Chairperson

The Organisation 

Sunbeam House Services (SHS) provides a range of supports to adults with intellectual disabilities in County Wicklow and South County Dublin. 

We aim to empower people with the necessary skills to live full and satisfying lives as equal citizens of their local communities. 

The ethos and philosophy of Sunbeam House Services is based on the following principles: 

• The provision of service structures which are appropriate to the individual’s age and ability. 

• The provision of the highest standards of professional care within the resources available to the service. 

• The promotion of independence, self-respect and individuality of the person using the service. 

• To support people as valued and active citizens in their local communities, through participation in opportunities and services for the benefit of the individual and the community. 

• The provision of services to and for people based on Personal Outcomes principles of: Basic Assurances, Shared Values, Responsive Services and Community Life. 

• The support of personal preferences of people and facilitation of their individual choices. 

• The fostering of links with other organisations. 

• The service recognises that to be successful in its endeavours, all persons working within the service and associated with it must share these ideals and in the course of their everyday work make every attempt to achieve them. 

Website: Home - Sunbeam House Services 

Board: Governance - Sunbeam House Services 

The Role: 

Sunbeam House Services is seeking a Chairperson to lead the board of trustees. This crucial role encompasses guiding the board in overseeing the organisation’s strategic direction, governance, and overall performance. The Chairperson will be responsible for ensuring that the board operates effectively and that the executive is held accountable for achieving the charity’s strategic objectives. 

The ideal candidate will be a strong facilitator, decisive, empathetic, and accountable leader, with the expertise to steer the organisation effectively, and with a passion for the organisation’s Vision, Mission and Values.     

Key Responsibilities: 

• Facilitate effective board meetings, including adoption of Positive and Productive Meetings Process 

• Provide leadership to the board and support the ongoing efforts to build a highly effective board with appropriate skills. 

• Promote exemplary governance among trustees. 

• Emphasise transparency and accountability. 

• Provide continuous support to the CEO., 

• Manage change and drive effectiveness in line with the new Strategy 2025-2030. 

• Collaborate to achieve organisational objectives. 

• Uphold the organisation’s integrity. 

• Serve as a figurehead and spokesperson when necessary. 

• Engage with stakeholders on behalf of the charity when necessary. 

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

Skills and Experience Required: 

• The successful candidate will be an experienced Chair, in a similar sized organisation. 

• Experience on a charity board or at a senior level within a large charity.  

• Knowledge of the sector in which Sunbeam House Services operates. 

• Governance and Compliance Expertise: Ensure adherence to regulations and best governance practices.  

• Leadership and Strategic Vision: Provide clear direction and effective leadership to drive success.  Experience of successfully implementing large scale change would be an advantage. 

• Financial Oversight, supporting the audit committee and finance department 

• Communication Skills: Convey information clearly and foster effective dialogue 

• Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement: Promote organisational goals and engage with stakeholders. 

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

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

• Commitment to Social Justice: Uphold the mission and values with dedication. 

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 your charity. 

Board Meetings: 

The board meets 10 to 12 times a year with additional meetings as required. Meetings take place in Sunbeam House Services in Bray, Co Wicklow, with a hybrid option if required.  Meetings start at 7.00 pm and last for 2.5 to 3 hours.   

There is also a board away day, stakeholder meetings (HIQA, HSE) and SHS community events.  

Committee Meetings: 

Trustees are encouraged to join at least one board committee: Audit, Nominations and Quality Risk.  The committee meetings take place during working hours and last for 1 to 1.5 hours.