Chair of the Board of Trustees

FoBV are looking for a new Chair of Trustees. This individual will lead the board and be responsible to its members, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, and in accordance with the charity’s vision, goals and charitable purposes. while also being an ambassador for the charity.

About Us

Friends of Bennerley Viaduct (FoBV) is a community organisation based in Derbyshire formed in 2015 with the purpose of safeguarding the Bennerley Viaduct Grade II* listed structure and its surrounding environment. Since 2019, when the organisation became a CIO, it has grown thanks to funding which led to the building of full access onto the viaduct, a new visitor centre and café and the development of an activity programme encompassing both formal and informal learning.

Chair role

·        Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that FoBV achieves its charitable purposes and goals.

·        Work in partnership with the Board, Operations Director and team to achieve our shared objectives.

·        Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.

·        Optimise the relationship between the board and FOBV staff, members and volunteers.

·        Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.

·        Act as a spokesperson and advocate for FOBV.

What we are looking for
Essential

●       Experience of being a trustee.

●       A keen sense of strategic purpose.

●       An inclusive leadership style.

●       The ability to listen and engage effectively. You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative environment.

●       Advocate - be able and willing to champion FoBV work through personal networks, social media, and other channels.

●       A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

●       Be responsive

In addition to the above, the Chair will have the responsibilities and qualities of all trustees:

Responsibilities of all trustees

●       Support and provide advice on FoBV purpose, vision, goals and activities.

●       Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

●       Oversee FoBV financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress, with the support of the Trustee Treasurer.

●       Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

●       Ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively in conjunction with the Trustee Board.

●       Provide support and challenge to the Operations Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

●       Keep abreast of changes in charity law and regulations as appropriate

●       Attend six Board meetings a year and be adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

●       Contribute to the broader promotion of FoBV charitable objects, aims and objectives by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

 Essential qualities and attributes of all trustees

●       Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

●       Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

●       Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

●       A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

●       Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

●       Willingness to lead according to our values

●       Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

●       Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable travel expenses etc. will be reimbursed