Chair
The Role:
Bristol Civic Society
The Client:
They were searching for a Chair of the Board of Trustees to lead the Charity through the next chapter. BCS sought our assistance with this appointment, recognising our track record of placing top-tier candidates in complex leadership roles.
Bristol Civic Society (BCS) improves Bristol’s built environment and celebrates its heritage. They influence the development of major sites, public spaces and transport systems. Their aim is for Bristol’s status as a regional capital to be reflected in its cityscape, cultural activities and economic life. BCS encourages blending old and new architecture, adding to the city's beauty, character and diversity. The Charity aspires to make Bristol a source of pride for its residents and a magnet for visitors, creating a thriving and welcoming city.
BCS were seeking candidates who were passionate about Bristol and committed to supporting high-quality new developments. The role is accompanied by significant public visibility, given the Society’s frequent media engagements regarding proposed developments. The Chair is responsible for providing strategic leadership to the Board, alongside effective oversight and governance. BCS is a voluntary organisation, therefore candidates needed to be equally as comfortable working with volunteers and key stakeholders, such as Bristol City Council. The most challenging aspect of the search campaign was finding individuals with the skills and experience to lead the Charity forwards, who were also able to commit half a day per week unremunerated.
Sandy Hinks, Head of Moon’s Charity practice, orchestrated the search campaign. We combined headhunting, advertising, and an exploration of Sandy’s personal network to leave no stone unturned. As a passion for Bristol was integral to the role, the search was limited to candidates based in Bristol and surrounding areas. Our screening process narrowed the pool of candidates down to the most promising individuals. Following in-depth interviews, we were excited by what Sandra Fryer could bring to the organisation and recommended her as the new Chair. After a successful meeting with Ms Fryer, the Board shared our enthusiasm and appointed her as the Chair of the Board.
Ms Fryer has significant experience working with local authorities on space planning and regeneration. She is passionate about Bristol's developments and knowledgeable about this political landscape, as demonstrated by her previous role as Head of Sustainable Development for Bristol City Council. Furthermore, her strategic vision and background in Chair and Board positions enhance the governance of BSC.
Sandy Hinks commented:
“This was an exciting search campaign and an opportunity to test our search skills. We were restricted to candidates who were passionate about Bristol, skilled in leadership and governance, and able to commit a considerable proportion of time to a voluntary role. Despite a small candidate pool, we discovered some very talented individuals. Sandra was the most impressive - we’re sure she’s the right person to take BSC forward.”
Mike Bates, Bristol Civic Society Secretary, commented:
“Sandy was very accommodating, creating the recruitment process around our organisation’s goals and values. We’re thrilled that she suggested Sandra, who is a great fit for Bristol Civic Society.”
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