Letter from Jeremy Williams – Chair

Dear Candidate,

I am delighted that you have expressed an interest in applying to be the next Chief Executive of The Richmond Charities. I hope this candidate brief gives you all the information you need about the requirements of this role. You can also find more information about us on our website: The Richmond Charities.

The Richmond Charities is an almshouse charity based in the London Borough of Richmond-upon-Thames with its origins dating back to 1600. We provide affordable homes for elderly people over 65 in housing need and financial need and we have developed a vibrant, friendly, and caring community where older people are encouraged to live full and active lives within the setting of high-quality housing, support, comfort and security. There are 162 almshouses over 14 locations in the borough. The oldest almshouse estate dates from 1758 and the newest will be completed in 2025. One of the biggest areas of expenditure is to modernise and update almshouse dwellings. We are looking to provide 21^st century living, provide a sense of community for our residents and acknowledge our rich heritage. One of our strategic objectives is to continue to seek opportunities to develop more almshouses.

The charity also has a grant funding programme borough-wide to support those in need, hardship, or distress. We give funds to other local charities and organisations to distribute on behalf of The Richmond Charities, reaching those in the greatest need across the borough.

We are looking for our next Chief Executive Officer to build on the excellent work of the current post holder, who is leaving next year after 10 years in post. We are looking for an influential, passionate and committed CEO to lead our dedicated and enthusiastic team to assist with running the finances, administration, property (both almshouses and investment properties), general maintenance and supporting the wellbeing of residents. You will need experience of building strong working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Your key responsibility is to ensure that the strategic aim and operational plans of the organisation are delivered, consistent with the organisation’s ethos and values.

If this is a role that interests you, we would very much like to receive your application. You can find all the details on how to apply in this brief. If you have any further questions about the role once you have read this candidate brief, please contact Thewlis Graham on 0207 850 4781 or email: applications@thewlisgraham.com for a confidential conversation with Sarah Thewlis.

Yours sincerely

Jeremy Williams

Chair