Overview
Volunteer: Non-Executive Chair - Irish Hospice Foundation
The Organisation
Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) is a national charity that addresses dying, death and bereavement in Ireland. Our vision is an Ireland where people facing end of life or bereavement, and those who care for them, are provided with the care and support that they need.
IHF develops programmes in education, research and bereavement services. We bring hospice principles into acute hospitals and residential care settings and are working to extend palliative care to non-malignant conditions.
We promote discussion of a broad range of issues related to dying, death and bereavement, in order to identify what matters most to Irish people at the end of life and how best to address their concerns.
From advocacy and education to services such as Nurses for Night Care and our Bereavement Support Line, we believe in the importance of dying well and grieving well wherever the place.
More information: Irish Hospice Foundation - To Die and Grieve Well Wherever the Place
The Board: Our Board - Irish Hospice Foundation
The Role
Irish Hospice Foundation is currently governed by a voluntary board of 12 trustees. We are now seeking to appoint a new Chair to replace the current Chair who will complete her 6-year term in May 2026.
IHF directors may serve two consecutive terms of three years, and a further three year term in exceptional circumstances as may be determined by the board.
Key Responsibilities
* As part of the board team, the Chair’s responsibilities will include:
* Ensuring a strong board governance framework, providing robust levels of oversight of the performance of the Executive Team and the organisation.
* Demonstrating outstanding levels of leadership and stewardship, leading and enabling the board to excel on behalf of all the stakeholders.
* Enabling the board members, individually and collectively, to add serious value.
* Bringing genuine independence of mind to the board and enabling an environment of challenge, debate, respect, and trust.
* Setting the example and tone within the board and organisation with a strong commitment to “do the right thing”.
* Supporting the CEO and the Executive Team in the implementation and further development of IHF’s strategy and business plans.
* Providing mentoring, support, and guidance to the CEO.
* Advocating for and communicating the organisation’s vision, mission and values.
* Serving as a figurehead and spokesperson when necessary.
* Engaging with stakeholders as required.
Skillsets & Experience
* Strategic thinker with good judgement.
* Strong communications skills.
* Ability to work collaboratively and inspire confidence among stakeholders.
* Deep commitment to IHF’s mission and values.
* Respect for the culture of a non-profit organisation.
* Prior Board Experience Is Essential.
* It would be advantageous, but not essential, to have experience as a board chair or chair of a board committee.
* Advocacy and stakeholder engagement.
* Empathy and sensitivity, respond to others with compassion, tact and consideration.
* Availability to commit fully to the role.
Charities Regulator’s General Duties Of a Charity Trustee
* Comply with the charity’s governing document.
* Ensure the charity is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit.
* Act in the best interest of the charity.
* Act with reasonable care and skill.
* Manage the assets of the charity.
Time Commitment
There are five to six board meetings a year plus one board away day. Board meetings normally take place in person on Tuesdays, alternating from 5pm to 7pm and 7pm to 9pm.
The Chair should be available to have several meetings a month with the CEO (online and in person), as well as providing ongoing support to fellow board members, the CEO and the management team.
Representation of IHF at approximately three events a year.
The Chair is expected to join at least one board committee (maximum five meetings a year, each of an hour and a half duration). There are currently five board committees.
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