Applications are invited from both within and outside the Irish Grown Wool Council as we seek to develop our organisation.
Job Title: Chairperson
Location: Ireland (Flexible, with both in-person and remote meetings)
Type: Voluntary
Time Commitment: Approx. 4+ days per month (including board meetings, subcommittee meetings and preparation)
Term: 2 years
About the Irish Grown Wool Council:
Our purpose is to promote an Irish grown wool brand, locally and globally. We are focused on creating additional value in the total Irish grown wool chain to ensure a fair proportion goes to the farmer (primary producer). We develop collaborations nationally and internationally to apply innovative solutions to address current challenges and create pioneering innovation in bio-fibers and sustainable practices.
Mission: We work with farmers (primary producers), industry, enterprise, education, general public, media, partners, agencies and research providing organisations and Governments, (nationally and internationally). Our objective is to transform Irish grown wool; an underutilised and undervalued resource, into a branded value-added product for the benefit of primary producers and wider supply chain.
We do this through our expert working groups:
* Research & Development
* Wool Quality & Presentation
* Governance & Funding
* Brand & Marketing
* Education & Outreach
We are a voluntary body with an all-island approach.
Role Summary:
The Chairperson will play a crucial role in leading the organisation, setting strategic direction and ensuring our governance structures and processes operate effectively. As the head of the Board, the Chairperson will facilitate efficient meetings, uphold high standards of governance and represent the organisation at public events and with key stakeholders. The Chair will take the lead in developing and securing funding methods to ensure IGWC is a self-sustaining organisation.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide leadership and direction to the Board and ensure its effectiveness in all aspects of its role
* Ensure the organisation’s governance structure is robust, compliant, and conducive to long-term sustainability
* Facilitate board meetings effectively, ensuring that all decisions are made in the organisation’s best interests
* Represent the organisation at public events, conferences, and meetings with key stakeholders
* Act as a spokesperson for the organisation in conjunction with the Management Committee
* Support and, where appropriate, challenge the Management Committee and ensure that the Board as a whole works in partnership
* Ensure the organisation’s mission and strategies are implemented effectively with clear accountability and measurement of results
* Encourage a culture of openness and debate to foster an inclusive environment within the Board and organisation
* Monitor and evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the Board, promoting self-improvement and team development
Qualifications & Experience:
* Demonstrated leadership experience at a senior level, with experience of a non-profit or related sector
* Knowledge of or experience in the agricultural, environmental, or wool/textile industries is highly desirable
* Proven track record of effective board management and strategic planning
* Strong diplomatic skills and the ability to manage diverse stakeholder relationships
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of representing the organisation publicly
* Commitment to the organisation’s values, including sustainability and engagement
* Experience in governance, with an understanding of legal and financial principles relevant to non-profits
Personal Qualities:
* A strategic thinker with excellent judgement and creative problem-solving skills
* Inspirational leadership style that encourages participation and advocacy
* Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality
* Passionate about sustainable practices and the development of local industries
Benefits:
* Opportunity to lead an innovative new organisation with potential for significant impact
* Engage with a wide network of stakeholders in a vibrant sector
* Contribute to meaningful change in the wool industry in Ireland.
* Develop professional skills and experience in governance and leadership
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV and a covering letter explaining why they are interested in the role and how their skills and experience meet the requirements of this position to catherine@blockcapitals.ie
Deadline for applications: Friday 10th January 2025
Or apply via BoardMatch.ie
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Note: A rolling Chair has been appointed from within the IGWC Management Committee during 2024 in order to provide leadership and momentum to continue our operational and strategic activities as we seek a permanent Chair.