The Irish Red Cross Society (IRC) is seeking to appoint new members to its Membership and Disciplinary Committee (MDC). This is a voluntary role offering the opportunity to contribute to one of Ireland’s most recognised humanitarian organisations, assisting the Board in ensuring strong governance, oversight, and accountability.
About the organisation
The Irish Red Cross Society (IRC) is a body corporate established under statute. Established in 1939, the organisation has been dedicated to serving people in need ever since - whether they are here in Ireland or caught up in humanitarian crises in countries and regions throughout the globe.
Today the Irish Red Cross maintains an active network of over 3,000 volunteers at over 70 branches based in large and small communities throughout Ireland, supported by a Secretariat of over 140 staff, many of whom also provide direct services across the country. Annually, we manage a budget of c. €20m, with a diverse range of funders including the state, the European Commission and private and philanthropic donors and granting bodies.
The Irish Red Cross is also a member of the global Red Cross Red Crescent Movement –the world’s largest humanitarian network of over 80 million people – helping those facing disaster, conflict, and health and social problems. The Movement consists of International Committee of the Red Cross, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the 191 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
As a member of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, the IRC works in accordance with Fundamental Principles of the Movement – humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.
You can read more about the organisation and its work, governance and finances on our website and in our annual reports.
About the MDC
The MDC has a key role in investigating and adjudicating on complaints received by the IRC. It takes its mandate from the IRC constitution and operates under a Terms of Reference. This function includes but is not limited to:
Adjudication on decisions to refuse or accept a person to membership of the Irish Red Cross, having regard to the normal membership rules of the organisation and to ensure that fair process was followed
Adjudication on complaints against members arising from non‑compliance with the Irish Red Cross Rules or otherwise which could involve removal from membership or officer‑ship;
Adjudication on disciplinary matters including removal or suspension of membership;
About the role
The role of MDC member is voluntary in nature, although reimbursement of out‑of‑pocket expenses is permitted.
In terms of time commitment, the MDC is only required to meet as a committee when actively involved in the consideration of matters before it; there may also be limited time commitments during the year for training events. However, individual members may be tasked with participation on investigative panels, or to support Branches and Areas in their work as it relates to reviewing and responding to complaints. These engagements can vary in nature, but can require significant time commitment, including some travel in Ireland, when engaged.
Given the nature of the work, applicants for this role are required to be resident in Ireland. The term of appointment is for three years in the first instance.
Personal Specification
Members of the MDC should meet the following criteria:
Essential
Experience in investigating complaints, preferably in a large, complex organisation
Familiarity with governance and/or working within non‑profit or public‑sector environments.
Good practical working knowledge of legal principles as they relate to disputes
Commitment to the organisation’s mission, values, and charitable purpose.
Desirable
Qualification in law, mediation, arbitration or other recognised dispute resolution fields
Knowledge of diversity, equity, and inclusion best practice.
Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.
Interested in applying?
If you are committed to using your expertise to strengthen the governance of the Irish Red Cross and support our work in Ireland and abroad, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Please submit your application through the Boardmatch platform on or before 7th June 2026.
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