The Chair of the Prisoners’ Advice Service Board of Trustees, Martine Lignon, is stepping down after ten years in which PAS has developed its services and achieved financial stability. The Board of Trustees is determined to follow her dedicated leadership by appointing the strongest possible successor. Alongside any nominations and expressions of interest from the current Board, expressions of interest are also invited from the wider community of those with a passion for ‘justice behind bars’ and knowledge and experience of charity governance.
PAS Board meets four times a year and the Chair works alongside the Director to link the work of PAS staff and volunteers with that of the Board. It is important that the Chair also has availability to work with the Vice-Chair, the Treasurer and other trustees, to get to know the small staff team and group of highly motivated volunteers, to liaise with other relevant charities as well as the Charity Commission, and, from time to time, to represent PAS at public events.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading PAS Board of Trustees to enable it to fulfil its charitable purposes according to its governing document.
- Acting as PAS Director’s line-manager and mentor.
- Ensuring Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of PAS.
- Ensuring Trustees have the right skillsets, training and development to support the effective governance of PAS.
- Ensuring the Board regularly and effectively reviews major risks and opportunities and adequately prepares for both.
- Working in close collaboration with the Treasurer and the Vice-Chair.
- Ensuring the Board fulfils its duties to maintain PAS sound financial health, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.
- Ensuring an effective and mutually appreciative relationship between:
- the Board and PAS staff
- the Board and PAS external stakeholders.
- Representing PAS at relevant conferences, events and meetings and, where appropriate, act at PAS spokesperson.
Experience, skills and qualities
- In-depth understanding and appreciation of PAS’ services, achievements and the challenges it may face.
- An absolute commitment to PAS mission of bringing or maintaining ‘Justice behind bars’.
- Experience and knowledge of charity governance and an effective appreciation of the financial, legal and operational responsibilities key to a charity of PAS size.
- An understanding of fundraising and how to influence key stakeholders.
- An overall familiarity with the Criminal Justice System, particularly with prisons and HMPPS (His Majesty Prisons and Probation Service).
- A strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
- A collaborative attitude and willingness to work with others, acting in PAS’ best interest at all times.