Chairperson role

The Organisation

The Finglas Cabra Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force was established by the Irish government in 1997 in response to the heroin epidemic in Dublin. It operates as a multi-sectoral interagency partnership. Its primary role is to develop, implement, and coordinate community-based responses to drug and alcohol use within the Finglas and Cabra areas of Dublin City.

Vision
The Task Force envisions a community where all stakeholders collaborate with belief and confidence to address drug issues positively.

Mission
Its mission is to maintain an inclusive Task Force that leads a coordinated local drug strategy tailored to the needs of Finglas and Cabra.

The Finglas Cabra Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force promotes coordination and fosters structured communication among local community, voluntary, and statutory sectors. It ensures a sustained local policy focus on the causes and consequences of problematic drug use through an annual schedule of inter-agency meetings that involve all relevant stakeholders.

Additionally, the Task Force commissions community-based services and projects designed to deliver positive outcomes in treatment, prevention, and public health for individuals and families in the Finglas and Cabra areas who are affected by drug and alcohol use.

Website: Home - https://finglascabraldtf.ie/ 

The Task Force is currently applying for charitable status.

The Role

The Finglas Cabra Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force is currently seeking a new Chairperson to lead its Board of Trustees and guide its strategic direction, with a strong focus on governance. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in the community and voluntary sector, with a deep commitment to the organisation’s mission and values. They should possess excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to represent the organisation publicly and build relationships with key stakeholders. A strong understanding of governance practices will be essential in ensuring effective Board operations. This is an exciting opportunity for someone proactive, collaborative, and passionate about making a positive impact in the community.

Key Responsibilities of the Chairperson:

• Leadership & Governance: Lead Board meetings, ensuring effective communication, decision-making, and accountability. Ensure compliance with governance standards, including CRA Governance Code and Charity regulations. Support and mentor Trustees, fostering engagement and performance.
• Strategic Oversight: Oversee the development and implementation of strategic plans, aligning with sector goals. Ensure effective management of resources and progress toward organisational goals.
• Community & Volunteer Engagement: Foster a collaborative environment within the Board and Task Force, encouraging participation. Build relationships with key stakeholders, advocating for the organisation’s mission.
• Public Representation: Serve as the public face of the organisation at events and represent the charity in discussions with government bodies, funders, and key sector partners.
• Collaboration & Support: Work with the Treasurer and key stakeholders to ensure financial health and operational efficiency. Support Board members with resources and promote a culture of teamwork.

Skills and Experience required:

• Community and Voluntary Sector Experience: Proven experience in working within or supporting community-based organisations, with an understanding of the sector’s unique challenges and opportunities.
• Leadership and Collaboration: Strong leadership and people skills, with a collaborative approach and ability to build and maintain relationships across diverse groups.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and bring a long-term vision to the organisation, aligning the Board’s efforts with the community’s evolving needs.
• Communications Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of representing the organisation at public events, with media, and in discussions with stakeholders.
• Proactive & Supportive: Proactive in addressing challenges and opportunities, with the ability to support the Board and organisation in times of change.
• Public Speaking: Comfortable with public speaking and engaging with external stakeholders on behalf of the organisation.
• Commitment to the Mission: Passion for the organization’s mission and values, with a focus on improving the community and voluntary sector.

General Duties of a Trustee:

• Complying with the organisation’s governing document.
• Ensuring Finglas Cabra Local Drug & Alcohol Task Force is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit.
• Acting in the best interest of the organisation.
• Acting with reasonable care and skill.
• Managing the assets of Finglas Cabra Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force.
• Providing input to the strategic direction of Finglas Cabra Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force and contributing insight, oversight, and experience.
• Policy formation and implementation as required.

Board Meetings:
The new Chairperson will need to attend five Board meetings per year, typically held on Mondays at 2 pm in Cabra, Dublin 7. In addition, they will participate in five Task Force membership meetings, held in person. While there are no specific committee meetings, the Chair may occasionally act as a spokesperson for the Task Force