Overview

Switchback is an award-winning charity supporting young men leaving prison to build stable, rewarding lives they can be proud of. With rising demand for relational resettlement support and a renewed focus on influencing national policy, Switchback sought a new Chair of Trustees to lead the Board through a period of strategic growth and system-level impact.

Our Approach

1. Understanding Switchback’s unique model and governance needs

We shaped a candidate profile centred on collaborative leadership, strong governance experience, alignment with Switchback’s values, and insight into the justice system.

2. Targeted, inclusive and relational search strategy

Over six weeks we deployed a multi-channel search strategy including advertising across mainstream and equity-focused platforms, proactive outreach to more than 235 potential candidates, and a well-attended webinar to provide transparency and support candidate decision-making.

3. Values-led and nuanced assessment process

Our assessment prioritised individuals with deep commitment to Switchback’s purpose, lived or learned experience of the justice system, inclusive leadership capability, and the emotional intelligence needed to lead a diverse and mixed-experience Board.

Outcome

Following a rigorous, values-centred process, Switchback appointed Julie Pal as its new Chair of Trustees. Julie brings significant governance leadership, strong social justice commitment, and the interpersonal skill needed to champion Switchback’s mission during a pivotal period of growth.

Conclusion

This appointment demonstrates the value of relational, inclusive and governance-aware recruitment when working with organisations supporting people affected by the justice system. Charity People are proud to have supported Switchback in appointing a Chair whose empathy, integrity and strategic clarity will strengthen the organisation for the future.