Trustee board chair

What will you be doing?

Provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees so they fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation. • Facilitate the Board of Trustees in strategic decision-making to ensure sustainability, to manage risk and ensure that there is clear evidence of the impact of Citizens Advice BANES service in the local area. • Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, company law and other relevant legislation. • Provide oversight of the work of the CEO and senior staff members and ensure that the organisation meets the various quality standards set out by Citizens Advice nationally. • Line management of the CEO. • Represent the organisation externally in relationships with City Council and other funders, with partner organisations and with Citizens Advice nationally. • Act as an ambassador or the Charity. • Plan and prepare Board meetings and AGM. • Lead the appointment and induction of new trustees and ensure that the Board reflects the local community and has the right mix of skills, knowledge and experience. • Regularly review the Board’s work and composition and identify areas for improvement.

The Board meets approximately 6 times per year, on a weekday morning, and there are occasional other special meetings, task groups and events to attend. In total the role of Chair requires the equivalent of approximately 3 days per month but requires flexibility at certain times where there is a need to respond quickly. Much business is conducted virtually and from home. The role is voluntary but appropriate expenses can be reimbursed.

What are we looking for?

Experience

Leadership and senior management experience in any context. • At least 2 years of being a Trustee of a Charity or similar non-profit organisation. • Chairing meetings effectively. • Good understanding of governance and the legal responsibilities of the Board. • Good insight into the issues that affect equalities in the BANES area and the context in which Citizens Advice services are delivered. • Experience of organisational development, strategic and business planning. • A sound grasp of financial management and risk management. • Supporting an organisation through change, particularly in the current transformative period.

Personal Qualities

Confident, with excellent people management skills, and able to build trusting relationships with Trustees, senior staff, external partners and stakeholders. • Able to make measured and fair judgements and decisions. • Able to engage and consult with Trustees and senior staff about important decisions affecting the Charity. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to represent the charity externally. • Serve as Chair of Trustees for a minimum of 3 years. • Champion a client-centric culture. • Ideally the Chair will bring some knowledge of the needs in the West of England area.

What difference will you make?

The role of chair is a crucial one in any voluntary organisation and a strong working relationship between chair and CEO is essential to ensure strong governance of the charity and successful delivery of our varied services. This is a critical time for Citizens Advice BANES as we decide how we can move back to offering some face-to-face services and continue to meet the additional demand created by the pandemic and its aftermath. We are well placed in the local community and enjoy good relations with our funders and other key stakeholders.

Before you apply

A candidate briefing pack is available – please contact Sandy Hinks, Head of Charity Practice at Moon Executive Search on 01275 371200 quoting reference: JO2187.