HM Courts and Tribunals Service is seeking one independent Chair for its Board, based in London, with applications closing at 11am on 4 November 2026.

Role, pay and term

The appointment is for one vacancy, on a three-year term, for 30 days a year. The official listing gives remuneration of £25,000 to £30,000 a year, and names the Ministry of Justice as sponsor department. The skills sought are listed as commercial, communication, legal and judicial experience.

What the Chair will do

The Chair leads the Board, which oversees HMCTS and its work administering criminal, civil and family courts in England and Wales, plus reserved tribunals across the United Kingdom. The role involves setting direction, challenging and supporting the Chief Executive and executive team, and helping the Board work with the judiciary, government and partners across the justice system.

Who should apply and how

The official specification asks for a strong record of leading a large, complex, customer-focused organisation through change, sound judgement, and the ability to build senior relationships and consensus. Applicants apply through the public appointments service, providing equality and outside-interest information, then send a CV, supporting statement and short biography to Gatenby Sanderson as directed on the listing. Check the official page before applying, as interview timing is described as estimated. Apply via the official public appointments listing and read HMCTS governance on GOV.UK.