Role Description

Principal Responsibilities

Chair meetings of the Board of Trustees effectively and efficiently, bringing impartiality and objectivity to the decision making process.
Ensure that Trustees are fully engaged and that decisions are taken in the best, long-term interests of the Charity and that the Board takes collective ownership.
Work closely with the Chief Executive to give direction to Board policy-making and to ensure that meetings are well planned, meaningful and reflect the responsibilities of trustees.
Ensure that the Board operates within its charitable objectives, and provides a clear strategic direction for the Charity.
Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated opportunities, and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities, and manage and mitigate the risks.
Work with the Board and the Executive team to developing the long term strategy for the organisation (growth ambition, impact goals, income generation target, org development).
Tracking progress against annual business plans.
Manage key strategic risks.
Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to ensure financial rigour and governance.

Ensure that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the Charity.
Ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for the Charity.
Develop the knowledge and capability of the Board of Trustees.
Address and resolve any conflicts within the Board.
Appraise the performance of the Trustees and the Board on an annual basis.
Ensure that the Board of Trustees is regularly refreshed and incorporates the right balance of skills, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead the charity effectively, and which also reflects the wider population.
Work within any agreed policies adopted by the charity.

Open doors between the Charity and your existing network (primarily for funding and influence).
Act as an ambassador for the cause and the charity.
Act as a spokesperson for the organisation when appropriate.
Represent the charity at external functions, meetings and events.
Facilitate change and address any potential conflict with external stakeholders.

Establish and build a strong, effective and a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive, ensuring s/he is held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives.
Ensure regular contact with the Chief Executive and develop and maintain an open and supportive relationship within which each can speak openly about concerns, worries and challenges.
Liaise with the Chief Executive to maintain an overview of the Charity’s affairs, providing support as necessary.
Conduct an annual appraisal and remuneration review for the Chief Executive in consultation with other Trustees.
Ensure that the Chief Executive has the opportunity for professional development and has appropriate external professional support.