Expressions of Interest for New Chair of the Board of Directors of Poetry Ireland
Introduction
Poetry Ireland, a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity, is seeking applications for a new Chair of the Board of Directors. Established in 1978, Poetry Ireland connects poetry and people. We are committed to achieving excellence in the reading, writing and performance of poetry throughout the island of Ireland. Poetry Ireland receives support from the Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon; the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and we enjoy rewarding partnerships with arts centres, festivals, schools, colleges and bookshops at home and abroad. Our commitment to creating performance and publication opportunities for poets at all stages of their careers helps ensure that the best work is made available to the widest possible audience, securing a future for Irish poetry
that is as celebrated as its past.
2025 will make a significant milestone for Poetry Ireland with the opening of Poetry Ireland House at No. 11 Parnell Square East, Dublin. This significant conservation-led project marks the beginning of a
new chapter for the iconic Georgian building and Poetry Ireland as we create an inclusive cultural centre dedicated to celebrating and sharing Irish poetry, heritage and culture with the public. The key elements of this project will be the establishment of the Seamus Heaney Poetry Library, a dedicated performance and event space and a community engagement/workshop space.
The Role
We are seeking a new Chairperson who will lead and guide the organisation as we embark upon this exciting next phase of the organisation’s development. We are interested in candidates who are passionate about the arts and believe in the importance of poets and poetry as a vital part of our culture and society. We are seeking candidates with integrity and governance expertise, who understand our sector, its culture, people and processes, and who can provide Poetry Ireland with the inspirational and energizing leadership needed to help us deliver on the ambition of our vision and mission. The candidate will combine good judgement with excellent strategic and diplomatic skills, with the proven capacity to manage complex stakeholder relationships and partnerships, working closely with the executive team. A strong understanding of governance and regulatory issues relevant to the arts/not-for-profit sector is desirable as well as a good network of contacts with a view to leveraging fundraising potential.
Remuneration
There is no financial remuneration for the role of Chair, although travel expenses may be claimed.
Location
The Poetry Ireland offices are temporarily located in 3 Great Denmark Street, Dublin 1 while the refurbishment is taking place. Board meetings are conducted both in-person and online.
Time Commitment
Approximately 6 meetings per year which includes the Annual General Meeting and an annual Board/Staff Away Day. The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Director and may be required to represent the organisation at key events and meetings with stakeholders.
Responsibilities of the Chair
Leadership: Providing consensus driven strategic direction and leadership to the board and executive and to the organisation as a whole. Fostering a positive and inclusive board culture that encourages participation, constructive debate and collaboration where all directors are given an opportunity to contribute.
Board Management: Chairing board meetings and ensure they are effective and focused on key issues. Ensuring that the board operates within its governance framework and adheres to legal and regulatory requirements. Facilitating the development and evaluation of the board, including recruitment and training of new directors to ensure that the Board has the requisite skills to enable the achievement of the strategic aims of Poetry Ireland. Support the Director, whilst respecting the boundaries which exist between the two roles, maintain an open and supportive relationship within which each can speak openly about concerns, worries and challenges.
Strategic Planning: Provide leadership to Poetry Ireland and the Board, ensuring that the organisation is best placed to deliver on the ambition of its strategic plan, and to work with the Board and Director to safeguard its sustainability and stability into the future.
Representation: acting as a key representative and spokesperson for Poetry Ireland, where appropriate, promoting its mission and values to stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, and the public. Building and maintaining relationships with external partners, funders, and the community.
Financial Oversight: Ensuring the board is informed about Poetry Ireland’s financial status and oversees the financial health of the organisation. Working with the executive to ensure proper financial management and that appropriate financial controls are in place.
Performance Monitoring: Monitoring the performance of Poetry Ireland against its objectives and ensuring accountability with clear boundaries between governance, management and operations. Appraise the performance of the Board on an annual basis and ensure membership is regularly refreshed and incorporates the ideal balance of skills, knowledge, diversity and experience needed to govern and lead Poetry Ireland effectively.
Governance and Risk Management: Ensuring that Poetry Ireland has appropriate procedures and policies and resources to identify and manage risks effectively whil epromoting a culture of compliance and ethical behaviour within the organisation.
Conflict Resolution: Mediating conflicts as they arise at Board or with stakeholders ensuring a constructive and positive approach to any disagreements.
Qualities and Experience
Leadership Skills: The ability to inspire and motivate others, providing clear direction and vision.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities to effectively engage with various stakeholders.
Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build relationships, network, and work collaboratively with diverse groups.
Strategic Thinking: Capacity to think critically and creatively about Poetry Ireland’s future direction.
Governance Knowledge: Understanding of charity governance frameworks and legal responsibilities.
Financial Acumen: Competence in financial management and oversight, with an ability to interpret financial reports.
Application Process
Prospective candidates are asked to submit a CV or biography including relevant roles and responsibilities either from your full-time employment or from roles as a Board Director, Trustee, Chairperson in a community/voluntary/commercial organisation. This should be accompanied by a cover letter outlining your interest in Poetry Ireland, why you would like to take on the role of Chairperson and what you can bring to the organisation.
Please submit to: recruitment@poetryireland.ie with the subject matter Chair Of Poetry Ireland application on the email.
Applicants will be shortlisted for interview and closing date for receipt of applications is September 20th, 2024.
Download Full Specification for the role of Chair of Poetry Ireland Here.