Co-Chair Recruitment Opportunity

What the role will involve

The ORN Co-Chair role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the direction and impact of the network. As Co-Chair, you will work closely with your fellow Co-Chair, James Nevitt, the ORN Executive Committee, and the Secretariat to guide the network’s activities, support its members, and champion its objectives.

You’ll play a key part in setting priorities, facilitating collaboration, and representing the ORN within and beyond the network. This role provides valuable experience in strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and network development – an excellent opportunity for professional growth and to raise the profile of both yourself and your organisation.

Pippa Langford reflects on time as Co-Chair

Pippa Langford reflects on the transformative experience of being ORN Co-Chair from 2020 to 2025. In this video she shares how the role has allowed her to engage meaningfully with professionals across diverse disciplines and expanded her confidence, broadened her perspective, and reinforced the value of a supportive network. In her reflections, Pippa underscores that leadership is not just about guiding initiatives, but about fostering connections, empowering others, and cultivating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Terms of the Appointment of the ORN Co-Chair

1. The position of ORN Co-Chair is voluntary, non-paid, and independent
2. Co-Chair can come from any ORN member organisation
3. The position of Co-Chair will be held for a period of 3 years following appointment
4. The position can be held for consecutive terms by re-election
5. The position allows the right candidate to network and raise their own profile across the outdoor recreation sector within the UK and Ireland.

The Process

1. Applications and nominations for the post of Co-Chair can be made by any member using the application form linked below.
2. The applicant and their organisation must have agreed in principle to the application
3. The applicant must also prepare a statement about why they want the role, their vision for ORN and how they would work with members and others to achieve it
4. The ‘Appointment of ORN Co-Chair Sub-Group’ will invite applicants to attend an online interview
5. The Executive Committee will make the final decision.

Experience:

1. A minimum of 5 years at senior management level within an outdoor recreation orientated organisation.
2. Prior experience of:
   * Successful strategic planning and implementation
   * Organisational change / transformation
   * Performing the role of Chair for committees or working groups

Behaviour and competences:

1. Aptitude to think strategically, analytically, problem solve and make decisions.
2. Ability to act as an ambassador and recruit new members.
3. Strong verbal communicator to confidently:
   * advise, communicate, and influence at all levels in a sensitive manner
   * deliver addresses at key ORN events
   * act as an ambassador for ORN
4. Highly self-motivated with the ability to act on personal initiative.
5. Comfortable chairing webinars, in person conferences and masterclasses.
6. Valuable team player with a desire to share learning and ideas.
7. Detailed knowledge of key issues and trends in outdoor recreation across the United Kingdom and Ireland.