Chair of Trustees
Norfolk Ornithologists' Association
Volunteer Opportunity: Chair of Trustees, Norfolk Ornithologists’ Association
- Location: mostly from home but would require attendance at face-to-face Trustees’ meetings in north Norfolk several times a year.
- Time Commitment: Typically, 2-4 days per month
- Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Are you an experienced leader with a passion for birds and nature, and an interest in conservation and the environment?
Norfolk Ornithologists’ Association is seeking a dedicated and strategic Chair of Trustees to lead our registered charity into its next chapter of growth and impact.
About Us
We are a charity (registered charity no 267670) dedicated to promoting, encouraging and co-ordinating the scientific study of birds by operating bird observatories and nature reserves in Norfolk. We collect information via bird ringing and migration watches which helps us to monitor how birds are coping year to year. Our work also enables people to encounter birds and other wildlife in a friendly and personal way. The results of the Association’s work are published yearly in its annual reports.
About Our Members
We have around 1,000 members. Members come from Norfolk and further afield, including the rest of the UK, Europe and North America. Members range from wildlife scientists through to holiday visitors and all are welcome to watch bird ringing and moth trapping take place. Our members are encouraged to get involved in wildlife monitoring, and those that do make a vital contribution to NOA’s work.
The Role
As Chair, you will provide inclusive leadership to our Board of Trustees, ensuring the Association complies with its constitution and the law, and drive forward our strategic vision. The Trustees’ meetings take place 10 times a year, alternating between in person and remote meetings. You will chair board and general meetings, act as a critical friend and support to our Warden, Assistant Warden and volunteers, and represent the Association to stakeholders and the wider public.
What We Are Looking For
We are looking for a collaborative leader who can bring:
- Governance Experience: Previous experience on a charity board or equivalent leadership role.
- Strategic Vision: Ability to guide long-term planning and secure the Association’s sustainability.
- Passion for Birds and Nature: A strong interest in bird conservation, ecology, or environmental issues.
- Communication Skills: Excellent networking and stakeholder management abilities.
- Familiarity with the Charity Sector: Understanding of charity governance, compliance, and fundraising is highly desirable.
Why Join Us?
This is a rewarding opportunity to shape the strategic direction of the only accredited bird observatory in Norfolk. You will work alongside a dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and fellow trustees who share your passion for nature.
About Norfolk Ornithologists' Association (NOA)
The NOA is a conservation organisation dedicated to the scientific study of birds and other wildlife, with four visitor reserves in Norfolk.
We collect information which helps us to monitor and understand how birds and wildlife are coping year to year. Our work also enables people to encounter wildlife in a friendly and personal way.
The NOA is a conservation organisation dedicated to the scientific study of birds and other wildlife, with four visitor reserves in Norfolk. We collect information which helps us to monitor and understand how birds and wildlife are coping year to year. Our work also enables people to encounter wildlife in a friendly and personal way.
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