Founded in 1912, the Anglo-Albanian Association has been at the heart of Albanian life in the UK for over a hundred years.

The Anglo-Albanian Association (AAA) holds regular talks on Albanian history, culture and music, book launches and screenings of Albanian films.

We also provide information to members on a range of Albania-related events and developments. This includes an e-newsletter, the Gazette, which is currently published three times a year and contains a wide range of articles about all aspects of Albanian life and culture.

The Anglo-Albanian Association (AAA) evolved from a committee established in 1912 by Aubrey Herbert, the renowned diplomat, scholar and MP. His aim was to champion Albania’s right to independence.

Edith Durham was an early active participant and Secretary of the Association. She won acclaim as a foreign correspondent, writer, traveller, and anthropologist of the Balkans.

After the First World War, the Association monitored events in the Balkans and was an important channel through which news from Albania was conveyed to the British Government and general public. After the Second World War its prime concern was for the fate of exiles from Enver Hoxha's Albania. Since the collapse of the Communist regime in 1991, and the advent of democracy, the Association has renewed its links with Albania.

The Association celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2012 with a series of centenary events and has continued with a rich programme of events, including two major Scanderbeg events, one at Pembroke College in Cambridge in 2016, and one on 16 November 2018, at the British Academy in London.

The Anglo-Albanian Association is looking to appoint a new Chair.

About the Anglo-Albanian AssociationThe Anglo-Albanian Association, AAA, serves as a focal point for those interested in Albania, Kosovo, and the Albanian diaspora. Our mission is to foster understanding and friendship between the Albanian and British peoples, promote awareness of Albanian history, culture, and current affairs, and support cultural, educational, social, economic, and humanitarian projects that benefit Albanians.The Association organises regular talks, lectures, and cultural events, and keeps its members informed of Albania-related developments through social media, newsletters, and mail-outs. (See www.anglo-albanian.org.uk/).

Role Overview

The Chair provides leadership and direction to the AAA ensuring that it fulfils its mission and continues to thrive as a respected cultural organisation. The Chair chairs meetings of the Executive Committee, represents the Association publicly, and works closely with committee members and partners to promote activities that strengthen UK–Albanian relations.This is a voluntary leadership role requiring a genuine interest in Albania and the Albanian people, strategic vision, and the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Governance

Provide strategic direction and ensure the Association operates in line with its constitution and values.
Chair Executive Committee meetings and the AGMs, promoting effective decision-making and collaboration.
Support the planning and delivery of the AAA’s programme of events, publications, and communications.

Representation & Advocacy

Act as the principal representative and spokesperson of the Association at public events, cultural gatherings, and with partner organisations.
Promote awareness of the Association’s activities among its members and wider

Engagement & Development

Encourage membership growth and engagement
Oversee fundraising initiatives and identify opportunities for collaboration with UK and Albanian institutions, NGOs, and cultural bodies.
Support AAA’s online presence, publications, and e-newsletter.

Governance & Oversight

Ensure effective financial management and accountability (with the Treasurer and Committee).
Oversee succession planning and encourage participation from younger members and new volunteers.

Person Specification

A strong interest in Albanian culture, history, and international relations.

Ability to work collaboratively with a committee and represent the Association with diplomacy.

Familiarity with both British and Albanian societies, ideally through personal, professional, or academic experience.

Knowledge of the Albanian language (helpful but not essential).

Term and Commitment

The position is voluntary and typically held for a term of three years, renewable subject to re-election.

Attendance at regular committee meetings (approx. 4–6 per year) and key events is expected.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a brief statement of interest outlining their relevant experience and motivation for applying, along with a CV, to the Executive Committee at angloalbanian@gmail.com by 30 November 2025.