If you have never been a member of a committee or Board of Management before, you may be wondering about the roles each member plays. We understand that it’s difficult to volunteer for something when you don’t really know what is involved.

Key Roles on an NFP Board

Here is a simple breakdown of the key roles in an NFP board, and indeed, on most committees.

Board Chair/Chair Person

The Chair is the person who leads the meetings and ensures everything is covered and that the meeting proceeds on a timely basis. The Chair is also responsible for liaising between the committee and the NFP’s CEO. Importantly, the Chair must also make sure that the Board is operating effectively, and that means keeping committee members focused and cooperative, and that the organisation has all the right policies and procedures in place to help it achieve its goals.

Vice Chair Person

The Vice Chair backs up the Chair and stands in for them as required, including chairing meetings and representing the board at events when the Chair is unavailable.

Secretary

Every Board will need a Secretary, and they do more than simply record the minutes of the meeting. They are responsible for managing correspondence, preparing and distributing the meeting agenda and for accurately recording the proceedings of each meeting. In addition, if the Board is incorporated as many are, the Secretary must be sure that all the legal requirements are met with ASIC and under the Incorporations Act.

Treasurer

The treasurer is responsible for maintaining the NFP’s financial records and working with the auditors as they prepare the financial statements. It’s the treasurer’s job to look out for any financial irregularities and notify the board.

Public Officer

Sometimes an incorporated Board will require a Public Officer. This position is the legally registered contact for the organisation for authorities such as the Australian Taxation Office or ASIC. The Public Officer must also ensure that ASIC is notified when there is a change of Director or Director’s details.

If you are new to being a Board member, perhaps it would be wise to become a general member first so you can see the workings of the Board and each role for yourself.