Chair of Trustees

Bridge to Unity CIO

Bridge to Unity CIO is seeking an experienced and values-led Chair of Trustees to guide our Board and support the charity as it continues to grow.

We support refugees and displaced families arriving in the UK through Government resettlement schemes, helping people settle, connect, and rebuild their lives within local communities. As our work expands, strong leadership and sustainable funding are central to our future.

This role would suit someone with senior experience in the refugee, migration, or wider social impact sector, and a strong understanding of funding and income generation within charities. Although, not necessary. Passion is key. 

About Bridge to Unity

Bridge to Unity supports individuals and families arriving in the UK through schemes including Homes for Ukraine and Afghan resettlement programmes, as well as those granted refugee status.

Our work focuses on community integration, mental health and wellbeing, peer support, and reducing isolation, while also supporting hosts, volunteers, and local partners. Our approach is trauma-informed, community-led, and rooted in dignity and empathy.

The Role

As Chair, you will:

• Lead the Board of Trustees and ensure effective governance
• Support and work closely with the Co-Directors on strategy, growth, and sustainability
• Help shape funding and income-generation approaches
• Chair board meetings and facilitate open, constructive discussion
• Act as an ambassador for Bridge to Unity with funders, partners, and stakeholders

We Are Particularly Interested in Candidates with:

• Senior leadership or board-level experience within the refugee, migration, or community sector
• Strong experience of charity funding, grants, or income generation
• Knowledge of charity governance, safeguarding, and compliance
• Experience working with statutory bodies or funders
• The ability to balance strategic oversight with empathy and values-led leadership

You do not need to meet every criterion to apply.

Time Commitment

Approximately 4 hours per month on average, with flexibility. At key moments, additional involvement may be helpful, and Chairs who are able to give more time are welcomed.

Practical Details

• Location: UK-wide (meetings usually online or hybrid). We are based in Hampshire, much of our work takes place in this area. 
• Term: 3 years (renewable)
• Remuneration: Voluntary role, reasonable expenses reimbursed

Informal conversations are welcomed prior to application, so please do register your interest today.

Skills

• Experience working in the refugee, migration, or resettlement sector
• Grant writing, funding applications, or fundraising expertise
• Understanding of charity funding landscapes and funder relationships
• Strategic planning and organisational development
• Charity governance and trustee or board-level experience
• Financial oversight, budgeting, or sustainability planning
• Safeguarding knowledge (adults and/or children)
• Mental health, wellbeing, or trauma-informed practice
• Partnership working with local authorities or statutory services
• Community development and engagement
• Monitoring, evaluation, and impact measurement
• Communications, advocacy, or stakeholder engagement

You do not need to have all of the above to apply.