Independent Chair - Pride in Place Neighborhood Board
About the role
We are seeking an Independent Chair to lead the Cherrywood Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board.
Cherrywood has secured £20 million of long-term investment through the Government’s Pride in Place programme. This is a major opportunity for local people to shape the future of Cherrywood over the next 10 years. The funding is intended to support positive, lasting change, with decisions shaped directly by the community.
The Chair will act as a champion for Cherrywood bringing people together, listening to different views and ensuring residents are at the heart of decisions about how this investment is used. This is not about one person having all the answers. It is about finding someone who can act as a trusted, fair and proactive convenor for Cherrywood.
The Board will bring together residents, community groups, businesses, councillors and local partners to develop a Pride in Place Plan, setting out a 10-year vision and priorities for the area.
What we are looking for:
Someone who:
Is from, lives in, works in, or has a strong and recent connection to Cherrywood.
Is deeply connected to the community and fiercely committed to making it an even better place to live
Has experience of working with a range of stakeholders including community groups, local authorities, businesses and the voluntary sector
Has experience of governance and board leadership with the ability to provide strategic oversight and ensure strong decision making
Has strong communication and facilitation skills and experience of ensuring that all voices are heard and that Board discussions are collaborative
Has the time and commitment to help establish the Board and guide the development of the Pride in Place Plan.
This is a strategic leadership and convening role, not a day-to-day delivery role.
Key responsibilities:
Lead and chair meetings of the Cherrywood Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board.
Support the recruitment of a diverse Board membership.
Work with residents, community groups, local businesses, councillors, the MP’s office, Rushmoor Borough Council and other partners.
Help ensure meaningful community engagement is at the heart of the programme.
Oversee the development of the Cherrywood Pride in Place Plan.
Support strong governance, transparency and effective decision-making.
Represent the Board externally where required.
Support provided
The Chair will be supported by local elected councillors, the MP’s office and Rushmoor Borough Council.
Rushmoor Borough Council will act as the accountable body for the programme, including financial administration and governance support.
Time commitment
The role will involve a minimum of 4 Board meetings each year, including preparation and follow-up work. There will also be additional development, planning and community engagement sessions.
The role is expected to be more intensive during the first 6 to 12 months, while the Board is being established and the Pride in Place Plan is being developed.
How to apply
Please submit:
A CV.
A short supporting statement of no more than 2 pages.
Your statement should outline:
Your connection to Cherrywood.
Why you are interested in the role.
What skills, experience or personal qualities you would bring.
How you would help ensure the Board is inclusive, collaborative and community-led.
Closing date:31st May 2026
For an informal discussion, please contact: Emma Lamb, Service Manager - Community and Partnerships emma.lamb@rushmoor.gov.uk