Reference Number: 8310
We strive for a just world that advances children’s rights and equality for girls.
At Plan International we have set an ambitious goal to improve the lives of 200 million girls by 2027. Working with children, young people, communities and partners in more than 80 countries, we strive to create a just world where all children can realise their rights and girls achieve equality. We focus on tackling the barriers girls face – including child marriage, limited access to education, gender-based violence and restrictions on their voice and participation. Working with families, communities, governments and civil society, we challenge harmful social norms, keep girls in school and support young people to claim their rights.
Our ambition, ‘All Girls Standing Strong Creating Global Change’, reflects our belief that when girls thrive in a more equal world, everyone benefits. Guided by our Global Strategy, we continue to evolve as a dynamic and collaborative organisation to deliver lasting change for girls and their communities.
As our governance evolves, we are seeking two exceptional leaders to join Plan International’s International Board: The next Chair and an Independent Board Member.
We are seeking an exceptional and values-driven leader to serve as the next Chair of the International Board and Members’ Assembly.
The Chair plays a vital role in the strategic leadership and governance of Plan International, helping to steward the organisation’s purpose while strengthening collaboration across its global membership. The Chair provides long-term strategic oversight and governance at a critical moment for the organisation - guiding the final phase of the current Global Strategy, All Girls Standing Strong, while helping shape the governance processes that will inform the next. This presents an important opportunity to reinforce Plan International’s global impact, organisational resilience and long-term sustainability.
The incoming Chair will bring significant senior governance experience, including prior Chairing experience, as well as extensive experience within complex international membership or federated organisations, with the confidence to lead a diverse international board and navigate multi-layered governance structures. Working in close partnership with the CEO, the Chair provides strategic counsel and support while ensuring strong governance, oversight and accountability. The role requires the judgement, credibility and convening ability to guide a large global membership organisation, balancing diverse stakeholder perspectives while supporting an organisation that is increasingly recognised as a leading voice on girls’ rights. It also requires strong strategic thinking to guide Plan’s value add and positioning in a shifting geopolitical context.
An effective and inclusive convener, the Chair will bring together diverse viewpoints from across Plan International’s global and national leadership, board members and partners, helping move discussions forward constructively. The role requires resilience, sound political judgement and a clear sense of timing to guide the board through key decisions while maintaining organisational focus and alignment during a period of ongoing transformation.
We are seeking a strong strategic thinker to serve as one of our three independent members on the International Board
We are also seeking an Independent Board Member to bring fresh perspective, constructive challenge, and expertise to strengthen governance and strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will bring one (or more) of the following strengths:
We are looking for candidates who demonstrate strategic thinking, robust governance skills, critical analysis, and the ability to collaborate effectively across cultures and perspectives. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-performing, diverse Board and help Plan International advance children’s rights and gender equality around the world.
As this is a global organisation, it is important that the Board has a deep knowledge of all regions where we work (Asia, Africa, and Latin America). Given the current composition of our Board, we are particularly interested in candidates with deep knowledge and understanding of the context in Latin America for the Independent Board member role.
If you are interested in joining an organisation that is open and accountable, strives for lasting impact, works well together, and is inclusive and empowering then we encourage you to read more about this role by downloading further information below.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and person specification. Please specify in your application letter whether you are applying for the role of Chair or Independent Member.
The closing date for applications is 9:00am BST on Monday 20th April.
Successful candidates will be asked to attend online interviews in May and a face-to-face interview on either 11, 12, or 13 June 2026.
The expected time commitment is c.60-80 days per year for Chair (5-7 days per month), and 15-18 hours per month for the Independent Board Member, including participation in online and in person meetings. Successful candidates for both positions will serve for an initial term of 3 years, with the potential to extend these terms. Both positions are unremunerated. All reasonable expenses of the Chair and International Board Member will be paid by Plan International, in compliance with its Governor Travel Policy.
To confidentially get in touch about this role, or for advice on your application please email, Caitlin Vopni Caitlin.Vopni@perrettlaver.com
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