Walk Wheel Cycle Trust is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead the next phase of its journey as the UK charity dedicated to making it possible for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle.
Building on nearly 50 years of impact — including the creation of the Bristol to Bath path and the National Cycle Network — the organisation is entering a new chapter of ambition, growth and influence. The CEO will work closely with the Board of Trustees to set strategic direction, align culture and performance, and ensure strong operational delivery across the UK’s four nations.
The CEO leads a national team of 500 staff and 2,000 volunteers and acts as the principal public advocate and spokesperson for the organisation.
Reporting to
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Direct reports
- Executive Director, Delivery
- Executive Director, Strategy & Engagement
- Executive Director, Resources
Key responsibilities
- Set and deliver the organisation’s long-term strategic direction
- Provide visible, values-driven leadership across the charity
- Build high-trust relationships with government ministers, senior civil servants, mayors and policy leaders
- Oversee governance, compliance, performance management and risk
- Drive sustainable income growth through grants, contracts, fundraising and partnerships
- Lead organisational development, workforce planning and digital modernisation
- Translate national and regional policy into effective delivery models
- Act as principal media spokesperson and public advocate
- Champion equity, inclusion and community engagement
- Ensure evidence-based strategy, evaluation and impact measurement
Experience required
- Significant leadership experience as a CEO (or aspiring CEO leading a substantial executive portfolio)
- Proven track record of leading change in complex, multi-stakeholder organisations
- Demonstrated success in income growth and diversified funding
- Experience working with trustee boards
- Strong experience engaging with government and policy environments
- Experience within or alongside the voluntary or social purpose sector
Skills & attributes
- Exceptional stakeholder management and political awareness
- Strong commercial and entrepreneurial acumen
- Ability to inspire, mobilise and empower large, diverse teams
- Credible public spokesperson and communicator
- High levels of integrity, resilience and sound judgement
- Commitment to equity, inclusion and community-led action
Knowledge of sustainable transport, public health, housing development or environmental sectors is desirable.
How to apply
Submit:
- An up-to-date CV (PDF, labelled with your name and role title)
- A supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining your interest, fit and early vision for the organisation
- Completed diversity monitoring form
For confidential enquiries, contact Smita Rai (Green Park Executive Search):
📧 smita.rai@green-park.co.uk
Applications close: 11:59pm, Sunday 15 March 2026
