Trustee with Fundraising Experience Role Spec

The Organisation:

COPD Support Ireland is a charity set up to support all those living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is Ireland’s only national COPD support and advocacy body, bringing together local support groups from around the country, to help those living with, and caring for someone with, COPD. The organisation was founded in 2013 by patients working with the support of the Irish Thoracic Society, COPD National Clinical Programme, and health care professionals. 

Mission: 

COPD Support Ireland is an advocacy and support organisation, driven by people living with COPD. Our mission is to maximise the quality of life of people living with or at risk of COPD and to support those who care for them. 

Vision:             That people living with COPD live the life they want to live. 

Website:          www.copd.ie  

Board:              Meet The Team – COPD

The Role:

COPD Support Ireland is seeking a trustee with fundraising experience to join its board of trustees. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the fundraising strategy of the organisation, which is essential for maintaining and expanding its services.  

General Trustee 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   

Responsibilities of the Fundraising Trustee will include the following:  

• Strategic Leadership: Collaborate closely with the General Manager to shape, refine, and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the organisation’s mission, vision, and financial objectives.  

• Board Engagement: Participate actively in board meetings, offering strategic insights and advice, particularly on matters related to fundraising and development. 

• Committee Involvement: Commit to serving on at least one sub-committee, where your expertise will drive fundraising initiatives and ensure these efforts are consistent with the organisation’s overall priorities.  

• Resource Development: Assist in identifying and developing new fundraising opportunities. Explore innovative approaches to diversify income streams and secure sustainable funding, contributing to the organisation’s long-term financial stability. 

Skills and experience required: 

• Fundraising Expertise: Proven experience in fundraising strategies, including knowledge of various fundraising methods such as grants, corporate sponsorships, individual giving, and digital fundraising. 

• Networking and Relationship Building: Strong networking skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and other stakeholders. 

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to contribute to the organisation’s strategic planning and help shape the fundraising strategy to align with the organisation’s goals. 

• Governance and Compliance Awareness: Familiarity with governance responsibilities and the regulatory and legal requirements related to fundraising. 

• Commitment to the Vision and Mission: A genuine passion for the Mission and Vision of COPD Support Ireland to making a positive impact through fundraising efforts. 

Board Meetings:

There will be four to six board meetings a year, and four to six sub-committee meetings a year. Meetings are hybrid in general, with the majority taking place online and occasional meetings taking place in Dublin or in a venue convenient to the majority of attendees. Meetings usually take place mid-morning between 10am and 11.30 am on  Wednesdays.

There are three board subcommittees: Staff & Finance Committee; Governance; and Fundraising & Communications.