What is the role of the Board of Trustees?

• Responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation
• Ensures that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, company law and other relevant legislation/regulations.
• Working in partnership with the CEO to support staff members and volunteers, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation.
• Engage in stimulating, well-rounded and carefully considered strategic decision-making to help the organisation develop and meet the needs of its service users.

What are the main duties of a Trustee?

• Assist in the formulation of strategic plans and regular review of long-term strategic aims of the charity.
• Assist in the development of organisational policies, procedures, defining of goals, targets and the evaluation of performance against agreed targets.
• Assist in maintaining the legal and financial integrity of the organisation and supporting the continuation of the project
• Maintain an oversight of any risk to reputation and/or financial standing of the organisation and protect and manage its property.
• Represent the organisation at appropriate events, meetings or functions
• Fostering relations with potential partners.
• Support the Chair in the review of any external complaints as defined by the organisation’s complaints procedure

Key Qualities of Trustees

• Commitment to Quetzal’s, aims and values.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship (training provided)
• Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues.
• Balancing tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.

Time Commitment

The Board meets every two months on a Thursday at 6.00pm usually via zoom and trustees are asked to be available for the majority of these meetings.  In addition to Board Meetings, other contact, usually email or by telephone, will also be necessary.