Governance /Legal Trustee

The Organisation:

The Inner-City Drug Task Force is a dedicated organisation established under the National Drugs Strategy to address drug-related issues in urban areas. Its primary goal is to tackle the unique challenges of drug misuse in city environments, focusing on reducing harm, supporting rehabilitation, and aiding the reintegration of individuals affected by addiction.

The task force operates through a holistic approach, combining prevention, education, treatment, and harm reduction efforts. It aligns with the 2023-2024 National Drugs Strategy, which emphasises several key priorities: enhancing prevention programmes for youth and vulnerable populations, improving access to community-based services, and developing integrated care pathways for high-risk users.

Additionally, the task force addresses the underlying social factors that contribute to drug use in disadvantaged communities, advocates for treatment alternatives to punitive measures, and ensures that interventions are guided by the latest data and research.

Collaboration is central to its operations. The task force partners with local communities, service providers, and government agencies to create and implement customised solutions that respond to the specific needs of urban areas. By leveraging local resources and fostering strong partnerships, the Inner-City Drug Task Force aims to achieve lasting, positive outcomes and improve overall community well-being.

The Role:

The Dublin Inner-City Drug Task Force is seeking a Governance/ Legal Trustee to support its newly established organisation.

This critical role involves ensuring strong governance practices, legal compliance, and strategic oversight while supporting the organisation’s mission and objectives.

As the Governance/Legal Trustee, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the task force’s governance framework, ensuring that all operations are conducted with integrity and accountability. Your expertise will be instrumental in guiding the task force as it addresses complex drug-related issues, safeguards community well-being, and works toward its mission of creating a healthier and safer environment for all.

If you have a background in governance or law, and you are passionate about contributing to meaningful change, the Inner-City Task Force is keen to hear from you.

• General Trustee 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.

Governance/ Legal Trustee Responsibilities will include the following:

• Strategic Oversight: Provide guidance on the organisation's strategic direction by applying experience from various sectors, ensuring alignment with the mission and goals of the Dublin Inner-City Drug Task Force.
• Governance Compliance: Oversee the implementation and maintenance of governance frameworks, ensuring policies comply with current legislation and best practices.
• Legal Oversight: Monitor and supervise legal matters, providing expert advice to ensure the organisation meets all legal requirements and regulations.
• Board Participation: Actively participate in bi-monthly board meetings, contributing to governance, and strategic discussions, and supporting the Chairperson and board members in decision-making.
• Influence Strategic Direction: Offer oversight on governance issues to help shape the strategic direction, ensuring actions reflect the organisation’s core mission and objectives.
• Attend Key Events: Participate in the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and other significant events to ensure effective governance and adherence to organisational objectives.
• Support Strategic Planning: Assist in the oversight of strategic planning processes, ensuring plans are compliant with legal standards and aligned with best governance practices.

Desired skills and Experience

• Governance and Strategic Oversight: Demonstrated experience in governance roles with a comprehensive understanding of board functions, strategic oversight, and organisational leadership.
• Knowledge of Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: Extensive familiarity with the legal and regulatory requirements relevant to the Inner-City Drug Task Force, ensuring compliance and effectively addressing legal and operational challenges.
• Risk Management: Proficient in identifying, assessing, and managing risks across legal, financial, and operational domains to ensure the organisation’s long-term sustainability.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to interact with board members, stakeholders, and community partners, managing sensitive governance and legal issues with understanding and professionalism.

Board Meetings:
The Inner-City Drug Task Force conducts its board meetings every two months, playing a vital role in guiding the organisation’s strategic direction. These meetings are crucial for reviewing ongoing projects, addressing emerging challenges, and ensuring that all activities align with the organisation’s mission to combat drug-related issues in urban communities. In the first year, consistent attendance is particularly important as the board works to establish strong governance structures and implement the strategic plan. The meetings may take place in person, remotely, or in a hybrid format, accommodating the needs and locations of the board members.