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Chairman of Trustees
the wildheart trust
  • Salary
  • Location Hampshire, South East (On-site)
  • Job Type Voluntary
  • Category Trustees , Governance
  • Sectors Animal
  • Job Reference :

Job Description

This is a rare opportunity to make a real difference to animal welfare and conservation within a rewarding and stimulating environment.  THE WILDHEART TRUST - home of the Isle of Wight Zoo is a newly formed charity with a small, committed board of trustees and a clear strategic mission to provide a life-long home to rescued big cats as well as providing a loving home for other animal residents. We aim to engage, involve and empower people from both the heart and the head to help us in the global challenge to make the world a better place for all animals. The Trust is committed to revolutionise the traditional zoo experience and we believe that a united effort will secure one of the best small zoos in the world. The Trust will also continue to develop its charitable objectives towards animal welfare, rescue and conservation around the world

The Wildheart Trust is now looking to appoint a Chairman to lead the trustees in their governance of this small independent zoo into a recognised and respected zoological charity through its next phase of development. The Board of Trustees seeks an experienced Chairman who can demonstrate seniority at board level (past or present) with a proven record of committee and governance work to support a small (and growing) group of dedicated and professional trustees and to provide direction and support for the Chief Executive Officer.

A track record of significant achievement in either the business, public or not-for-profit sectors is essential. Visitor attraction/zoological experience would be desirable but is not critical. The successful candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills and will have demonstrable skills in governance with the vision and ability to assimilate and interpret complex information being essential as is experience of financial management, business development particularly retail and catering, strategic planning and implementation, change management and income generation at leadership level.  Ideally you will have a proven knowledge of legacy and fundraising streams. You will also be an effective team leader whilst also understanding the importance of being a team player.

You must have drive and passion to make things happen and it is crucial that you have a strong empathy with the aims and values of the The Wildheart Trust.  

The Board currently meets 10 times a year on the Isle of Wight or the mainland.

Closing date: 1st February 2019

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.