In this narrative account I reflect on my role as Chair of Ireland’s Citizens’ Assembly on Biodiversity Loss. This role is unique within the Assembly model since it spans both the operation and delivery of the work, both member and overseer, and is both internally and externally facing. It is a multifaceted and sometimes ambiguous position, at times moulded by the Chair themselves. In this article I share some considerations of the functions and challenges of the role, emphasising the part the Chair must play in contributing to the work of the Assembly, representing the Assembly and its recommendations as they traverse through the political structures, and the personal costs and opportunities involved in the role.