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The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) gives old buildings a future - and we’re looking for an experienced strategic thinker and inspiring leader to be our new Chair of Trustees in our 150th anniversary year and beyond.
As Chair, you'll guide us at Board level, champion the SPAB Approach, attend meetings, support our activities and be an ambassador for the country’s oldest heritage organisation.
About Us
We help people to look after old buildings, making them fit for the future while keeping their historic character. We do this through casework, technical research and advice, education and training, awards, outreach and events across the UK and Ireland.
Our work is underpinned by a conservation philosophy that encourages people to preserve historic fabric. The SPAB Approach provides a well-tested basis for practical decision-making in building conservation. We also encourage excellence in new design to enrich and complement the built historic environment.
Founded in 1877 by William Morris and his fellow campaigners, the SPAB continues to advocate for old buildings almost 150 years later.
About the Role
We're looking for someone...
Able to direct the business of the Board efficiently and effectively
Skilled in developing and nurturing productive working relationships
Willing to challenge and introduce new ways of thinking and acting
Nurturing of positive engagement amongst staff, volunteers and members
Committed to the SPAB Approach to the conservation of built heritage
A member of the SPAB
Experience Required
You will be...
Familiar with charity or corporate governance
Capable of high-level advocacy across a range of media
Successful at fundraising and/or entrepreneurial experience
Able to deliver growth and change management in an organisation
Competent in difficult situations and with resolving conflict
Responsibilities
Provide leadership to the Board in its strategic and policy roles
Chair the Board and other meetings to facilitate positive discussion and development
Ensure the Board fulfils its legal and charitable responsibilities for the governance of the SPAB
Establish a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive and Honorary Treasurer
Reviewing the performance of the Chief Executive and Board
Key Tasks
Campaigner: for the SPAB Approach and the conservation of built heritage
Strategist: implementing and refining the SPAB’s strategy for 2025-30 by responding to emerging opportunities and risks
Fundraiser: supporting the SPAB in fulfilling its fundraising needs
Networker: making connections and influencing at a senior level (not just in the heritage sector)
Publicist: raising the professional and public profile of the SPAB and its members in the UK and overseas
Teambuilder: developing Board members and staff
Organiser: facilitating Board processes and leading on improving governance practice
What We Offer
The Chair’s role is the most senior voluntary position within the SPAB
The postholder will have the opportunity to lead the UK’s oldest building conservation organisation into its 150th Anniversary year and beyond
The position of SPAB Chair is highly regarded within the heritage sector and elsewhere
The post is voluntary and unremunerated, but reasonable expenses can be claimed
How to Apply
Please submit a CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter (maximum two pages) clearly explaining why you believe you are well suited to the role by Friday 21 August 2026, 5pm.
Interviews will be held at 37 Spital Square, London, E1 6DY in early-mid September 2026 (date tbc).
Equal Opportunities
We particularly welcome applications from people with backgrounds underrepresented in building conservation.
Chair of Trustees • London, England, GB
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