Chair
The Role:
Clevedon Pier & Heritage Trust
The Client:
The Trust has overseen numerous developments which have significantly enhanced the visitor experience, establishing a visitor centre, restaurant, cafe and interactive exhibition - alongside a meeting room with unparalleled views. These major enhancements to the pier’s facilities have led to 100,000 visitors per year, funding the first elements of a long-term maintenance plan and earning the prestigious Pier of the Year award in 2021.
Clevedon Pier and Heritage Trust is a Charity committed to preserving and promoting Clevedon Pier - the only Grade I listed Pier in England. Initially opened in 1869, Clevedon Pier has a rich and fascinating history - it’s a focal point of pride for the North Somerset community and is celebrated by locals and visitors alike.
The community-led organisation is in the early stages of a 20-year plan to complete maintenance work and preserve the pier for future generations. They also aim to increase public interest in the heritage of Clevedon and its pier. They were seeking a Chair of the Board who could steer the Charity through the first phase of this plan and deliver set objectives.
Clevedon Pier Trust approached Moon to unearth candidates from outside of their network and wider audience. They were aware of our Charity Practice’s track record of successful leadership appointments for local and national non-profits. We were excited by the opportunity to contribute towards the preservation of an iconic and historic structure.
Finding candidates willing to commit enough time to an unremunerated role was the main challenge of this campaign. The Trust were seeking an external candidate, who could reinvigorate the Trust’s strategy with innovative ideas and a new perspective. They were looking for proven leaders adept at strategic planning and experienced in cultivating community partnerships.
The search was led by Sandy Hinks, Head of Moon’s Charity Practice. Our researcher Leighanne Beck played a pivotal role in discovering potential candidates. We combined headhunting, targeting advertising and an exploration of Sandy’s network to create a list of promising individuals. We encountered some hesitation when discussing the opportunity with possible candidates. Many believed the role should be done by a member of the Clevedon community, directly contradicting the Trust’s desire for an outsider. Despite this, we produced a pool of skilled leaders who were enthusiastic about the role. Through our bespoke selection process, we identified the candidates who would significantly impact the Trust. The Board were thoroughly impressed by the three candidates we recommended. Ultimately appointing Peter Stickland as Chair of the Board.
Mr Stickland brings extensive experience in the Charity sector, serving on Boards of numerous heritage and museum organisations. Our selection panel were impressed by his strategic business acumen across a diverse range of industries, from finance and construction to the public and non-profit sectors. Mr Stickland’s broad network of commercial contacts will greatly benefit the Trust, and he is passionate about preserving the Pier and engaging with the local community.
Robin Mendham, Trustee at Clevedon Pier and Heritage Trust, commented:
“We would not have found the 3 people that we interviewed for the role of Chair without Moon’s help - they saved so much of the Board's time.”
Sandy Hinks commented:
“We were thrilled to contribute towards the preservation of Clevedon Pier. The Trust sought candidates from a wider geographical area to inject fresh perspectives and innovative ideas into the organisation. We presented three external candidates who had the skills and experience to make their long-term goals a reality.”
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