Chairperson

The Organisation 

Wexford Rape Crisis is a client-centred support service for those who have been affected by domestic, sexual or gender-based violence, including women, men, young people (age 12 years upwards) and all persons of different sexual or gender identities. 

Anyone can be a victim of domestic, sexual or gender-based violence, irrespective of age, race, income or employment status. Underpinning all aspects of the work of Wexford Rape Crisis is an ethos which offers support, empathy and understanding.  We provide a non-judgemental, empowering and compassionate service which facilitates healing and recovery. 

Aims of Wexford Rape Crisis: 

Through our counselling service, advocacy and awareness-raising work, we aim to support our clients by:  

• Implementing best practice in all we do with survivors of domestic, sexual or gender-based violence 

• Developing therapeutic relationships 

• Ensuring survivors have access to services which are responsive and appropriate to their needs 

• Supporting them to make informed choices 

• Providing accessible, sensitive, confidential and quality services 

• Working on behalf of our clientele with other organisations and agencies when appropriate. 

• Working preventatively in communities through education, media campaigns and public awareness strategies 

• Monitoring and evaluating our service provision 

• Ensuring the safeguarding of children in situations of domestic, sexual or gender-based violence. 

 Our counsellors are professionally qualified and accredited to relevant recognised accreditation bodies. 

For more information: Home - Wexford Rape Crisis 

Meet the board: Board of Directors - Wexford Rape Crisis 

The Role: 

Wexford Rape Crisis is seeking a Chairperson to lead the board of Trustees through a period of growth. 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 strategic objectives. 

The ideal candidate will be a strong facilitator, decisive, empathetic, and accountable leader. Wexford Rape Crisis encourages applications from individuals with experience in leadership and governance who are passionate about their mission.   

Key Responsibilities: 

• Facilitate effective board meetings. 

• Provide leadership to the board. 

• Promote exemplary governance among Trustees. 

• Emphasise transparency and accountability. 

• Provide support to the CEO. 

• Collaborate to achieve organisational objectives. 

• Uphold the organisation’s integrity. 

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

Skills and Experience Required: 

• Governance and compliance expertise: Ensures adherence to regulations and best corporate governance practices.  

• Chair experience or significant previous board experience / committee chair experience. 

• Leadership and strategic vision: Provide clear direction and effective leadership. 

• Financial acumen: While it is not necessary to be a qualified accountant, it is important that the Chairperson possesses strong financial acumen. 

• Communication skills: Convey information clearly and foster effective dialogue 

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

• Decision-making and follow-up: Make timely decisions and ensure thorough follow-up. 

• Commitment to mission and values: 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 

Board meetings are held in person so applicants should be within travelling distance of Wexford Rape Crisis Centre. There are ten board meetings a year including the AGM (there are no board meetings in July and August). Board meetings take place at the offices of Wexford Rape Crisis Centre on Wednesdays from 12:30 to 2:30.  

At present there is only one sub-committee, the Audit and Risk Committee, which meets three times a year with each meeting running for one hour approximately.   

In addition, there is regular interaction between the Chair and CEO via phone, online and in-person meetings.