Main Duties & Responsibilities of Board Member (Trustees)
The primary responsibility of trustees is to provide the organisation with strategic leadership and maintain a governance perspective to ensure it is well managed and administered, and resources are used appropriately.
Statutory Responsibilities
The statutory duties of a trustee:
- Ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and other relevant legislation or regulations
- Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document
- Ensure resources are used exclusively in pursuance of the organisation’s objects
- Safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
- Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
- Protect and manage the charity’s property and ensure proper investment of funds
- Participate in the appointment of the General Manager
- Ensure the Board operates effectively by:
- Contributing to strategic direction and monitoring plans
- Evaluating performance and holding the General Manager accountable
- Ensuring financial stability and acting on monitoring information
- Defining management boundaries
- Supporting the General Manager in carrying out decisions
- Reviewing the performance of the General Manager and the Board annually
- Representing the Board’s agreed position publicly
- Act in the best interests of the organisation at all times
- Respect confidentiality in line with governance and data protection policies
- Work collaboratively and avoid pursuing personal or sectional interests
Specific Responsibilities
- Provide advice on HR policies, employment law compliance, and best practice in people management
- Support the development of effective recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies for staff and volunteers
- Advise on grievance handling
- Ensure the organisation has appropriate safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion policies in place and that these are implemented
- Offer guidance on creating a positive organisational culture that supports staff wellbeing and productivity
Other Duties
- Scrutinising Board papers
- Leading discussions on HR and people-related matters
- Providing expertise on organisational change and staff structures
- Advising on the people implications of new initiatives and projects
Time Commitment
The Board meets at least 6 times per year in Rossinver, Co. Leitrim. Trustees are required to attend at least 75% of meetings annually.
Remuneration
This post is unremunerated; however, essential travel and subsistence expenses are payable.