BOARD MEMBER JOB DESCRIPTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

  • Accountable to the members, community, funders and other stakeholders
  • Accountable for the Society’s performance in relation to its mission and strategic objectives
  • Effective stewardship of financial and human resources

RESPONSIBILITY

  • Acting in the best long-term interests of the Society and the community
  • Bring informed decision-making by way of a broad knowledge and inclusive perspective

TIME COMMITMENT

  • Approximately six hours a month (board meetings, preparing for board meetings, participating in committees and attending special events)

PRIMARY BOARD DUTIES:

Operations:

  • Prepare for, attend and participate in board meetings
  • Contribute to the Board’s culture of inclusivity – listen to others’ views, advocate their own, identify common interests and alternatives, and be open to compromise
  • Consider serving on a sub-committee and make a serious commitment to actively participate in committee work
  • Volunteer for and willingly accept assignments, and complete them thoroughly and on time
  • Support and participate in fundraising activities
  • Abide by the by-laws, code of conduct, conflict of interest and other policies that apply to the board
  • Attend and participate in the Annual General Meeting

Governance:

  • Participate in the review of the Society’s mission and objectives and in the development of a strategic plan
  • Support governance decisions once made
  • Help the board monitor the performance of the Society in relation to its mission, objectives, core values and reputation
  • Ensure the Society’s financial affairs are conducted in a responsible and transparent manner
  • Monitor risk management and performance
  • Help establish, review and monitor operational policies
  • Participate in evaluation of the board itself
  • Participate in the hiring, evaluation and releasing (if required) of the Artistic Director

Advocacy:

  • Be an ambassador for the Society – ensure ones’ involvement is known within their own network of friends and contacts
  • Keep informed about community issues relevant to the mission and objectives of the Society
  • Support the annual Festival by volunteering and/or attending Festival events
  • Identify prospective board members and possibly help recruit them

KEY JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Knowledge of the community
  • Commitment to the Society’s mission and strategic directions
  • A commitment of time
  • Attendance at board meetings
  • Openness to learning
  • Technical skills that support the work of the Society and Board (e.g. financial, leadership, organizational, strategic planning, budgeting, governance)