Chair of the Disclosure and Barring Service

Do you want to play a key role in safeguarding children and vulnerable groups?

If so, you can do this by becoming a Non-Executive Board member of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), which provides a critical public service by supplying information to employers and other organisations in England and Wales (and barring information only in Northern Ireland), so they can make informed recruitment and licensing decisions, particularly for employers and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults.

The DBS also has responsibility for deciding whether an individual is barred from working with vulnerable groups. This is an exciting time for the organisation, with increased public interest in the and its work.

We are seeking a highly skilled and enthusiastic individual, whose responsibilities as the Chair will be to lead its strategic direction through providing sound and considered leadership and constructive challenge; supporting it in meeting its objectives and its role in the wider regulatory landscape; to be satisfied that its financial practices are accurate and robust and that is operating efficiently and effectively; set the objectives for and manage the performance of the DBS Board and the Chief Executive; and build effective relationships with core stakeholders, including Ministers.

We are looking for candidates with outstanding strategic leadership qualities that will inform and influence a compelling vision; an ability to work with the Executive and Non-Executives to maintain a high performing Board; an ability to work in a transformational system and business change environment; and a professional track record that demonstrates dynamic leadership.

This will be a three-year appointment with the possibility of re-appointment.

The closing date for applications is 11pm on 15 June 2026

We encourage a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all suitably qualified people. Appointments to the DBS are regulated by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.