Trustee & Chairperson Role

The Trust supports creative skills development in the poetry sector and in its community, extending the impact of poet Charles Causley. Work includes the annual Launceston Poetry Festival, which has developed a reputation for assembling the foremost poets nationwide.

This is an opportunity to help lead and shape our development at an important time; bringing strong skills to this voluntary role as we plan and build. You will be passionate about the worlds of poetry and literature, community arts, and opportunities for children and young people, bringing leadership experience in these fields. You will have exceptional connections and vision. We encourage applications from everyone regardless of background, and we are seeking to actively recruit people from marginalised communities (the Global Majority, LGQTQIA+ community etc.).

The Chair is responsible for the Trust’s governance and strategic vision, and works closely with the Director and Trustees, including the Board Secretary, to deliver them. The Chair will convene and lead quarterly Board meetings, which take place four times a year in a combination of online and face-to-face (in Cornwall). The Chair is expected to join one or more of Trust sub-committees, and to make visits to Launceston, including co-hosting the Launceston Poetry Festival each year. Sub-committees include fundraising or Festival development. Chairs serve a term of 3 years, with the possibility of reappointment for a second.

Candidates should have experience in these areas:

– Charity Development and Philanthropic Giving

– Arts and Heritage Sector Finance and Funding

– Governance and Leadership

– Community Engagement and Development