Governance

The governing body has overall responsibility for the organisation. Some members of nonprofit boards may be paid. In charities, they are typically unpaid volunteers and known as trustees. The Chief Executive reports to the board.

The board has several key roles. These include:

• being accountable this includes adherence to the law as well as accountability to a range of interested stakeholders
• setting the framework - a good board shares the leadership and direction of an organisation by ensuring there is a clear framework for its work including values and strategy
• building knowledge and networks - a good board contributes to the organisation by expanding its knowledge and networks
• stewarding resources - the board must ensure that it attracts the resources that it needs, uses the resources wisely and accounts for their use
• acting effectively - an effective board must ensure it works well and brings value to the organisation.

Experiences of governance

We're currently recording a series of podcasts called 'In the Chair' in which Chairs of Boards from a range of organisations will share their experiences.

In the meantime, catch up with the goings on in Millcaster Tales.  

Thinking of becoming a Trustee?

Have a look at comments, podcasts and resources from the Trustee Matching Event in October 2009.

Have your say

Talk to others on the governance forum.

Useful links

• Governance and leadership (NCVO)
• The Good Trustee Guide (NCVO)
• Governance stories - people talking about their experiences
• Governance Pages - resources and FAQs
• Charity Trustee Network (CTN) - support resource and a space to advertise for vacancies
• Trustee Bank (NCVO) - supporting your Trustee recruitment