Chief Executive

The Canal & River Trust is the UK's largest canal charity, caring for a 2,000-mile network of stunning canals and navigable rivers across England and Wales. Its purpose is to achieve a sustainable future for the nation's canal network, keeping it open and alive, making it resilient and safe, and maximising its value for people, nature and the economy.

The charity is seeking to appoint an outstanding Chief Executive to join the charity in Summer 2025. The role is without doubt one of the most exciting opportunities in the charity sector, blending complex environmental, heritage, community and public benefit agendas. The job requires vision, leadership and prioritised delivery.

The incoming Chief Executive will open a new chapter for the Trust, building on the firm foundations built over the last 13 years since the charity's creation. They will continue to meet the many demands of preserving the canal and river network, champion its benefits, and balance an ambitious strategy with tough economic realities. More than that, they will inspire stakeholders, communities and partners with our extraordinary story, growing support and recognition for the role the Trust plays, and ensuring we grasp the opportunities we have to use our canals to support many of our national priorities and improve the lives of millions of people. The foundations are in place to support a transformational next chapter for the Canal & River Trust, ensuring its place at the heart of the nation for future generations.

The preferred method of application is online at: 92991

For a conversation in confidence, please contact James Bailey Johnson: or Sarah Lowndes Jones: .

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