Role: Non-Executive Chair
Location: Flexible
Reports to: Executive Committee
Length of term: Three years (with 6-month probation)
About Wales Lacrosse
Wales Lacrosse is the national governing body for the sport of lacrosse in Wales and is responsible for leading, developing and governing the sport throughout the country. Wales Lacrosse provides opportunities for players, coaches and officials to engage with the sport at international level, as well as building links within the lacrosse community in Wales.
Role purpose
The Chair of Wales Lacrosse will lead oversight of the governance, financial management and overall administration of the organisation. They will chair the Executive Committee, and work closely with the CEO and all members of the Committee to ensure that Wales Lacrosse works effectively to deliver its objectives and grow the game of lacrosse in Wales.
The Chair will work to implement and review the strategic plan, and lead board members, staff and membership to continue to cultivate and develop the sport. The Chair will set the tone and future ambitions for the organisation, particularly with the increased profile of the sport in the build up to the Olympics in 2028 [note: BOA engagement is led by British Lacrosse]. The Chair will manage relations with key stakeholders including members, clubs, schools, universities, Sport Wales, our colleagues in the home nations, British Lacrosse, European Lacrosse Federation and World Lacrosse.
Responsibilities
Provide effective leadership of the Board and the affairs of Wales Lacrosse
Ensure the governance of Wales Lacrosse is efficient, effective and fit-for-purpose
Support the delivery and evolution of Wales Lacrosse's strategic plans
Lead the review of those strategic objectives from time to time to assess progress and ensure that they are still appropriate
Preside over Board meetings, ensuring discussions are focused and productive and that members of the Committee are fully involved
Build a strong and cohesive board, facilitating robust discussion and debate
Establish a sub-committee structure with clear Terms of Reference to ensure that all areas have appropriate oversight and expertise
Scrutinise performance and decisions taken by the Board and/or sub committees to meet agreed targets, monitoring, assessing and reducing any potential risks
Set the tone for ethical behaviour, integrity and professionalism within the Board and organisation by upholding a culture of open communication and collaboration
Liaise with the Finance Director to ensure that funds are spent properly in the best interests of the sport, and accounted for transparently
Help to prepare and submit any statutory documents that are required including annual reports and audits Reviewed: October 2024
Lead the appraisal of the CEO and members of the Executive Committee's performance on an annual basis, ensuring they are held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives
Act as an ambassador for Wales Lacrosse, representing Wales Lacrosse's interests to all stakeholders and acting as a spokesperson where appropriate
Knowledge and experience that would be advantageous
Previous experience of working in a non-executive role, ideally within a national governing body
Previous Chair experience would be welcome, but is not essential
Excellent credentials in governance matters at Board or executive level
An understanding of the role of the Chair and their legal duties and responsibilities
Proven ability to lead and work effectively as part of a diverse team
Experience within the Volunteer Sector
Some knowledge of lacrosse would be advantageous, as would a personal connection to Wales
Skills that would be advantageous
Excellent planning, organisational and stakeholder management skills
Good strategic vision
Ability to receive input and advice and to exercise independent judgement
Corporate and political networking ability, particularly within Wales
Diplomacy with good ambassadorial skills
An excellent communicator, both written and verbal with an ability to negotiate and influence
Comfortable addressing and dealing with the media
Personal Qualities
Professional and accountable
Strong integrity
Independent thinker
Ambitious, engaging and collaborative
Strategic leader
Supportive of other Directors and members of Wales Lacrosse
Ability to listen sensitively to the views of others and respect confidentiality and sensitive situations
A commitment to the growth and development of lacrosse in Wales
Key relationships
CEO; Treasurer; Executive Assistant to the Board; Safeguarding Officer; Chairs of other Home Nations, Governing Bodies of Lacrosse: British Lacrosse, Sport Wales, Welsh Sports Association
Remuneration
This position is unpaid. However, Wales Lacrosse will reimburse reasonable expenses, including appropriate travel, subsistence and accommodation.
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