Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees - Role Profile

Trustees’ key responsibilities

The main responsibilities of the Trustees are to:

• determine the overall strategic direction and development of South East Dance
• ensure that the fundamental values and guiding principles of South East Dance are articulated and reflected across the organisation including Trustees, staff, volunteers and everyone else who benefits from the charity’s work
• exercise effective control of the charity’s financial affairs, setting annual budgets and monitoring financial performance through the year
• ensure that the way that South East Dance is managed does not leave it vulnerable to fraud and that the systems of control are appropriate, rigorous and regularly updated
• agree targets with the Senior Leadership Team and ensure that South East Dance’s performance is measured against these
• represent South East Dance at key events and meetings, acting as an ambassador and promoting the organisation
• ensure that the charity complies with its governing documents and relevant legislation and regulatory requirements

The benefits of being the Vice-Chair of a charity

Becoming Vice-Chair of a charity is a rewarding way to give back to your community, learn new skills and meet new people. It is an engaging and dynamic role, which puts you at the very heart of a charity and its work, liaising with a team of like-minded people.

As a Vice-Chair, you play an integral part in the good governance of a charity, not only helping to ensure that the organisation remains viable and sustainable, but also that it adheres closely to its mission and works in the interests of its beneficiaries.

It is also great experience to add to your CV, whether or not you currently work in the charity sector. And if you are already highly skilled, it is a great way to use these skills to make a difference for a cause you’re passionate about.

Being a Vice-Chair can be challenging. There is a high level of responsibility and a considerable time commitment. In return you gain a wealth of personal and professional skills and connections which will stand you in good stead whilst empowering you with a new sense of purpose and prospect.

Vice-Chair role description

The Vice-Chair role enhances the Board by providing support to the Chair and strengthening succession planning by ensuring that someone is primed to step in should the Chair be unavailable or decides to step down.

The key responsibilities of the Vice-Chair are to:

• deputise for the Chair in their absence including chairing meetings if the Chair is unable to attend
• be a critical friend and support to the Chair
• share workload with the Chair if required, for example, if the Board has agreed on Chair’s action for a decision that needs to be taken between meetings or if the Board is planning to undertake a significant piece of work such as a skills audit or governance review
• In the event of the Chair resigning, taking over as Interim Chair until such time as a new Chair is appointed. This does not preclude the option for the Vice-Chair to apply for the Chair role in these circumstances
• Deputising for the Chair at Finance & Audit sub-committee meetings

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of effective non-executive leadership and governance
• Experience of chairing meetings
• Experience of charity governance and committee work
• Good people skills and the ability to act with tact and diplomacy
• Experience of operating effectively in a supporting role
• Ability to act swiftly and deal with complex issues
• Proven ability to act impartially and with fairness whilst respecting confidences
• Willingness to represent South East Dance at external events
• Ability to devote sufficient time to fulfil the Vice-Chair’s role effectively
• Highly networked and with the ability to nurture relationships

Desirable

• Relevant specialist skills- e.g. in business development, strategic financial planning, law
• An interest in dance/arts and culture