Chairperson

Reynard Street Neighbourhood House is an incorporated, not-for-profit organisation in South West Coburg, in the City of Merri-bek. We aim to promote community wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and support and encourage an inclusive, empowered and resilient local neighbourhood. Founded in 1988, Reynard Street Neighbourhood House (formerly named Robinson Reserve Neighbourhood House) is managed by a Committee of Management made up of local residents who have an interest in the community. We receive funding from various sources including Merri-bek City Council and the Victorian Government to assist us in the running of programs and activities.

Vision

To be a vital hub for a happy, healthy, vibrant and inclusive Merri-bek community

Mission

To improve the wellbeing of our community and build a strong neighbourhood by being a welcoming place where everyone can learn, connect and play.

Values

Our values underpin everything we do. In our work we aim for:

• Sustainability – financial sustainability and a minimal ecological footprint, with an emphasis on innovation and continuous improvement.
• Inclusion – we value diversity and recognise, respect and welcome all people equally.
• Integrity – on an organisational and personal level we maintain high standards and our operations are honest, ethical and transparent.
• Respect – for ourselves, each other and the natural environment. We act with care.
• Community connectedness – engagement with the local service system and strong links with organisations and service providers to meet community needs.

Position Description

The Chairperson has a strategic role to play in representing the vision and purpose of the organisation.  The Chairperson ensures that the CoM functions properly, that there is full participation at meetings, all relevant matters are discussed and that effective decisions are made and carried out.  Our CoM consists of at least five volunteers elected at the Annual General Meeting of RSNH by those members of our Association (House members) who attend the AGM on the day.

The CoM provides RSNH with community “governance”, which includes developing strategic plans, policies, permanent staff appointment, monitoring finances and overseeing delivery of legal and contractual obligations. The CoM acts as the voice of our membership in line with the aims and objectives detailed in our Constitution. The Committee is required to meet a minimum of six times per year, but currently meets monthly on a Tuesday evening from 5.30pm.

Key Requirements

• Planning and running meetings in accordance with the governing document. Including developing the agenda for monthly meetings, in consultation with the House Manager and CoM members;
• Moderating CoM meetings to ensure that they are constructive, efficient and respectful;
• Bringing impartiality and objectivity to meetings and decision-making;
• Managing the CoM recruitment and induction process;
• Communicating, both internally and externally, the culture and philosophy of the organisation;
• Promoting the development of a positive CoM culture;
• Maintaining a good working relationship with the House Manager, including regular 1:1 meetings;
• Helping to devise and implement a CoM succession plan; and
• Reviewing the performance of board members;
• Developing, reviewing and ensuring the implementation of RSNH’s policies and procedures;
• Supporting the Manager in the recruitment, direction and supervision of staff where appropriate;
• Ensuring the House’s Strategic Plan and Operational Plan are reviewed and updated at least once/year, together with the CoM and relevant staff
• Managing any organisational risks – both financial and non-financial – together with the rest of the CoM and House Manager, as appropriate;
• Collaborating with other Neighbourhood Houses, the local Networker, and Neighbourhood Houses Victoria, in consultation with the CoM and House Manager, as appropriate;
• Visiting the House during business hours on a regular basis, to build understanding of the House’s operations;
• Other duties as and when they arise.

Desired Skills/Requirements

• Good leadership skills
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidence
• Ability to ensure decisions are taken and followed-up
• Good time-keeping
• Tact and diplomacy
• Understanding of the roles/responsibilities of a management committee
• Experience of organisational and people management
• Knowledge of Neighbourhood Houses or Non-profit organisations
• Attendance at CoM meetings and at events of the organisation

Experience in any of the following

• Management
• Governance/Strategic planning
• Marketing/Promotions
• HR
• Finances
• Fundraising
• Administration and Operations
• Legal frameworks/policy-making

Other Board and Committee experience is desirable

Additional requirements

• Working with Children Check
• National Police Check