A vacancy has arisen for IFST’s Independent Assessor. IFST would like to pass on thanks to Maureen Edmondson FIFST, who is standing down, for her generous support of the Institute through this role and in so many other ways. The Board invites Members (MIFST) and Fellows (FIFST) who are interested in becoming the Institute’s Independent Assessor to put themselves forward for consideration by the Nominations Committee and ultimately by the Board.
The Independent Assessor provides an independent check and balance on behalf of the members to ensure that the Institute operates as effectively as possible and in line with its charitable object as stated within its constitution. Whilst the Charity is required by law to be formally audited on an annual basis by external independent auditors, this role helps to ensure that any issues relating to its activities are picked up and brought to the attention of the Board of Trustees so that any corrective actions can be taken in a timely manner.
Where possible, the Independent Assessor will attend (as an observer) Board meetings (up to 6 per year) and Finance Committee (normally 1 of the 4 meetings per year). Other assessments of governance committees will be predominantly via the committees’ written summaries and formal minutes, as the Independent Assessor deems necessary, to appraise their function. The Independent Assessor reports to members in advance of each Annual General Meeting, providing an internal but independent critique of the Institute's effectiveness, especially appraising its delivery of public benefit.
Nominees are expected to have experience or understanding in some, or all, the following areas:
- An understanding of charity/company governance
- Previous Board member (but not immediately)
- Alternatively, experience as a Trustee or Non-Executive Director in another organisation and knowledge/experience of IFST and its governance.
If you would like to be considered, please submit a CV and a short (300 words max) supporting statement to Hayley Mahon, HR and Operations Manager via h.mahon@ifst.org by 16:00 on 18 November 2024.