The Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP) is inviting applications for the voluntary roles of Chair and Vice Chair, to begin their three‑year terms in April 2026.
These roles are central to the strategic direction, good governance, and collaborative spirit of the Partnership. As part of our updated governance arrangements, both positions are now open through a transparent and inclusive election process.
About the New Chairing Arrangements
Following the May 2025 local elections, the long‑standing practice of appointing an elected councillor as Chair is no longer in effect. The Partnership is now adopting a more democratic and open system to ensure leadership reflects the breadth of the estuary’s communities and stakeholders.
Under the new arrangements:
- The Chair and Vice Chair will serve three‑year terms
- A Chair may serve up to two consecutive terms, unless exceptional circumstances are agreed by the Executive Steering Group
- Both roles are voluntary and open to a broad range of applicants
- Elections will follow a formal, transparent process in line with other regional nature partnerships
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcome from:
- Any member of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership
- Members of the public with an interest in the estuary and its future
Applicants should be able to demonstrate:
- A strong commitment to the aims of the EEMP
- The ability to act impartially, collaboratively, and strategically
- Confidence in chairing discussions and supporting inclusive decision‑making
- A willingness to represent the Partnership externally
What the Roles Involve
The Chair will:
- Provide impartial, strategic leadership
- Chair Executive and Partnership Committee meetings
- Chair the Forum
- Work closely with the Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer and Partnership Team to shape agendas and Forum themes
- Contribute to developing topics, speakers, and engagement activities
- Guide and support discussions, ensuring balanced and inclusive participation
- Represent the Partnership at external meetings and events
- Champion collaborative working across organisations, projects, and communities
- Support the Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer and ensure alignment with Partnership objectives
The Vice Chair will support the Chair and act as their deputy, following the same nomination and election process.
How to Apply
To apply for either the Chair or Vice Chair role, please submit:
- A covering letter outlining:
- Why you wish to apply
- What skills, experience, or perspectives you would bring
- How you would support the Partnership’s aims
Send cover letters to: exeestuary-mailbox@devon.gov.uk
Voting will take place by the Executive and Partnership committee via secret ballot (electronic or in‑person), overseen by the Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer.
All Executive and Partnership Committee members will be eligible to vote.
Timeline
- Applications open: Wednesday 4th of February 2026
- Applications close: Sunday 15th March 2026
- Voting: Mid-March
- Announcement of successful candidates: At the Partnership Committee meeting on 24th March 2026
- Start of term: April 2026
Interested?
For more information or an informal discussion about either role, please contact:
exeestuary-mailbox@devon.gov.uk