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Chair of Board of Directors
The Association of Illustrators (AOI) is seeking an exceptional Chair to lead our Board of Directors. As the foremost professional body for illustration, the AOI has proudly supported and championed the creative industry since 1973. Today, we serve a thriving global community of more than 2,000 members.
Our Organisation and Next Chapter
The AOI stands as a recognised global leader in the illustration sector, combining robust financial management with innovative member services. Under the guidance of our current CEO and outgoing Chair, we have achieved significant milestones:
- Built substantial financial reserves
- Strengthened our advocacy for illustrators' rights
- Established new revenue streams
- Enhanced our industry profile and influence
- Developed comprehensive career support initiatives
We are entering an exciting phase of development, requiring visionary leadership to grow our organisation whilst maintaining excellence in member support. The creative landscape is evolving rapidly, particularly with emerging technologies like AI, and we seek a Chair who can help us navigate these changes strategically.
Position Overview
Working closely with the Board and CEO, the Chair will guide the AOI's strategic direction while ensuring robust governance and sustainable growth.
Key Details:
- Reports to: Board of Directors
- Direct report: Chief Executive Officer
- Location: Somerset House, Central London
- Time commitment: Quarterly board meetings (2 hours each) plus approximately 16 hours monthly for strategic consultation
Remuneration:
£11,000 - £13,000 per annum, comprising of:
- £1,000 PAYE stipend for governance duties
- Up to £12,000 annually in consultancy fees for strategic advisory work
Role Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Vision
- Guide strategic planning processes and implementation in collaboration with CEO and board
- Ensure alignment between commercial growth and social impact
- Foster innovation while maintaining financial sustainability
- Lead the Board in setting and reviewing strategic objectives
- Build consensus around key strategic decisions
Governance and Compliance
- Chair quarterly Board meetings with effectiveness and professionalism
- Ensure the Board fulfils its duties and responsibilities
- Oversee risk management and mitigation strategies
- Monitor organisational performance against strategic objectives
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
Financial Oversight
- Guide financial strategy and sustainability
- Review and approve annual budgets and financial reports
- Ensure appropriate financial controls are in place
- Support the development of new revenue streams
Stakeholder Engagement and External Relations
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships
- Act as an ambassador for the organisation
- Advocate for illustrators' rights and interests
People Leadership
- Provide support to the CEO
- Lead Board recruitment and succession planning
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive Board culture
- Support professional development of Board members
Person Specification
Essential Experience
- Proven senior leadership experience in the creative industries or related sectors
- Track record of successful strategic planning and implementation
- Understanding of governance and financial management
- History of delivering both social and commercial value
Knowledge and Understanding
- Appreciation for the illustration industry and its challenges
- Strong grasp of the creative sector's commercial landscape
- Understanding of not-for-profit governance
- Awareness of emerging technologies and their impact
- Understanding of diversity and inclusion best practices
Leadership Qualities
- Strategic thinker with proven problem-solving abilities
- Excellent chair and facilitation skills
- Strong diplomatic and negotiation abilities
- Ability to build consensus and manage diverse viewpoints
- Commitment to collaborative leadership
How to Apply
To express your interest in this position, please submit:
- A comprehensive CV
- A covering letter explaining your suitability for the role
- Contact details for two professional references (these will only be contacted with your permission)
Send your application by email via the button below by 5pm on 12th May 2025
The AOI is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation. We particularly welcome applications from candidates who are under-represented within the illustration industry. We believe that diversity strengthens our organisation and look forward to hearing from all interested applicants.
If you would like to submit your expression of interest in an alternative format, such as a video recording, please contact us in advance to discuss options.
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Rachel Hill, CEO, at rachel@theaoi.com
