TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Period of appointment
Appointments are normally for up to three years and
restricted to a maximum of two terms. The length of these terms
will be determined by any statutory constraints or be a matter
for a decision by Ministers. In total, though, an appointee cannot
serve more than a total of ten years.
Re-appointments may be made subject to satisfactory
performance assessment and will be at the discretion of Ministers.
Appointment for this vacancy will be initially for
three years.
Board working methods and procedures
The Chair is expected to spend 3 days a week on Natural
England business. This time commitment includes time preparing
for meetings and travelling time.
The Board normally meets 6 times a year, in February,
April, June, September, November and December with some meetings
at Natural England's Headquarters in Sheffield and others at other
locations throughout England.
Board members are treated as working from home.
Conduct
The Chair is expected to observe the highest standards
of impartiality, integrity and objectivity in relation to stewardship
of public funds and management of Natural England. Appointees
should not use information gained in the course of this appointment
for personal gain or to promote other interests. The appointee
will be directly responsible to Defra Ministers. Any appointment
can be terminated early by the Secretary of State if the appointee
fails to perform his or her duties to a satisfactory standard.
Availability
It is anticipated that the successful candidates
will take up post in December 2009.
Qualifications
Candidates may come from a wide range of backgrounds
and experiences and a variety of age groups. No specific academic
or professional qualifications are specified. Candidates are expected
to be highly accomplished within their chosen field or discipline.
Remuneration
The current remuneration for Natural England Chair
is set at £71,665 per annum, on the basis of a time input
of 3 days per week. Reasonable travel expenses are also paid.
This appointment is pensionable.
Location of Offices
Natural England has a small HQ at Sheffield, with
offices located throughout the English regions, including a small
office in London on Victoria Street.