Application Guide

How to Apply for Appointment of Chair of the Board of Trustees

at MapAction

🏢 About MapAction

MapAction is a unique humanitarian charity that leverages geospatial technology and data analysis to save lives in disaster response and preparedness. With a dedicated volunteer team of over 70 specialists and a professional staff, they've supported over 150 emergencies in 80+ countries, making a tangible impact in crisis situations worldwide.

About This Role

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and governance to ensure MapAction continues to thrive and expand its impact. Working closely with the CEO and Board, you'll guide the charity's vision, support fundraising efforts, and champion its mission in the humanitarian sector.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve leading a board meeting or strategy session, meeting with the CEO to discuss governance and fundraising priorities, and representing MapAction at external events or with key partners. You'll also spend time reviewing board papers, preparing for meetings, and supporting the recruitment of new trustees.

🚀 Application Tools

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🎯 Who MapAction Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in board leadership, ideally as a Chair or Vice Chair, with a strong track record in governance and strategic planning.
  • Deep understanding of the humanitarian sector, including disaster response, preparedness, and the role of technology and data in crisis management.
  • Excellent diplomatic and communication skills, able to represent MapAction to high-level stakeholders, including governments, UN agencies, and corporate partners.
  • Ability to commit the necessary time (likely 2-3 days per month) and bring a network of contacts to support fundraising and advocacy.

📝 Tips for Applying to MapAction

1

Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your governance experience and any prior involvement with humanitarian or technology-focused charities.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of MapAction's work by mentioning specific emergencies they've supported or the value of geospatial data in disaster response.

3

Emphasize your ability to lead a board through change, as MapAction is transitioning leadership and may be entering a new strategic phase.

4

Be prepared to discuss how you can personally contribute to fundraising and network development, as this is often a key expectation for Chairs of small charities.

5

Research the current Chair's legacy and MapAction's recent strategic initiatives to show you've done your homework and have fresh ideas.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for humanitarian causes and how you've demonstrated leadership in similar organizations.", "Specific examples of how you've helped shape strategy and governance in previous board roles.", 'Your ability to build relationships with key stakeholders and support fundraising efforts.', "Why you're particularly drawn to MapAction's mission and the intersection of technology and humanitarian action."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review MapAction's recent annual reports and strategic plans to understand their priorities and achievements.
  • → Look into the backgrounds of current board members and the CEO to understand the existing team dynamics.
  • → Study the humanitarian sector's use of geospatial data and MapAction's unique role in it.
  • → Check MapAction's website and social media for recent news, case studies, and partner collaborations.
Visit MapAction's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach the transition from the current Chair and ensure continuity of leadership?
2 What is your experience with charity governance and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements?
3 How would you support the CEO in strategic decision-making and performance evaluation?
4 Describe a time you helped a board navigate a significant challenge or change.
5 How would you leverage your network to support MapAction's fundraising and partnerships?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Being unaware of MapAction's core work and the importance of geospatial data in humanitarian response.
  • Undervaluing the time commitment required for a Chair role at a small charity with a volunteer workforce.
  • Focusing too much on professional experience without demonstrating a genuine passion for the cause.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: August 31, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to MapAction!

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