Chair of the Board of Trustees

Closing date: July 10th, 2026

This is more than a leadership role; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of a community. At YMCA Wirral, we believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive, to feel safe, and to build a life filled with possibility. But creating that future takes courageous leadership.

We are seeking an inspiring Chair of the Board of Trustees to guide our mission, champion our values, and help us drive meaningful, long‑term change across the Wirral and beyond.

About Us

YMCA Wirral sits at the heart of the community, providing life‑changing accommodation, support, and opportunities for young people and adults. We work with individuals facing homelessness, trauma, disadvantage, and exclusion, helping them rebuild stability, confidence, and hope.

Our vision is bold: To create a fairer, safer, more inclusive Wirral where every person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Through trauma‑informed practice, innovative partnerships, and a commitment to social justice, we are strengthening our services, expanding our impact, and building a future where no one is left behind.

The Role

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will be the strategic leader who ensures YMCA Wirral remains strong, accountable, and ambitious. You will guide the Board, support the Chief Executive, and help shape the organisation’s next chapter including governance development, community influence, and long‑term sustainability.

Your leadership will help ensure that the voices of residents, staff, and the wider community are heard, valued, and embedded in everything we do.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead strategic direction champion social mobility, inclusion, and trauma‑informed practice across all areas of the organisation.
  • Strengthen governance ensure the Board operates effectively, transparently, and in line with regulatory expectations.
  • Support senior leadership provide guidance, challenge, and mentorship to the Chief Executive and senior team.
  • Build partnerships nurture relationships with funders, commissioners, community partners, and stakeholders.
  • Champion opportunity drive initiatives that open pathways to housing stability, wellbeing, education, and employment.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who:

  • Bring strong leadership experience from charitable, public, or corporate sectors.
  • Understand governance and can confidently lead a Board.
  • Are committed to tackling inequality and improving life chances for vulnerable people.
  • Communicate with clarity and compassion and can build trusted relationships.
  • Are connected locally or regionally and able to strengthen our influence and reach.

We particularly welcome candidates with lived experience of the issues our communities face, or those who bring diverse perspectives to our Board.

Commitment and Benefits

This is a voluntary position requiring attendance at 6-12 Board meetings per year, each lasting around 1–2 hours, plus occasional additional involvement for strategic or ceremonial duties.

In return, you will:

  • Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a long‑established community organisation.
  • Help break cycles of disadvantage and create real, lasting change.
  • Work alongside passionate trustees, staff, and partners committed to social justice.
  • Leave a legacy that strengthens opportunities for generations to come.

How to Apply

Full Role Description

If you believe in the power of community, fairness, and opportunity — and you’re ready to lead with purpose — we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a short introductory letter outlining your interest and motivation to: nanette@ymcawirral.org.uk by 5pm on the 10th of July