Interim Chief Executive
The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is the National Governing Body for horse sports in the UK, affiliated to the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the international governing body of equestrian sports. It exists to provide leadership, vision and purpose in steering the direction of equestrianism.
The BEF is an umbrella organisation representing the interests of 4.2 million riders, vaulters and carriage drivers in Great Britain via 19 independent Member Bodies (15 members and 4 associates). Established in 1972 it is the largest representative body within the equestrian industry and together with the British Horse Racing Board and the Thoroughbred Breeders Association forms the British Horse Industry Confederation (BHIC).
The BEF is responsible for distributing Government funding to the equestrian sports. Funding from UK Sport and Sport England supports the BEF’s work from developing the best riders, with the aim of winning medals for Great Britain, to encouraging complete beginners to get involved. Funding support is also provided by Sport Scotland for Horsescotland, a member of the BEF.
The challenge:
The BEF is undergoing a period of significant change in both governance and strategy in order to ensure the continuing success of equestrianism in the UK. In addition it has commissioned an independent review of culture and relationships within equestrian sport in the UK.
Reporting to the Chairman of the BEF Board, the Interim Chief Executive will need to:
· Quickly establish relationships with key stakeholders, including (but not limited to) Member Bodies, UK Sport, Sport England and the FEI.
· Support the BEF team through this period of change including ensuring the full engagement in organisational values that inspire and respect all staff.
· Support the development and implementation of the necessary changes in partnership with the BEF Board and Member Bodies.
· Maintain day to day activities to the highest standards in a period of uncertainty.
The Person:
A strong understanding of the governance structures and regulatory framework within sporting bodies or similar organisations aligned to a proven track record in a senior leadership role, including previous experience of working at Board level, is essential; as is experience of working with multiple partners, stakeholders and volunteers to achieve success including working with public funding agencies and corporate partners and sponsors.
The skills required include:
· Highly developed leadership and management skills with the skill to balance driving for results with instilling a culture of collaboration, team working, innovation and support.
· Strong planning and organisation skills, adept at managing change with a track record of exceptional achievement in turning strategies into effective reality to achieve sustainable growth and ensure outstanding levels of service delivery to multiple stakeholders.
· Outstanding communication skills – listening, written, verbal and presentation.
· A team player with an open and consultative style and optimistic approach.
· Resilience, stamina and flexibility.
· Role modelling the values of the BEF: performance, partnership, professionalism and passion
· Exceptional influencing and negotiation skills with the credibility to build trust and nurture strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
How to apply
Further information about the British Equestrian Federation can be found on the website www.bef.co.uk
If you are interested, forward your CVs and a covering letter to Rona Newton rona.newton@bef.co.uk
Closing date for applications is 31 July 2017
