Head of Governance

Action for Children

Home based, with some travel as required

  • Location Home based, with some travel as required
  • Sector Not For Profit
  • Client Action for Children
  • Job Type Permanent
  • Salary/Remuneration c. £70,000
  • Reference GSe125611
  • Closing Date 09:00, Monday 13th October 2025

Are you a strategic governance leader who thrives on purpose and impact? At Action for Children, we believe every child and young person should have a safe and happy childhood - and we’re looking for a Head of Governance who shares that belief and can help us deliver it.

This is a unique opportunity to lead governance in one of the UK’s most established children’s charities. You’ll work closely with our Chair of the Board and Chief Executive to ensure our governance structures are not only compliant, but empowering - supporting effective decision-making and enabling us to deliver life-changing work across the UK.

Why This Role Matters

Governance is at the heart of how we operate. As Head of Governance, you’ll act as Company Secretary for Action for Children and its subsidiaries, ensuring our Board and committees function effectively and in line with best practice. You’ll be a trusted advisor to senior leaders, helping us navigate complexity with clarity, integrity and confidence.

You’ll also lead a small, dedicated governance team, and play a key role in shaping our governance culture - one that’s inclusive, transparent and aligned with our values.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for someone who is:

  • ICSA qualified (or equivalent), with significant post-qualification experience in a senior governance role
  • Experienced in charity law, regulatory compliance, and governance frameworks
  • A confident communicator, able to engage and influence senior stakeholders and support effective Board and committee operations
  • Highly organised, with a strong track record in planning, minute-taking, and maintaining audit trails
  • A people leader, with experience managing staff and fostering inclusive, high-performing teams
  • Committed to equity and inclusion, and passionate about embedding these principles into governance structures and culture

Why Join Us?

Action for Children has been supporting children and families for over 150 years. Today, we’re a modern, mission-driven organisation with bold ambitions and a deep commitment to social justice.

We offer flexible working, a strong focus on wellbeing, and a culture that values collaboration, compassion and integrity. You’ll be joining a team that’s passionate about making a difference, and proud of the impact we make.

We know that great candidates come from all backgrounds. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply - you could be just who we’re looking for.

For a confidential discussion please contact Oliver Startup (oliver.startup@gatenbysanderson.com) or Liz Dean (liz.dean@gatenbysanderson.com)

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