Chairperson
Sensational Kids is seeking a voluntary Chairperson to lead the Board of Trustees through a pivotal transitional period and capital development project (National Child Development Centre). This crucial role encompasses guiding the Board in overseeing the organisation’s strategic direction, governance, and overall performance. The Chairperson will be responsible for ensuring the Board operates effectively and that the executive team is held accountable for achieving the charity’s strategic objectives.
The ideal candidate will be a strong facilitator, decisive, empathetic, and accountable leader, with the expertise to steer the organisation effectively through this crucial phase. Sensational Kids encourage applications from individuals with extensive experience in leadership and governance who are also passionate about supporting children and adolescents with additional needs. A background in healthcare and familiarity with the operational relationship with the Health Service Executive (HSE) would be advantageous, though not essential.
Key Responsibilities:
- Facilitate effective Board meetings.
- Provide leadership to the Board.
- Promote exemplary governance among Trustees.
- Emphasise transparency and accountability.
- Provide continuous supervision and support to the CEO.
- Collaborate to achieve organisational objectives.
- Uphold the organisation’s integrity.
- Serve as a figurehead and spokesperson when necessary.
- Engage with the public on behalf of the charity when necessary.
- Advocate for and communicate the charity’s mission and values.
Skills and Experience Required:
- Commitment to Mission and Values: A passion for the organisation’s mission and clear alignment with our values. Is empathetic, compassionate, and attuned to the needs of Sensational Kids families.
- Leadership and Strategic Vision: Provides clear direction and effective leadership to ensure the development and delivery of organisational strategy.
- Experience as a Chairperson: Understands the unique role of the Chairperson and demonstrates a track record of effective leadership and strategic oversight across diverse teams.
- Background in Executive Leadership: Has developed and led high-performance, engaged teams. Ensures clarity, transparency, and responsibility in organisational effectiveness and performance.
- Governance and Compliance: Understands and ensures adherence to all relevant regulations and best governance practices.
- Communication Skills: Conveys information clearly and fosters effective dialogue. Positively resolves conflict and facilitates a collaborative team spirit.
- Advocacy and Public Engagement: Promotes organisational goals and engages effectively and productively with key stakeholders.
Charities Regulator’s General Duties of a Charity Trustee
- Comply with the Charity’s governing document.
- Ensuring charity is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit.
- Acting in the best interest of the charity
- Act with Reasonable Care and Skill
- Manage the assets of your charity
Board Meetings
Board meetings are scheduled annually and take place every second in a hybrid format at Sensational Kids, Unit C2 Kildare Business Park, Melitta Road, Kildare Town. The Chairperson is responsible for setting the agenda, ensuring the meetings are conducted effectively, and overseeing the follow-up on action items. Board Sub-Committee meetings are also held in a hybrid format and are planned to occur at least once before each board meeting to facilitate timely preparation and document distribution.
Applications
Applications by email to
Founder & CEO, Karen Leigh Karen@sensationalkids.ie and
Dennis O’Connor Dennis@2into3.com