Join the DKC Family – Become our next Chair!
#DKC2026
After an incredible 18 years leading Derby Kids’ Camp, our current Chair, Chris Edwards, will be stepping down from the role in September 2025. As part of our commitment to strong leadership and continuity, Chris will remain involved as a trustee, supporting the committee and ensuring a smooth transition.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone new to step into the role of Chair and help guide the charity into its next chapter. The role will formally start in September 2025, following the next AGM. While it’s not essential, we encourage potential candidates to join us in an observer role during the 2024/25 year to get a feel for how we work.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of something special, we’d love to hear from you.
The closing date for applications is Thursday 1st May 2025. Find out more about the role and how to apply below.
About Derby Kids’ Camp
Derby Kids’ Camp is a volunteer-run charity dedicated to providing free, fun, and transformative residential camping experiences for disadvantaged children in Derby and Derbyshire. For over 50 years, we’ve helped build children’s confidence, create lifelong memories, and give them the chance to enjoy a summer they might otherwise miss out on.
In recognition of our impact, we were recently awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour for volunteer groups in the UK. Our charity is 100% managed and staffed by unpaid volunteers who are passionate about making a difference.
With a strong, experienced team and a secure financial foundation, Derby Kids’ Camp is in a great position to continue thriving. The incoming Chair will join a well-established organisation with a committed community and a bright future ahead.
Role Summary
The Chair provides leadership to the Board of Trustees and supports the operational team to ensure the charity is governed effectively and aligned with its mission. They oversee strategic planning, governance, and sustainability while acting as the key ambassador for Derby Kids’ Camp.
Key Responsibilities
Meeting Leadership
- Chair meetings in an orderly, fair, but firm manner, ensuring all voices are heard.
Strategic Oversight and Governance
- Monitor progress on year plans, ensuring goals and objectives are met.
- Oversee updates to operational and governance documents to maintain compliance.
- Act decisively in emergencies.
Leadership and Mediation
- Motivate and support trustees and volunteers.
- Foster collaboration and support the efforts of individuals and sub-committees.
Advocacy and Public Representation
- Represent Derby Kids’ Camp at events, presentations and meetings, acting as a public face of the charity.
- Build relationships with stakeholders and raise the charity’s profile.
Operational Oversight
- Maintain oversight of all activities to ensure coordination and efficiency.
- Maintain clear communication between trustees, committees and stakeholders.
Person Specification
Experience and Skills
- Proven leadership in a charity, nonprofit or commercial organisation.
- Strong understanding of governance, facilitation and decision-making processes.
- Effective communicator with strong public speaking and interpersonal skills.
- Mediation and collaboration experience.
- Fundraising, advocacy or community engagement experience (desirable).
Personal Attributes
- Passionate about supporting disadvantaged children.
- Organised, decisive and pragmatic.
- Inclusive leadership style with high ethical standards.
- Diplomatic in managing conflicts and communications.
Time Commitment
- Chair Board and general meetings as scheduled (usually monthly).
- Attend events, fundraisers and key activities.
- Estimated time commitment: Around 4 hours a week
What We Offer:
- The opportunity to lead a well-respected, award-winning local Charity with a transformative mission.
- Experience in governance and strategic leadership within the nonprofit sector.
- A chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children across Derby and Derbyshire.
Interested?
To apply for the role of Chair at Derby Kids’ Camp, please submit a CV and covering letter detailing your suitability for the position to our Secretary, Tommy Lowden, via tommy@derbykidscamp.co.uk
If you would like to discuss the role, please do not hesitate in contacting the current Chair, Chris Edwards, via chris@derbykidscamp.co.uk
