Chair of the Governing Board

The Role

The Chair of the Governing Board plays a critical role in overseeing the strategic direction of SAMS, ensuring that the organisation achieves its mission of advancing marine science for a sustainable future. As the leader of the Governing Board, the Chair works closely with the Board and Executive Team to provide leadership, guidance, and accountability, ensuring that SAMS remains a leader in all that it does.

This position is voluntary but provides a unique opportunity to influence marine science on a global scale, collaborating with top scientists, policymakers, and institutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Governance
• Board Management
• Strategic Direction
• Fundraising & Advocacy
• Financial Oversight
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Risk Management & Compliance

Key Attributes & Skills:

• Strategic Vision: Strong understanding of the landscape of research, sustainability and policy in a scientific or related field.
• Leadership Experience: Proven experience in leading organisations or boards, with a track record of effective decision-making, governance, and fostering collaboration at senior levels.
• Passion for the Environment: A keen interest in environmental sustainability, and the role of research in addressing global challenges.
• Communication & Advocacy Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire a range of stakeholders.
• Financial Acumen: An understanding of financial management and the ability to oversee budgets and funding strategies effectively.
• Collaborative Approach: Ability to work in a collaborative, consensus-driven environment, both within the Board and with the Executive Team, and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: A commitment to ensuring diversity and inclusion is embedded in SAMS’ work, both within its governance structures and its research practices.

Qualifications:

• Senior leadership or governance experience; ideally in research, academia, non-profit, or public sector organisations; or if from a commercial background an understanding of these types of organisations.
• Demonstrable knowledge of marine science or related environmental fields is desirable but not essential.
• A strong professional network within relevant sectors would be advantageous.

Benefits of the Role:

• Impact: Lead the strategic direction of a world-renowned institution and make a significant contribution to marine science, sustainability, and policy.
• Networking: Access to a global network of researchers, policymakers, and leaders in the marine and environmental sectors.
• Personal Development: Gain valuable experience and exposure to senior leadership in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.