Asylum Welcome is seeking a new Chair of Trustees

Can you help lead our organisation in an increasingly challenging political climate for the people we support?

Asylum Welcome is a well-established local charity offering a wide range of support to people seeking asylum, refugees and vulnerable migrants in and around Oxford. Our services include advice, visits, legal support, education, help into employment and practical assistance such as securing free bus passes.

We have a strong and capable Board with a wide-ranging skill set and are now looking for a Chair who can provide clear leadership and a collaborative approach.

As an organisation, we are committed to reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of our Oxfordshire community in our governance as well as in our work. We particularly welcome expressions of interest from people of all ages and backgrounds.

About the role

As Chair, you will play a key role in enabling Asylum Welcome to continue supporting people to rebuild their lives in safety. This is an opportunity to use your professional skills and experience to make a meaningful difference.

The role is currently shared by two Co-Chairs who will be retiring as Trustees after many years of service. A job-share arrangement will be considered.

This is an unpaid voluntary role. Travel expenses for meetings can be reimbursed.

The Board meets 6–8 times a year (a mixture of online and in-person meetings), currently in the early evening on Thursdays. Dates are agreed a year in advance.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

  • Experience of leadership

  • Commitment to the aims and values of Asylum Welcome

  • Tact and diplomacy

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Strong facilitation skills

  • Impartiality, fairness and discretion

  • Empathy for the challenges of leading a highly diverse, largely volunteer-based organisation in a complex and topical field

How to apply

For full details, please see the role description.

To apply, email your CV and a short covering letter (maximum 1–2 pages) explaining why you would be suitable for this role and how you meet the person specification to:

trustees@asylum-welcome.org

Deadline: Friday 29th May
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and we may close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.

Find out more

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please email Val Johnson, Co-Chair of Trustees, at the address above.