Role Title: Board Chair Reports to: Northamptonshire CFA Membership Direct Reports: CEO The Board Chair is responsible for providing leadership to the Board of Directors and ensuring the effective governance of the Northamptonshire County Football Association ('the Association'). The Chair holds the Board accountable for the Association's strategic performance, providing inclusive leadership and ensuring compliance with governance best practices. The Chair also serves as an ambassador for the Association, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, including The FA, local football communities, and external partners. The CEO reports to the Board through the Chair, who is responsible for overseeing the CEO's performance and professional development. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Governance and Leadership: Provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring clarity of purpose and direction. Ensure the Board maintains a clear division between governance responsibilities and operational management. Lead the Board in setting, reviewing, and approving the Association's strategic plan, financial plan, and annual budget. Monitor and evaluate the Association's performance against strategic objectives. Oversee risk management, ensuring effective processes for financial, operational, and reputational risks. Uphold high standards of governance, ensuring compliance with The FA's regulatory framework and the Companies Act (2006). Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and inclusivity within the Board. Ensure the Association adheres to safeguarding requirements and promotes best practices in safeguarding. Board Management and Development Set the agenda for Board meetings in collaboration with the CEO. Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring that all Directors contribute meaningfully to discussions. Evaluate the performance of the Board and its individual Directors, supporting their development. Appoint Chairs for Board committees in consultation with members. Ensure succession planning and Board development to maintain an effective leadership team. Promote continuous learning and professional development opportunities for Board members. CEO Performance and Support Manage the CEO's performance, conducting regular reviews and providing professional support. Act as a mentor and coach to the CEO, facilitating leadership growth and operational excellence. Address any concerns raised by the CEO and ensure a healthy working relationship between the Board and executive leadership. Stakeholder Engagement and Representation Act as the primary representative of the Association at FA meetings, local football events, and external engagements. Build and maintain effective relationships with The FA, sponsors, grassroots football clubs, and other key stakeholders. Champion the Association's role in the local football ecosystem, promoting positive engagement with the community. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Lead the Board in setting and maintaining EDI objectives aligned with The FA's governance framework. Ensure diverse and inclusive representation within Board decision-making and strategy development. Foster a culture where equality, diversity, and inclusion are embedded in the Association's policies and practices. PERSON SPECIFICATION Essential Experience Leadership experience at Board level, preferably within sports governance or non-profit sectors. Demonstrated success in strategic planning, risk management, and financial oversight. Strong understanding of corporate governance, compliance, and regulatory responsibilities. Experience in chairing meetings, ensuring balanced and productive discussions. Desirable Experience Previous experience as a Chair, Vice-Chair, or Director in a sports association or charitable organisation. Understanding of grassroots football structures and governance. Background in business development, stakeholder engagement, or public relations. Experience in recruiting, mentoring, and developing Board members. Essential Skills and Knowledge Strong strategic leadership and decision-making skills. Ability to challenge, debate, and guide discussions constructively. Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Knowledge of the Companies Act (2006) and corporate governance best practices. Understanding of safeguarding requirements and FA governance frameworks. Proficiency in digital communication and Board management tools. Desirable Skills and Knowledge Familiarity with employment law, GDPR, and risk management in a governance context. Knowledge of customer engagement strategies and community outreach. Experience in financial planning, fundraising, and investment strategies. Estimated Time Commitment: Expected minimum time commitment of 2-3 days per month which will include attendance at Board Meetings (typically 2 hours), Council & Sub Committee Mtgs, FA meetings and attending local football matches. All meetings are generally held in person unless advised otherwise. HOW TO APPLY The recruitment process is being undertaken by Inclusive Boards on behalf of Northamptonshire Football Association. If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following by 11.59pm on 13/04/2025: A detailed CV, setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role for which you're applying and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed. Details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent Please visit www.inclusiveboards.co.uk to apply online or send your CV and cover letter to Northantsinclusiveboards.co.uk. To find out more, see the attached pack. You can also email Northantsinclusiveboards.co.uk or call 0207 267 8369. Documents northants-fa-chair-information-pack-2025-pdf.pdf (5.38 MB)