The Organisation:
The Asthma Society of Ireland (ASI) was officially founded in 1973 following a meeting organised by Órán O Muire, a teacher who had struggled with asthma since childhood and was determined not to let it hinder his active lifestyle.
The Asthma Society's mission is to prevent asthma-related deaths in Ireland. It represents the 380,000 individuals living with asthma across the country, working relentlessly to enhance their quality of life.
The Society’s vision is for everyone with asthma in Ireland to lead a full, symptom-free life.
Board Our Board | Asthma Society of Ireland
The Role:
The Asthma Society of Ireland is seeking two new board members to join its Audit, Risk & Finance Committee (ARFC). The Committee plays a crucial role in overseeing financial reporting, internal controls, risk management, and the external audit process, ensuring effective communication between the Board, external auditors, and management. The Asthma Society of Ireland is seeking applicants for the ARFC, one of whom will have the potential to assume the role of Committee Chair in the future.
ASI has undergone significant changes and is focused on ensuring long-term sustainability while addressing immediate needs. The charity is developing new income streams and diversifying funding sources to continue providing essential services to the 380,000 people living with asthma in Ireland. ASI is looking for individuals who are passionate about its mission and who can contribute to driving sustainable growth. The new board member will play a key role in shaping the future of the organisation as it continues to scale its impact and build on past successes.
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 assets of the charity
Key Responsibilities of the Trustees for the Audit, Risk & Finance Committee
1. Financial Oversight: Oversee accurate financial reporting and approve financial statements. Supervise the annual audit process, including auditor selection and ensuring compliance with laws and standards.
2. Risk Management: Oversee the identification and mitigation of financial and operational risks. Ensure the effectiveness of the risk management framework and its regular updates.
3. Strategic Oversight: Advise on financial sustainability and ensure alignment with the organisation’s long-term goals. Contribute to the oversight of strategic planning, focusing on financial health and risk management.
4. Networking and Income Generation: Oversee the facilitation of connections between the Executive/Fundraising team and board members' networks to support income generation.
5. Additional Duties: Supervise the auditor tendering process and ensure continuous improvement in committee performance and effectiveness.
Skills/ Experience required:
- Extensive Financial Expertise: A qualified or professionally accredited accountant with substantial, recent experience in senior-level financial management.
- Governance and Risk Management: Proven expertise in compliance, risk oversight, and ensuring the effectiveness of internal control systems.
- Strategic Leadership: A distinguished record of leading committees, formulating strategic direction, and overseeing audits to uphold the highest standards of financial and operational reporting.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Extensive experience in liaising with external auditors, funders, government officials, and other key stakeholders to drive the organisation’s objectives.
- Board Experience: Prior board experience would be desirable.
Board Meetings:
The Asthma Society of Ireland’s Board meets in-person on Tuesday evenings six times a year, with hybrid options available.
The Audit, Risk & Finance (ARF) Committee convenes remotely seven days before each board meeting, on Thursdays from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, focusing on financial oversight, risk management, and compliance.
The Asthma Society of Ireland welcomes applications from candidates who align closely with its objectives and are inspired to contribute to the organisation's growth, sustainability, and continued success. If you have a passion for making a tangible impact and the expertise to help drive its vision forward, the Asthma Society encourages you to connect with them