Join the Strategic Board of The Basketmakers’ Association

Help shape a bold, inclusive future for basketry chairseating and allied crafts in the UK.

The Basketmakers’ Association (BA) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and we are recruiting for five exciting voluntary roles on our Strategic Board which will take over from the existing Board at our AGM on 1 November 2025. As we embark on a new chapter guided by our 2025 Position Statement, we are seeking visionary individuals to help steer the organisation towards greater impact, sustainability, and creativity.

Background

The Basketmakers’ Association was formed in 1975 by a small group of teachers and students in London. Since then it has grown to a membership of over 1000 members across the UK, Northern Ireland and we have many members across the world. Since its inception the BA have been dedicated to making an impact on the national craft skills scene.

About Us

We are a vibrant, national membership organisation that supports traditional and contemporary basketry, chairseating and allied crafts through education, connection, and advocacy. Our work serves a wide community of makers, learners, and supporters – honouring heritage while embracing innovation.

We Are Recruiting For:

1. Chair and Business Development Director – 
A strategic leader to guide the board, drive sustainable growth, and represent BA externally.
2. Finance Director – 
A values-led financial strategist to oversee budgeting, income generation, and financial governance.
3. Legal and Compliance Director – 
A champion of good governance, equity, and accountability to ensure legal and ethical best practice.
4. Marketing and IT Director
 – A digital innovator to lead BA’s online strategy, communications, and tech-enabled growth.
5. Community and Volunteer Director – 
A connector to build inclusive membership models, lead our volunteer engagement strategy and members services.

Role Details

Location: Remote/Hybrid (occasional in-person meetings)
Commitment: Part-time including 10 Board meetings per year plus role specific activities – voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Term: 3 years (renewable)
Application Deadline: Sunday 28 September 2025
Start Date: November 2025

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people across sectors and backgrounds who share our passion for creative practice, community connection, and equity. You don’t need to be a basketmaker or chairseater—just someone who believes in the value of craft and cultural participation. We particularly encourage expressions of interest from people underrepresented in governance or craft leadership, including global majority candidates, D/deaf and disabled people, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those with lived experience of marginalisation.

How to Apply

See the individual Job Descriptions, as per the links above, and please send us:

• A brief statement (max 1 page) about which role(s) you’re interested in and what you’d bring to the BA
• A CV or summary of relevant experience

Deadline: Sunday 28 September 2025
More Information: We will be running to Q&A Zoom Sessions on Wednesday 3 September at 7pm or Thursday 18 September at 7pm (via Zoom) – Register Here to join either of these sessions.
Contact: Anna Stickland — [email protected]

Recruitment Timeline Highlights

• Applications Open: Monday 18 August 2025
• Application Deadline: Sunday 28 September 2025
• Q&A sessions: Wednesday 3 September at 7pm or Thursday 18 September at 7pm (via Zoom) – Register Here to join either of these sessions.
• Interviews: Mid–late September 2025
• Board induction: November 2025

Help us co-create a thriving future for basketmaking, chairseating and allied crafts—apply now and bring your voice to the table.