Lead transformative change in maternity care as Chair of Birthrights
Birthrights
Location: UK-wide (Remote with occasional in-person meetings)
Type: Voluntary (Expenses Paid)
Time Commitment: Approx. 2 days/month, with flexibility during onboarding
Champion human rights, anti-oppression, and inclusive leadership
Birthrights is the UK’s leading voice on human rights in pregnancy and childbirth. As the organisation enters a pivotal phase of transformation, with a new CEO joining in November and a bold vision for community-led governance, they are seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a values-driven organisation committed to anti-racism, systemic change, and inclusive leadership in maternity care. You’ll support a passionate team and a diverse, engaged Board to deliver Birthrights’ mission and shape a new model of governance rooted in justice and accountability.
Why This Role Matters
As Chair, you will:
* Provide strategic leadership and clarity across the Board.
* Champion anti-oppression and community-rooted governance.
* Support the CEO during a critical leadership transition.
* Foster inclusive, transparent decision-making and trustee development.
* Represent Birthrights externally with funders, partners, and policymakers.
* Help build a governance model that reflects Birthrights’ values and can inspire sector-wide change.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a transformative leader with:
* Senior leadership experience in charity, public, or grassroots organisations.
* Deep commitment to anti-racism, anti-oppression, and human rights.
* Strong facilitation and coordination skills.
* Experience navigating organisational change with empathy and clarity.
* Ability to build consensus and support trustee development.
Desirable qualities include:
* Previous Chair or senior governance experience.
* Understanding of maternity care, health justice, or related fields.
* Experience in legal, governance, or charity regulation.
* Lived experience of marginalisation or systemic injustice.
What You’ll Gain
* A defining role in shaping inclusive leadership in the charity sector.
* The opportunity to support systemic change in maternity care.
* A platform to advocate for human rights and anti-oppression.
* A collaborative, reflective, and passionate organisational culture.
Recruitment Timeline
Application deadline – 5pm Friday 5th December 2025
How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as recruitment advisor to Birthrights on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to seniorappointments@charitypeople.co.uk and request a candidate pack.
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Fabrice Yala on 07563 030595 or via email.
We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. If you require any assistance or adjustment to make the application process work for you, please let us know.
Please mention ACEVO Jobs when applying.
Charity People is a forward-thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g., age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.