Position Description – Chairperson, Board of Directors
Position Title
Chairperson (Board Chair)
Position Type
Volunteer Director Position
Term
As determined by the Constitution and Board election process.
Purpose of the Role
The Chairperson provides strategic leadership to the Board of Directors and ensures the Board fulfils its governance responsibilities effectively. The Chair works collaboratively with the Chief Operating Officer (COO) to support the long-term sustainability and strategic direction of Still Aware, while maintaining an appropriate distinction between governance and operational management.
The Chair fosters a positive and high-performing Board culture, promotes sound decision-making, and ensures the organisation operates in accordance with its Constitution, legal obligations, and charitable purpose.
Key Responsibilities
Board Leadership
- Lead the Board in setting the strategic direction and long-term priorities of the organisation.
- Chair Board meetings in an effective, impartial, and professional manner.
- Develop Board meeting agendas in consultation with the COO.
- Encourage robust discussion while ensuring all Directors have the opportunity to contribute.
- Facilitate informed, timely and balanced decision-making.
- Ensure Board resolutions are implemented and appropriately monitored.
Governance
- Promote high standards of governance, ethics and accountability.
- Ensure the Board complies with the Constitution, ACNC Governance Standards and relevant legislation.
- Monitor Board performance and support continuous governance improvement.
- Oversee Board succession planning, recruitment and induction of Directors.
- Ensure conflicts of interest are declared and appropriately managed.
Relationship with the Chief Operating Officer
- Act as the primary liaison between the Board and the COO.
- Provide guidance, support and constructive feedback to the COO.
- Lead the COO performance review process.
- Support the COO while respecting operational independence.
- Maintain clear boundaries between governance and day-to-day management.
Strategic Leadership
- Support the development and monitoring of the Strategic Plan.
- Ensure organisational risks are identified and appropriately overseen.
- Promote financial sustainability and responsible stewardship of organisational resources.
- Support innovation and opportunities that advance Still Aware's mission.
Skills and Experience
The Chair should ideally possess:
- Previous Board or governance experience.
- Strong leadership and facilitation skills.
- Strategic thinking and sound judgement.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Understanding of not-for-profit governance.
- Ability to build consensus and manage differing viewpoints.
- High ethical standards and integrity.
Expected Time Commitment
- Attendance at all Board meetings.
- Participation in Board subcommittees where required.
- Regular meetings with the COO.
- Attendance at key organisational events and strategic planning sessions.
- Additional time as required to fulfil the responsibilities of the role.