Independent Chair of Trustees – Royal College of Physicians
Leading Modern Governance at a Historic Institution
The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) is seeking an exceptional individual to become the Chair of its Board of Trustees, providing strategic leadership to one of the world’s most prestigious professional membership bodies. This is an unparalleled opportunity to guide the RCP as it adapts to the challenges and opportunities of the modern healthcare environment.
About the RCP:
With a mission to improve patient care, advance medical education and influence healthcare policy, the RCP plays a vital role in representing doctors and addressing contemporary challenges in medicine. Operating with an annual budget of £40 million, the RCP has its headquarters in London and Liverpool and smaller regional offices supporting its global membership.
About the Role:
The Chair of the Board of Trustees will oversee the RCP’s governance at a pivotal moment, driving modernisation while maintaining its rich traditions. As Chair, you will lead the Board of Trustees and work closely with the RCP Council and executive team to ensure the delivery of the RCP’s charitable objectives. This includes guiding the implementation of governance reforms based on The King’s Fund independent learning review, fostering collaboration across stakeholders, and supporting the RCP’s efforts to influence healthcare policy and workforce development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Chair Board of Trustees meetings, ensuring inclusive and transparent decision-making.
- Provide strategic leadership, supporting the development and implementation of the RCP’s vision and strategy.
- Ensure sound financial governance and compliance with charity law and other relevant regulations.
- Collaborate with the president, RCP Council, and executive team to maintain strong working relationships.
We are seeking candidates with:
- Experience of chairing at board level in a complex organisation.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to foster collaboration and consensus.
- Expertise in charity governance and financial management.
- A passion for healthcare and a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Commitment:
The Board of Trustees meets 5 times a year: four full board meetings and one budget meeting. In addition, the chair will be expected to spend time meeting with senior officers and executive team members to ensure good working relationships are maintained and the responsibilities of the role are fulfilled. Trustees are also invited to the annual general meeting of fellows (Comitia), as observers. Whilst the time commitment may be irregularly spaced, on average, it is estimated that the time commitment will equate to one day a month. Most meetings are held virtually but some travel to London, and less frequently, Liverpool, will be required.
Remuneration:
This is a voluntary position. Expenses incurred while attending meetings will be reimbursed per RCP policy.
Timeline:
A Q&A webinar session will be hosted by the RCP, where they will share further insights and answer any additional questions you may have. Please register your interest in attending this webinar with your consultant and we will send you a link: on Tuesday 21st January, 6pm.
Application deadline: Monday 3rd February 2025
First round interview: w/c 24th February 2025
Final interviews: w/c 3rd March 2025
How to apply:
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to the RCP on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to seniorappointments@charitypeople.co.uk and request a candidate pack. You can also find the pack here. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala on 07563 030595 or fabrice@charitypeople.co.uk
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.
Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of 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 know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities with which we work.
