Volunteer Chair of Trustees

What will you be doing?

The role of the Chair is to provide leadership and direction to the board of Trustees. The Chair’s aim is to enable the board to fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation. The Chair will ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations and to make sure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document. The Chair's role is also to work in partnership with the Director and support the employees, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation; and to optimise the relationship between the board of Trustees and staff. It would be an advantage if the Chair was able to commit to a three-year term. This position is not remunerated but reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred fulfilling the duties of the role are reimbursed. Main Responsibilities:

Providing leadership for the board of trustees in their role of setting the strategy and policy of the organisation. Chairing and facilitating the board meetings. Liaising regularly with the Director and Treasurer to maintain a clear grasp of the charity’s financial position and to ensure full and timely financial transparency and information disclosure to the Board. Representing the organisation at appropriate events, meetings or functions. Acting as a spokesperson for the organisation where appropriate. Leading the Board in fostering relations with potential partners/funders/donors. Consulting with the Director on matters of strategy, governance, finance and HR. With the Director, raising funds for the charity. Maintaining careful oversight of any risk to reputation and/or financial standing of the organisation. With the Director, maintaining oversight of the organisation’s work and financial performance. Reviewing and appraising the performance of the Director. Attending and being a member of other working groups when appropriate.

What are we looking for?

ESSENTIAL Knowledge

Knowledge of the UK voluntary sector Understanding of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of a trustee

Skills

Leadership ability Strategic vision Ability to take decisions for the good of the organisation Ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with a wide range of people, verbally and in writing High level of competence in IT applications including MS Office Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues in different locations

Personal qualities

Passionate about improving outcomes for people with PMR and GCA Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as Chair Good judgement and integrity Tact and diplomacy Willingness to speak one’s mind and listen to the views of others Commitment to equal opportunities Ability to protect confidentiality and awareness of data protection issues Enjoyment of working with people and enabling them to develop their skills

DESIRABLE ​Experience

Experience of being a trustee or having another governance role Experience of charity fundraising Experience of line management

Knowledge

Knowledge of health and social issues affecting older people

Skills

Ability to understand budgets and financial projections

What difference will you make?

Chair of Trustees provides leadership alongside the paid Director, and is therefore one of the most influential and important roles in the charity. We are looking for a Chair who can contribute strategic vision as we move to the next level in terms of impact, professionalism and size.