the Museum is seeking a new Chair with excellent communication skills, who will support an ambitious and considered approach to the trustees’ strategic decision-making, and who has the time to commit to supporting the Museum and volunteers.
Provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees to enable the board to fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the museum;
Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, and other relevant legislation/applicable regulations including Museum Accreditation and Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion;
Work with the Board of Trustees to support the museum volunteers in helping them achieve the aims of the museum;
Facilitates the Board of Trustees in ambitious, well-rounded, carefully considered, strategic decision making;
Ensure all members of the Board have meaningful opportunities to contribute to discussions and decisions;
Ensure effective communications between the Board of Trustees, the volunteers and key stakeholders.
Experience in leadership roles, effective communication skills, strategic thinking, negotiation and partnership working.
Knowledge of charity sector, and a commitment to equalities diversity and inclusion.
Interests in rural and social history and museums desirable.
Main responsibilities of the chair -In relation to the board
Ensure the Board formulates strategic plans and regular review of the long-term strategic aims of the museum.
Ensure the Board develops organisational policies, defines goals, targets and evaluates performance against these.
Approve the annual cycle of board meetings, meeting agendas, chair and facilitate meetings and ensure they are implemented.
Liaise regularly with the Hon. Treasurer to maintain a clear grasp of the museum’s financial position and to ensure full and timely financial transparency and information disclosure to the Board.
Lead and mentor other board members to fulfil their responsibilities and enable access to training/coaching information to enhance their overall contribution to the board.
Annually, at least, with the Board review the board structure, role, relationships and ensure any agreed changes / developments needed are carried out.
In relation to the community and code of conduct
Represent the museum as a spokesperson at appropriate meetings, events and functions.
Ensure the appropriate protection and management of the property of the museum together with any leased assets.
Lead the Board in fostering connections and relationships that support the aims of the museum.
Act as final stage adjudicator for disciplinary and grievance procedures if required.
Facilitate change and address conflict within the board of trustees and within the museum.
Undertake review of external complaints as defined by the museum’s complaints procedure.
Ensure adherence and compliance around key policies in all decisions and discussions of the board and any sub committees.
Attend and be a member of other committees and working groups as appropriate in role as chair.
To perform this role the chair must be given reasonable access to all staff, trustees, volunteers and information, in line with the board’s fiduciary duties.
Lead an enthusiastic, dedicated Board and volunteer workforce to take the Museum forward with its ambitious forward plan; contribute to the Museum's future as a thriving attraction as it develops for the changing local community and future.
Must be eligible to be a trustee; we will take up references. Further information: www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-essential-trustee-what-you-need-t...
