The client is seeking to appoint an External Board Member (Fundraising) to support the governance, strategic direction, sustainability, and external development of its democratic, self-directed educational model. This voluntary role is externally focused and is intended for someone passionate about democratic education who will help advance the organization’s growth, fundraising strategy, and public profile in Ireland. The board member will also support the organization’s commitment to restorative practices as a core approach to communication, relationship-building, and conflict resolution.
The External Board Member (Fundraising) will act as an ambassador for the client, raising awareness of democratic education and building relationships with key stakeholders, supporters, and community partners. Responsibilities include supporting fundraising initiatives, helping identify potential funding opportunities, and strengthening external partnership prospects to support long-term sustainability and growth. The role also involves contributing to collaborative board work to ensure ethical and sustainable operations aligned with core values, along with offering independent perspective and constructive challenge to guide decision-making.
Key duties include attending board meetings and contributing to discussions, decision-making, and strategic planning; assisting with governance, policy oversight, and organizational development; supporting good financial stewardship; and promoting a culture of collaboration, respect, inclusion, transparency, and restorative practices. The client expects the board member to support compliance with relevant legal, safeguarding, governance, and charity obligations, and to bring relevant strengths such as fundraising and donor relations experience or the ability to develop relationships with supporters, partners, funders, and stakeholders. Confidence in representing the client publicly and a genuine interest in democratic, self-directed, and child-centred education, as well as enthusiasm for educational innovation and positive social change, are also essential.