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    Checklist: Exploring appropriate roles for the board chair

    Let’s delve deeper into the roles and responsibilities of a Board Chairperson with this checklist.

    Below is a list of possible Board Chairperson roles collected from nonprofit organisations around the world. Indicate which roles you feel might be worth considering for your organisation. 

    1. Representative role as figurehead of the organisation. Active as spokesperson on behalf of the organisation when necessary. This includes attending functions, meetings, etc.
    2. Provides leadership to the board in supporting the goals of the organisation.
    3. Guides the board in fulfilling its stated roles.
    4. Chairs board meetings effectively, assuring adequate discussion of all issues, but keeping the meeting moving.
    5. Utilises the board’s time effectively.
    6. Represents the board in supervising the executive director; will not act on own without board approval or delegated authority.
    7. Develops selected board members to assure future leadership roles on the board.
    8. Is a role model for other volunteers as demonstrated by the way he or she represents the organisation.
    9. Makes sure the board adheres to its bylaws and constitution.
    10. Prepares the board’s meeting agenda with input from board members and the executive director.
    11. Encourages board members to participate in meetings and activities.
    12. Keeps the board’s activities focused on the organisation’s mission.
    13. Evaluates the effectiveness of the board’s decision-making process.
    14. Helps orient board members and committees.
    15. Makes sure there is a process to evaluate the effectiveness of board members.
    16. Recognises board members’ contributions to the board’s work.
    17. Acts as one of the signing officers for checks and other documents, such as contracts and grant applications.
    18. Plays a leading role in fundraising activities.
    19. Promotes the organisation’s purpose in the community.
    20. Prepares a report for the Annual General Meeting.
    21. Ensures appropriate supervision of staff.
    22. Assists with managing the organisation.
    23. Ensures the effective operation of the board.
    24. Coordinates board responsibilities, work, and activities with the chief executive.
    25. Is responsible for guiding the setting of policy.
    26. Is a partner with the executive director in achieving the organisation’s mission.
    27. Encourages board role in strategic planning.
    28. In consultation with the executive director, appoints chairpersons of committees.
    29. Discusses issues confronting the organisation with the executive director.
    30. Helps guide and mediate board actions with respect to organisational priorities and governance concerns.
    31. Monitors financial planning and financial reports.
    32. Evaluates annually the performance of the organisation in achieving its mission.
    33. Performs other responsibilities as assigned by the board.

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