The client is seeking expressions of interest for the role of Chairperson to provide strategic leadership to the Board. The Chairperson will work closely with the Volunteer Centre Manager to guide the organization through a new phase of development, supporting governance, decision-making, and delivery aligned to an approved strategic plan and a volunteering framework funded for the next cycle. The incoming Chair is expected to shadow board meetings, build relationships with the Board and staff team, and take up the role with continuity, succeeding the current Chair who steps down in May 2027.
Key responsibilities include communicating the organization’s vision and purpose clearly with the Board and management, chairing Board meetings to ensure effective agendas and timekeeping, and supporting the Board to function effectively so that decisions are made and followed through. The Chairperson will bring impartiality and objectivity to discussions, stay alert to sector developments, policy changes, and emerging issues that could affect the organization, and help maintain the organization’s fit for purpose as it delivers on the strategic plan. The Chair will also advocate for and represent the client at external meetings and events related to the volunteering framework.
The client is looking for candidates with experience chairing a board or committee, strong leadership and people management experience, and an understanding of the responsibilities of a governing body, including the Charities Governance Code. Awareness of the operating environment for non-profits in Ireland’s community and voluntary sector is required, along with a commitment to the organization’s mission and the time required to lead effectively at Board level. A genuine belief in the value of volunteering for volunteers, the organizations they support, and the wider community is essential; the expected time commitment is nine Board meetings per year (approximately every six weeks) with at least one in-person meeting per quarter, quarterly sub-committee meetings as required, and additional time for transition ahead of May 2027.