About the Role
We are looking to appoint a new Chair of Trustees. The position has become available following the standing down of the current Chair Russ Lidstone who has been with the charity since 2018.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about improving socioeconomic diversity and inclusion within the creative industry and ideally has lived experience (or significant understanding) of the challenges and opportunities faced by those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
As Chair, you will work closely with Creative Mentor Network’s CEO and team of passionate trustees to ensure the effective governance, leadership and strategy of the charity. You will be a visible advocate for Creative Mentor Network and use your knowledge, networks and expertise to support the charity in meeting its strategic objectives.
The Chair of Trustees will:
Lead and inspire the Board: chair meetings and ensure that inclusive dialogue leads to effective decision making
Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review risks and associated opportunities and be able to support and manage ways to mitigate the former and maximise the latter
Set high governance standards and ensure these are in line with the requirements of the Charity Commission
Work closely with and support the charity's CEO; meet for regular 1-1s and carry out yearly appraisal
Oversee the performance of the Board and its members; ensure trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities
Work closely with the CEO to recruit and onboard new trustees
Ensure that the Board operates within its charitable objectives and provides a clear strategic direction for the Charity
Be an advocate for the charity; represent Creative Mentor Network across a range of networks to help build presence and visibility
Time Commitment
The appointment will be made initially for three years, the chair is eligible for two consecutive terms (six years in total)
The role requires the equivalent of around 1.5 days per month, mostly remote
Board meetings are hosted quarterly at Creative Mentor Network’s office in London Victoria (18:00-20:00)
Like most Trustee roles, this role is offered on a voluntary basis. Reasonable expenses incurred conducting charity business will be reimbursed.
The Chair and all trustees are expected to attend the charity’s events such as showcases and programme launches.
We would love to hear from you if you feel you have the time and expertise. Please apply by sending your CV and a short supporting statement outlining how you feel your skills and experience could be of benefit to the organisation and your motivation for applying for the role to recruitment@creativementornetwork.org.
Requirements
Strategy
Proven leadership experience at a senior level, either serving on or attending board meetings, within a comparable organisation.
Previous experience successfully scaling an organisation of similar size and geographic scope, preferably within the charity sector.
Demonstrated ability to diversify revenue streams in either the charity or commercial sector.
Scrutiny
Strong financial acumen with proven experience in charity or commercial settings.
In-depth understanding of board governance and risk management within charity or commercial sectors.
Support
A deep passion for socioeconomic diversity and a commitment to improving opportunities for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.
Strong experience that demonstrates capability to effectively partner with and mentor the CEO through the organisation’s next stage of growth.
Exceptional leadership skills that inspire and motivate the board, staff, and external stakeholders.
Sponsorship
Excellent communication and networking skills, with the ability to advocate for the organisation.
A natural ambassador, capable of championing CMN’s mission at key events.
Desirable
Experience as a Chair or member of a Board of Trustees.
Experience in the creative industries, with an understanding of the sector's unique challenges.
A strong understanding of CMN’s mission and the community it serves.
A solid grasp of the current challenges facing the charity sector.
Knowledge of the UK education system, grants and funding landscape, and creative industries.
About the Company
At Creative Mentor Network, we believe in a future where there is no class ceiling in the UK's creative industries.
We focus on socioeconomic diversity, supporting young people aged 16-25 from lower socioeconomic backgrounds to help them access and thrive in jobs in the creative industry. Our mentoring programmes train professionals in the industry to support young people in our community, and give them the tools that enable them to be inclusive and accessible leaders.
By championing socioeconomic diversity, equity and inclusion we are creating more inclusive workplace cultures and making the industry more accessible for young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. You can find out more about the work we do on our website.
Creative Mentor Network was set up in 2014 and received charitable status in April 2018. Since launch, we have worked with over 1800 young people and the same number of mentors. We have worked with a breadth of creative organisations including; Sony Music, Google, Amazon Prime Video, Meta Soho House and more.
In 2023 we saw significant impact, with 81% of mentees feeling more confident to advocate their professional needs and 83% can identify employers and organisations relevant to their career interests. 97% of mentors understand the barriers to access for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and 91% feel as though they can support them. Our impact is at the heart of what we do.