Volunteer Co Deputy Chair

What will you be doing?

Overarching responsibilities to be shared across both the Chair and Deputy Chair positions Governance – to encourage high standards and promote the efficient and effective use of resources throughout the organisation.Strategic Leadership – to take a leading role in the development, implementation and regular monitoring of the organisation’s strategy.Board development – to lead the development of Board of Trustees, ensuring that the Board is operating effectively, efficiently, and in accordance with charity law, working to best practice as set out in the Charity Governance Code. Specific responsibilities -Ensure SASS complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.-Ensure SASS pursues its objects as defined in its governing document. Ensure SASS applies its resources in pursuance of its constitution and objects.-Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against those targets.-Safeguard the good name and values of SASS.-Ensure effective and efficient administration.-Ensure financial stability.-Recruit, induct and support other Trustees as required.-Support staff, volunteers and the sanctuary-seeking community.-Facilitate change and resolve any conflict within the board or organisation Time CommitmentThe expected time commitment for each of the two roles is an average of 2-3 days per month, which would mainly be preparing for and attending the following meetings and events:Board meetings held every 6 weeks in the evening. They are usually in person meetings but there is the capacity for occasional online attendance.Advisory group meetings held every 6-7 weeks in person in the early evening.Once a month attendance of a drop-in session. These are held twice weekly on a Friday earlyevening and Saturday afternoon. 

What are we looking for?

Skills, knowledge & attributes-Experience of being either a Trustee or a volunteer of a charity OR as a senior member ofstaff of a voluntary organisation.-A keen sense of strategic purpose.-Understanding the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.-An inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equalfooting.-Experience of external representation is desirable.-The ability to listen and engage effectively.-Comfortable with challenge and debate, are able to encourage that in others whilst fosteringcollaboration.-An understanding of issues facing refugees and asylum seekers.-Lived experience is desirable.-A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.-Responsive to need. As a small charity, unexpected and unforeseen situations arise that willrequire the Chair and Deputy Chair to advise, support or consent to a course of action.-Willingness to lead according to SASS’s values.

What difference will you make?

This is a voluntary position, a busy, challenging and rewarding one. Joining SASS as Co Deputy Chair is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers while shaping the strategic direction of a vital charity. You’ll gain valuable leadership experience, work alongside a passionate and dedicated team, and develop skills in governance, advocacy, and nonprofit management. This role offers the chance to expand your network, influence key decisions, and contribute to a cause that truly makes a difference