Chair of the Board

Association of Child Psychotherapists

About the Organisation

ACP’s primary task is to raise, maintain and regulate professional standards in relation to Child and Adolescent Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy in the UK, to ensure that the public are protected in relation to Child Psychotherapy delivered by ACP Child Psychotherapists and to support ACP members to achieve and maintain the highest professional practice.

About the role

The Chair of the Board provides overall leadership of the Board of the Association of Child Psychotherapists (ACP), working alongside the CEO, Executive Management Team (EMT), and Board in ensuring the organisation fulfils its mission to uphold professional standards, influence national policy on child mental health, and promote the contribution of Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists to mental health and wellbeing services.

The Chair will lead the Board in setting the strategic direction of the ACP, maintaining high standards of governance, and ensuring that the ACP remains a respected, effective, and inclusive professional body which gathers, listens, and responds to membership voices. 

Responsibilities

Leadership and Governance:

• In collaboration with the CEO, lead the Board in developing and directing the organisation’s strategic plan, which is then operationalised and executed by the CEO.
• Ensure that the ACP complies with its constitution, regulatory requirements, and good governance practice.
• Chair Board and General Meetings effectively, encouraging full participation and clear decision-making.
• Lead on the selection, recruitment, and induction of the Board every 2-4 years or as and when needed.
• Lead the recruitment and management of the Vice Chair.
• Ensure the Board operates with appropriate skill, diversity, and transparency and supports the CEO in upholding these values within the organisation.
• Oversee the Board's performance and ensure effective delivery of its objectives.
• Support the Board in its function to monitor financial sustainability, risk management, and compliance.
• To have an overview of finances of the organisation.
• Promote diversity and equality across all aspects of the organisation’s work. 

Working Relationships:

• Oversees The ACP Board of Directors.
• Oversees the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Vice Chair, carrying out their 360 appraisals. 

Skills, Competencies, Experience & Attributes

Experience & Knowledge Essential Criteria:

• Significant senior leadership experience, ideally at Board or Chair level.
• Proven experience of governance, including working with and leading boards.
• Understanding of strategic planning, organisational development, and performance oversight.
• Experience of working with senior executives (CEO) and supporting accountability.
• Knowledge of financial oversight, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Understanding of the role of professional bodies and membership organisations. 

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong leadership and facilitation skills, with the ability to chair meetings effectively and drive clear decision-making.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to balance long-term vision and operational realities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders.
• Ability to support, challenge, and hold senior leaders to account constructively.
• Sound judgement and decision-making, particularly in complex or sensitive situations.
• Ability to promote collaboration, inclusivity, and transparency at Board level.

Values & Personal Attributes:

• Strong commitment to the mission and values of the ACP.
• Demonstrated commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Integrity, independence, and professionalism.
• Ability to act as an ambassador for the organisation.
• Commitment to listening to and representing the voices of members. Willingness to dedicate the required time and preparation to fulfil the role effectively.

Desirable Criteria:

• Knowledge and experience of child and adolescent mental health, psychotherapy, or related sectors.
• Experience of influencing policy or working with government, NHS, and national bodies.
• Experience of leading organisational change or transformation. Understanding of membership engagement and stakeholder representation. 

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual Leave: 28 days (pro rata)
• Commitment: 1 day per month

Working locations

• Hybrid model, working in the London office and remotely
• Attendance at key meetings required. When necessary, attend evening meetings.

How to apply

• Send C.V and cover letter to [email protected]
• If you would like to learn more about the role of Chair or to discuss applying, please contact Claire Hopkins, CEO, at [email protected]
• If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will do our best to support you.
• Please see the full Role Description for ACP Chair and Person Specification.

Interviews

• There will be an opportunity for the shortlisted candidates to discuss the ACP’s strategy and governance with the CEO on 28th September 2026.
• The interviews are on 2nd October 2026 (In person at a venue in London to be confirmed with the shortlisted candidates)

Policies

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We believe that diversity strengthens our organisation and helps us better serve our members and communities.

Return to listing