Independent Chair of the Board – Welsh Sports Association

Independent Chair of the Board

The Welsh Sports Association (WSA) is seeking an inspiring, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as Chair of its Board from February 2027. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the organisation through its next phase of development and to play a key role in strengthening the sport and physical activity sector across Wales.

This vacancy arises as the current Chair reaches the end of their second and final four-year term, having completed the maximum eight years of service permitted under the WSA’s Articles of Association. The appointment will be for an initial term of four years.

As Chair, you will provide effective leadership to the Board, ensuring it operates to the highest standards of governance and fulfils its responsibilities in relation to strategy, performance, accountability and organisational oversight. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board Directors and key stakeholders, you will help shape the future direction of the WSA and support the achievement of its vision and strategic objectives.

The successful candidate will foster a culture of openness, inclusivity and constructive challenge, enabling the Board to operate effectively and make informed decisions. They will champion continuous improvement, build strong relationships across the sector, and act as an ambassador for the WSA, promoting its values and impact throughout Wales.

We’re looking for someone who has:

• Significant senior leadership experience gained through executive, non-executive or board-level roles.
• Experience of chairing boards, committees or senior leadership groups, or demonstrable readiness to undertake a board chair role.
• Strong understanding of corporate governance principles and board responsibilities.
• Proven ability to lead strategic discussions and facilitate effective decision-making.
• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to provide constructive support and challenge to executive leadership.
• Experience of managing complex stakeholder relationships.
• Strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Strategic vision and leadership capability.
• Sound judgement, integrity and independence of thought

About the role

• Voluntary role
• Four‑year term
• Approx. six Board commitments per year
• Lead a committed, inclusive and forward‑thinking Board making a real impact across Wales
  

Closing date for applications is Sunday 25th October 2026.

Download the full recruitment pack here.

To apply for this role, please complete the online application form

If this sounds like the perfect next step for you (or someone you know), please take a look and consider applying. We’d love to hear from individuals passionate about strengthening the sport and physical activity sector across Wales.