1st February 2023
VACANCY: Charity Chair at Brogdale
Commitments: 24 days throughout the year
Location: Faversham, Kent
Start: Immediate
Salary: Unpaid, expenses considered.
Brogdale Collections in Kent was founded as a Charity in April 2008 to provide the public with access to and information about the National Fruit Collection at Brogdale Farm. This is the most comprehensive and largest collection of temperate fruit varieties in the world. It is unique amongst collections in that the trees are cultivated to bear fruit, rather than just be available to provide graft wood and research.
The National Fruit Collection is funded by Defra as part of international programs for conserving genetic diversity for the future. It is curated by the University of Reading, and the day-to-day management is sub-contracted. Funding is only for the maintenance and research of the Collection on a scientific basis. Hence without Brogdale Collections, the Collection would be on a closed site with no public access or engagement.
We engage with the public through activities including Festivals and events, guided tours, education visits, courses, and fruit sales.
Our key areas of focus are education, horticulture, the environment, diet, and health.
We are now seeking to fill a vacancy, and looking to recruit a chair that demonstrates the following criteria:
- Expertise in providing strong leadership at a senior level, including chairing groups with diverse skills and experience to deliver consensus.
- Expertise in analysing and interpreting detailed information such as statistical and financial data and information on legal, fundraising, policy, and HR matters and drawing appropriate conclusions.
- Able to motivate and communicate effectively, to command the respect of others, to challenge and engage courteously particularly those of opposing views, facilitating agreement across a wide range of perspectives and attitudes.
- A background in horticulture, visitor attractions, or heritage sites advantageous
Appointment
This position will provide an influential and intellectually stimulating challenge for the right individual, who will contribute to the future of Brogdale Collections. As Chair of a small but committed board of trustees, you will bring your expertise, alongside a high degree of analytical ability, strong communication skills, and, ideally, an appreciation of our key values.
The time commitment for this position is approximately 24 days per year, for which there is no remuneration however expenses for traveling will be considered.
Anyone interested in applying should contact Tony Hillier, Vice Chair, via email – tonyhillier815@gmail.com
