NOVAS Governance Sub-Committee

NOVAS currently has one vacancy on the Governance Sub-Committee of its Board of Directors. Applications are invited from individuals with legal expertise who are interested in contributing to the governance and strategic oversight of a leading homeless charity and Approved Housing Body.

Selection will be based on finding the most suitably matched applicant, with particular consideration given to the following criteria:

• A qualified solicitor or individual with significant legal expertise and experience.
• Knowledge and experience of corporate governance, regulatory compliance and the legal responsibilities of Boards of Directors.
• An understanding of governance requirements within the not-for-profit, charity or public sectors would be an advantage, particularly in relation to Approved Housing Bodies.
• Experience or knowledge of employment law, company law, charity law or regulatory frameworks would be desirable.

Role of the Governance Sub-Committee

The Governance Sub-Committee meets quarterly to provide oversight and assurance to the Board on matters relating to corporate governance, regulatory compliance, organisational policies and governance-related risks.

The Committee reviews governance policies and procedures, monitors compliance with relevant statutory and regulatory obligations, considers matters relating to Board effectiveness and composition, and makes recommendations to the Board on governance matters.

The Committee is attended by the CEO and relevant members of the executive team, who provide reports, updates and supporting documentation in advance of meetings and respond to questions from Committee members.

Membership of the Governance Sub-Committee offers an opportunity to contribute professional expertise to an organisation working with some of the most marginalised people in society. While less onerous than full Board membership, the role requires a commitment to attending quarterly meetings, reviewing papers and contributing to the effective governance of the organisation.

About NOVAS

NOVAS is a not-for-profit registered charity (Registered Charity No. 20041533, CHY 13390), a Company Limited by Guarantee (Company Registration No. 330018) and an Approved Housing Body (AHB-02763).

The organisation supports approximately 6,000 clients and tenants annually across six counties, employs approximately 300 staff and has an annual income of approximately €15 million.

NOVAS provides a range of services to people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, including homelessness prevention, community engagement, emergency accommodation, long-term supported accommodation, social housing and addiction recovery services. The organisation also supports individuals with complex needs, including those experiencing long-term homelessness and people with physical or intellectual disabilities.

Through its services, NOVAS is committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed support, promoting social inclusion and improving outcomes for people experiencing homelessness and social marginalisation.