Chairperson

The Organisation 

About  

Merchants Quay Ireland is a registered charity that supports people affected by homelessness and addiction. We offer food, advice, health care, mental health support and addiction services. Our mission is to offer accessible and effective services in a non-judgemental and compassionate way. 

More information: Who we are | Merchants Quay Ireland | MQI 

The Board: Governance | About Us | Merchants Quay Ireland | MQI 

The Role: 

Merchants Quay Ireland is seeking a Chairperson. The Chairperson will be responsible for ensuring that the board operates effectively and that the executive team is held accountable for achieving the charity’s strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will be a strong facilitator, and a decisive and empathetic leader.  The board of Merchants Quay Ireland is made up of members with a broad range of skills and experience.  It is not expected that the Chairperson would possess all the desirable skills as these are provided by other board members. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Uphold the organisation’s integrity. 

• Advocate for and communicate the charity’s vision, mission and values. 

• Provide leadership to the board. 

• Ensure openness and debate with, and good information flows between, the board and senior management. 

• Promote exemplary governance among trustees. 

• Facilitate effective board meetings. 

• Emphasise transparency and accountability. 

• Provide continuous support to and oversight of the CEO. 

• Collaborate to achieve organisational objectives. 

• Serve as a figurehead and spokesperson when necessary. 

• Engage with stakeholders as required. 

Desirable Skills and Experience: 

• Commitment to upholding the Vision, Mission and Values  

• Experienced Chair.  

• Oversee adherence to laws and regulations; with appropriate policies and procedures; and best governance practices. 

• Leadership and Strategic Vision: Provide clear direction and effective leadership. 

• Financial Oversight: Manage financial operations with responsibility and strategic insight. 

• Communication Skills: Convey information clearly and foster effective dialogue 

• Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement. 

• Team Building: Develop high-performance teams and promote collaboration. 

• Empathy and Sensitivity: Respond to others' needs with compassion and consideration 

• Decision-Making and Follow-Up: Make timely decisions and ensure follow-up. 

• Knowledge of medical/clinical or homeless services would be an advantage. 

Charities Regulator’s General Duties of a Charity Trustee: 

• Comply with the charity’s governing document. 

• Ensure the charity is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit. 

• Act in the best interest of the charity. 

• Act with reasonable care and skill. 

• Manage the assets of the charity. 

• Client Services

Board Meetings: 

The board meets five times a year plus the AGM.  Board meetings are hybrid and are usually held on a Monday from 2pm to 5pm.  The AGM takes place in October.  

Committee Meetings: 

There are currently five committees of the board. Each committee meets five times a year prior to the scheduled board meetings.: 

• Finance & IT 

• Fundraising and Communications 

• People and Culture, Governance and Nominations  

• Audit & Risk  

Committee meetings are generally held online on Mondays or Tuesdays between 4pm and 5.30pm.