Board FAQs
The specifics of being a Board member will vary between organisations, and between the type of organisation (such as public, private and third sector). Corporate governance in the UK is overseen by the Financial Reporting Council. Charities in Wales report to the Charity Commission.
However some general principles apply to all organisations.
What is a Board?
A Board is collectively responsible for directing the organisation’s activities, while meeting the appropriate interests of service users, shareholders or other people served by the organisation. In the case of a public body the main responsibility is often to service users, with an additional responsibility to comply with expectations of the relevant Minister via a remit letter
What are the roles and responsibilities of a Board member?
- Ensuring that the organisation meets its legal and regulatory duties
- Ensuring that the organisation is effectively and responsibly governed
- Performing their duties with dilligence, turning up for meetings and carrying out designated actions
How is a Board structured?
A Board typically has a Chair, and will often have a Deputy Chair, and Committees (such as audit and remuneration) which carry out specific tasks on behalf of the Board. There may be other positions depending on the organisation; for example to address issues of the workforce, or an identified means to address whistle-blowing.
What is the difference between an executive and a non-executive Director?
An executive Director is typically employed to carry out duties on behalf of the organisation. A non-executive Director is usually a part-time role that facilitates a more strategic and long-term perspective. Both positions hold legal responsibility on behalf of the organisation.
The Institute of Directors has a comprehensive description of the role of a non-executive Director.