Case study: Chair recruitment | Hatch Enterprise
We were delighted to support Hatch Enterprise with the recruitment of its new Chair. Read on to learn more about the process.
Brief
The brief called for a Chair with proven senior leadership, governance experience, and the ability to connect Hatch with senior stakeholders across business, philanthropy, and social enterprise. A key requirement was experience of leadership transition — the ability to mentor and support a newly promoted CEO and ensure stability through change.
We searched nationally, focusing on candidates with experience in social mobility, entrepreneurship and inclusion, alongside those from corporate sectors who could bring commercial networks and strategic insight. Familiarity with London’s ecosystem of enterprise support was desirable but not essential; the priority was finding someone who could champion Hatch’s mission while guiding sustainable growth.
The Board sought a Chair who could reinvigorate strategy, support the CEO, and serve as an external ambassador to funders and partners. Our search generated nine high-quality applications, including seasoned Chairs, portfolio non-executives, investors in early-stage businesses and leaders with expertise in HR, digital transformation, and governance.
Category: Board Recruitment & Development
Consultant in charge
Clare Chesworth
Head of Social Justice
Clare Chesworth is Head of Social Justice at Peridot Partners. She brings extensive experience in recruitment, HR, and employability across diverse sectors, including events, education, and social justice. Over her recruitment career, she has honed invaluable skills such as active listening, building strong relationships, and fostering collaboration to deliver meaningful outcomes for clients and candidates consistently.
With a passion for supporting marginalised communities, Clare focuses particularly on improving employment opportunities for individuals with additional needs. Before joining Peridot, she designed and led a post-16 provision at a SEN school, preparing young people with autism for apprenticeships and employment. Her dedication to equality, diversity and inclusion has driven her throughout her career, both in her work and as a school governor.
At Peridot, Clare's focus has expanded to working with organisations tackling complex social issues like homelessness and housing. She has led high-profile recruitment campaigns for leadership roles at charities such as Caudwell Children, Society of St James, and YMCA Downslink, always striving to place the right people in roles where they can make a lasting impact.
Outside of work, Clare is deeply involved in her local community and enjoys theatre, cooking for loved ones, and cheering on her sons at rugby matches. Friendly and approachable, she combines her professional expertise with a genuine care for people and their potential.
