Chair of Trustees

Koestler Arts is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board as we continue our work unlocking hope, talent and potential in the lives of people in the criminal justice system. 

A national charity, based just outside HM Prison Wormwood Scrubs in East Acton, London, we run the Koestler Awards, a post-release arts mentoring scheme, prison arts membership, family engagement work, and a programme of exhibitions and events delivered in partnership with organisations including Southbank Centre, Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, and Tramway. 

Our Board of 11 Trustees, including two Vice-Chairs, brings together expertise from the arts, criminal justice and business sectors, and meets four times a year (two online, two in person). 

The Chair works closely with the Vice-Chairs, fellow Trustees and our CEO to provide strategic leadership, ensure strong governance, and champion the organisation's mission externally. 

What we're looking for

• Senior leadership experience gained in the criminal justice sector 
• Demonstrable board-level leadership experience 
• A strong commitment to Koestler Arts' mission and values, including social justice, creativity and inclusion 
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to build consensus 
• A good understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities 

Experience in arts and culture, lived experience-led practice, fundraising or public policy would be an advantage, as would an active network that could support our reach and partnerships. 

See the full job description for further details.

Time Commitment

Approximately one day a month, including quarterly Board meetings (2 online and 2 in-person in our London office), regular meetings with the CEO, and occasional committee work or external representation. 

The role is unpaid, though reasonable expenses are reimbursed. 

The Chair is typically appointed for a three-year term, renewable twice. 

We are committed to building a diverse Board and particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and from groups currently under-represented in charity governance.