Role Overview

The Chairman is the leading officer of Peak Cycling Club, providing strategic direction and leadership to the committee and membership. This role involves chairing meetings, representing the club externally, and ensuring the club operates effectively in line with its constitution and the interests of its members.

Term of Office

24 months

Time Commitment

Approximately 3 hours per week on average, with additional time required around AGM, committee meetings, major club events, and external representation duties.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the club
• Set the agenda for committee meetings in consultation with the Secretary
• Chair committee meetings and the Annual General Meeting
• Ensure the committee works effectively as a team and fulfils its responsibilities
• Make casting votes when committee decisions are tied
• Monitor progress towards club objectives and goals

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure the club operates in accordance with its constitution and relevant regulations
• Uphold the club’s values and promote good governance practices
• Oversee the work of the committee and individual officers
• Ensure the club maintains appropriate insurance and risk management procedures
• Handle any disputes or complaints in line with club procedures

External Representation

• Act as the primary spokesperson and public face of the club
• Represent the club at external meetings, events, and with partner organisations
• Build and maintain relationships with local authorities, British Cycling, and other cycling organisations
• Promote the club within the local community and cycling network

Member Engagement

• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive club culture
• Ensure members’ views and concerns are heard and addressed
• Encourage participation in club activities and committee roles
• Recognise and celebrate member achievements and contributions
• Promote club growth whilst maintaining club values and ethos

Committee Support

• Support and mentor committee members in their roles
• Facilitate effective communication between committee members
• Ensure smooth transitions during committee handovers
• Coordinate the work of sub-groups or working parties as needed
• Address any performance or conduct issues within the committee

Meeting Management

• Chair meetings impartially and ensure all voices are heard
• Keep meetings focused, productive, and on schedule
• Ensure decisions are made democratically and recorded accurately
• Follow up on action points from meetings
• Brief the Secretary on agenda items and priorities

Annual Cycle

• Lead the planning and delivery of the club’s annual programme
• Present the Chairman’s report at the AGM
• Oversee the election process for committee positions
• Coordinate the budget-setting process with the Treasurer
• Review and update club policies and procedures annually

Skills & Qualities Required

Essential

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to chair meetings effectively and impartially
• Good judgement and decision-making abilities
• Diplomatic and able to manage conflicts constructively
• Organised and able to prioritise competing demands
• Commitment to inclusive and collaborative leadership
• Understanding of the club’s constitution and governance requirements

Desirable

• Previous committee or leadership experience
• Knowledge of cycling clubs, British Cycling, or similar organisations
• Experience in stakeholder management and external representation
• Understanding of volunteer management
• Familiarity with the local cycling community and infrastructure

What You’ll Gain

• Develop significant leadership and governance skills
• Shape the strategic direction of a thriving cycling club
• Build an extensive network within the cycling community
• Gain experience in voluntary sector management
• Make a meaningful impact on the club and its members
• Personal satisfaction from leading a valued community organisation

Support & Handover

• Access to all club records, strategic documents, and contacts
• Support from the full committee
• Resources and templates for chairing meetings and reporting

Key Relationships

• Works closely with the Secretary and Treasurer (often referred to as the “officer team”)
• Regular contact with all committee members
• Liaison with British Cycling and other cycling organisations
• Engagement with local authorities and community groups
• Representative contact with members and the wider cycling community

Key Challenges

• Balancing strategic leadership with operational support
• Managing diverse member expectations and interests
• Maintaining momentum and engagement throughout the year
• Ensuring committee effectiveness and accountability
• Finding time for the role alongside personal cycling and other commitments