Board Chair & Chair of the HR Committee (Independent Trustee)

ABOUT START NETWORK

START Network’s purpose is to be a catalyst for system-level change that improves the efficiency, effectiveness and ethics of humanitarian action. We do this by working as a network to develop, test & spread new ways of collaborating and resourcing locally led crisis response and anticipation.

Our current membership is made up of nearly 100 local, national and international NGOs based all around the world. We also support 10 national and regional hubs made up of civil society organisations and NGOs as our vehicle for devolving power, resources and accountability.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Start Network Board is seeking a new Chair (Independent Trustee) with prior Board experience to lead the Board with strong strategic oversight and governance. The candidate is also expected to chair the HR committee.

The Chair will play a pivotal role in providing inclusive leadership, ensuring effective governance, and safeguarding the organisation’s mission, values, and financial integrity. The Chair works closely with the CEO, CFOO, Company Secretary, and fellow Trustees to guide Start Network’s strategic direction and support robust risk and financial oversight. The Chair will play a critical role in fostering a collaborative Board culture, supporting the effective delivery of Start Network’s strategic priorities, and representing the organisation externally to key stakeholders.

For further information about the role and person specification and the timeline for the appointment please download the Appointment Details below:

START Network Independent Trustee-Board Chair-Chair of HR Committee

APPOINTMENT TERMS

Location: Flexible

Commitment:

• Trustees will serve a three-year term, extendable to a maximum of two terms. On completion of the first term, a performance evaluation will take place, and with mutual agreement between the trustee and Board-Chair, the second term will be renewed.
• You will be required to attend a minimum of three out of four Board meetings per year, one of which will be face-to-face in London, with the rest being virtual.
• You will also be expected to attend the annual Start Network Assembly meeting and will also be expected to chair the Risk and Compliance committee. The committees meet quarterly and virtually. The Board and committees may also convene additional meetings if necessary. There may also be ad hoc answering of queries or suggestions to the CFOO, Directorate and Head of Assurance.
• Overall, the expected time required by Trustees during the course of the year is between 8-9 days – including time spent preparing for and attending Board and Committee meetings.
• This is an unpaid voluntary role for which reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed, in accordance with Start Network policies.

Successful candidates will be subject to standard trustee vetting checks to ensure they are fit to serve on the Board.

HOW TO APPLY

Closing date: 7^th April 2026

To apply please click ‘Apply Now’ above

Please include the following in your application:

• CV of no more than three (03) pages
• Statement of interest (cover letter) that clearly addresses the following:
• Your suitability for the role
• Your motivation for and ability to serve as a Board member
• Your vision for the START Network going forward

Should you require access to information in a different format to facilitate your application, please contact us via [email protected]

Please name your files as follows: FirstName_Surname_CV_Board Chair

FirstName_Surname_CL_Board Chair

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