attendance at Governing Board meetings and events

●      Deadline: 1st September 2026

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking a candidate with proven leadership experience in international development and at least five years' experience on the governing board of a UK charity, with a strong understanding of governance principles. A passion for sustainable development, and for practices that champion the environment and respect gender, youth, and diverse perspectives, is essential — as is a commitment to the purpose and value of the Commonwealth of Nations in the 21st century.

Excellent networking and communication skills are also key, along with a willingness to attend conferences such as CHOGM and COP to help maximise CHEC's impact on the world stage.

How to Apply

Applications should include a CV, a covering letter, and two references, and should be sent to secretary@checinternational.org. Applications and interviews will be organised on a rolling basis, so we encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible ahead of the 1st September 2026 deadline.

Full details of the role, responsibilities, and candidate requirements are available in our Chair advert.

We look forward to welcoming a new Chair who will help guide CHEC's continued work in building a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future across the Commonwealth. 🌍