Join the Strategic Board of The Basketmakers’ Association

Expressions of interest deadline: 26 August 2026

The Basketmakers’ Association (BA) is seeking committed, forward-thinking members to join our strategic board. Following recent resignations and planned departures at the AGM, this is a significant moment in the organisation’s governance and an important opportunity to help shape the BA’s future direction.

Founded in 1975 by a small group of teachers and students in London, The Basketmakers’ Association has grown into a national membership organisation with more than 1,000 members across the UK, Northern Ireland and internationally.

We support traditional and contemporary basketry, chair seating and allied crafts through education, connection and advocacy. Our community includes makers, teachers, learners, collectors, and supporters who share a passion for craft and cultural heritage.

The BA is now looking for members who can bring both practical skills and strategic judgement to this next stage, helping the organisation strengthen its governance, support members more effectively, and continue championing basketry, chair seating and allied crafts across the UK.

We are currently recruiting for four positions on the board (click blue Jo Titles below to download the Job Descriptions):

• Chair and Business Development Director 2026 – A strategic leader to guide the board, drive sustainable growth, and represent BA externally.

• Finance Director 2026 – A values-led financial strategist to oversee budgeting, income generation, and financial governance.

• Communications & Marketing Director 2026 – A marketing & communications expert will lead the strategic development of the BA’s digital presence and communications.

• IT Director & Company Secretary 2026 – A digital innovator to lead BA’s online strategy, communications, and tech-enabled growth.

We welcome expressions of interest from BA members with a range of skills, experiences and perspectives. Whether your background is in craft, finance, governance, business development, marketing, communications or community engagement, your contribution could help strengthen the future of the Association.

We particularly encourage interest from people who are currently underrepresented in governance and craft leadership.

As you may have read, the current board is reviewing the potential creation of an Operations Manager role. The intention would be for this position to provide administrative and organisational support, enabling volunteers to focus on events, projects, member engagement, and advancing the BA’s aims and objectives.

We are looking for board members who can help us shepherd in this transition towards stronger operational procedures at the BA.

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)
• Start Date: Autumn 2026 (date tbc)

Expressions of interest should be submitted by email to the Chair no later than 26 August 2026.

Email: [email protected]

Deadline: 26 August 2026

Please include a brief outline of your interest in the position and the relevant skills or experience you would bring to the board.

If you are interested in learning more before applying, or if you have any questions, please get in touch with Evie Stretch, Community & Volunteer Director via [email protected]

This is an important moment for The Basketmakers’ Association. Joining the board offers an opportunity to contribute to the governance and strategic direction of a respected national craft organisation, helping basketry, chair seating and allied crafts to thrive for future generations.

We encourage interested members to put themselves forward and help shape the next chapter of the BA.