We’re looking for a new Chairperson to join us in 2026!
Ealing Wildlife Group (EWG) is looking for a new Chairperson to lead the future of the group now that our outgoing Chair, Sean McCormack, has decided to step down from this leadership role at our AGM in May 2026, after a tenure of 10 years.
Your mission? To lead, inspire and facilitate our Board and team of officers and project managers to continue the award winning work that EWG has delivered over the past decade through our 3 Cs ethos: Community, Conservation, Collaboration.
What you don’t need to do? You don’t need to do everything Sean does, or did in the last ten years. In fact, he will be remaining in EWG as our Conservation and Rewilding Officer, just stepping down from the Board. So scaling ladders checking owl boxes, managing our Beaver and Harvest Mouse reintroduction projects, dangling over the 10th floor ledge of Ealing hospital to collect Peregrine chicks for ringing, running bat walks…that’s all covered. We just want a new Chair do to typical Chairperson duties, without the added extras.
For governance reasons alone, Sean wants to pass the leadership role to fresh new talent (or exsiting talent within the group) after ten years of EWG with a single leader at the helm, and also to future proof EWG as a leading community and volunteer led conservation group in London. He’ll be there along with our talented team to guide and advise the new Chair if they need help, ecological advice, introduction to key contacts or long term strategy advice.
Ideally you’ll have some experience on the voluntary and nature conservation or environmental sector, but we are open to all applicants with relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
An initial commitment of two years would be ideal to get stuck in and develop future strategy, but all is flexible. This voluntary role offers flexible working and a chance to shape the future of urban biodiversity. Interested?
Apply below with your CV and cover letter. Deadline for applications is Friday 10th April 2026. Role description here:
Job Description: Chairperson – Ealing Wildlife Group
Role title: Chairperson
Organisation: Ealing Wildlife Group (EWG)
Reports to: EWG Board, Officer committee and members
Location: Ealing, West London (Hybrid – meetings/events in person, some remote coordination)
Term: Voluntary role, minimum commitment of 1–2 years ideally
About Ealing Wildlife Group
EWG is a volunteer-led Constituted Community Group organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing local biodiversity, engaging the public with nature, and promoting coexistence with urban wildlife. We deliver projects ranging from habitat restoration and species reintroduction to education, campaigning, and community events.
Purpose of the Role
The Chairperson provides leadership and direction for the EWG Board, Officer committee and wider group. They ensure the organisation stays true to its mission, operates effectively, and continues to grow as a vibrant and inclusive community for wildlife and people.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Governance
- Lead the group in setting strategic priorities, goals, and policies.
- Ensure good governance, transparency, and accountability in line with charitable and community group best practice.
- Act as a spokesperson and ambassador for EWG, representing the group with partners, funders, local authorities, and the public.
Group Management
- Chair monthly team meetings and biannual Board meetings effectively, ensuring everyone has a voice and decisions are made collaboratively.
- Work closely with other officers (Secretary, Treasurer, Project Leads) to oversee group operations and projects.
- Support succession planning, recruitment, and development of volunteers and future leaders.
Advocacy and Partnerships
- Build relationships with local councils, conservation bodies, schools, and community groups.
- Champion EWG’s campaigns, conservation projects, and events in the local area and beyond.
- Seek opportunities for collaboration and funding that align with the group’s aims.
Community and Engagement
- Inspire and motivate volunteers and members to take part in projects and activities.
- Uphold EWG’s values of inclusivity, accessibility, and community spirit.
- Ensure EWG maintains a strong public presence through media, social channels, and events.
Person Specification
Essential
- Passion for wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and community engagement.
- Strong leadership, facilitation, and communication skills.
- Experience of chairing meetings or leading teams.
- Ability to build consensus, manage differing views, and make clear decisions.
- Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and positive community impact.
Desirable
- Knowledge of local or urban wildlife issues.
- Experience in governance of a charity, CIC, or community group.
- Fundraising, campaigning, or advocacy experience.
- Existing networks with conservation, local government, or community organisations.
Time Commitment
- Approximately 4-8 hours per week, including chairing monthly committee meetings, attending occasional events, and liaising with committee members.
- Attendance at major EWG events, campaigns, and fundraising initiatives.
What We Offer
- A chance to lead one of London’s most dynamic grassroots wildlife groups.
- The opportunity to make a real difference for nature and people in Ealing.
- A supportive community of passionate volunteers and experts.
- Experience in governance, leadership, and conservation project management.
To apply, please fill in your details, and upload your CV and cover letter using this form:
