Sample Board Member Job Description

Board Member Job Description

Board Member Job Description Template

It can be challenging to find and recruit the right candidates for your board. Use this sample board member job description to set expectations for individuals and the board as a whole. Or share with your board as you begin your recruitment process.

Responsibilities of the Board

The mission of [insert organization name] is to [insert mission].

As the highest leadership body of the organization and to satisfy its fiduciary duties, the board is responsible for

  • determining the mission of the organization and understanding its collective purpose
  • selecting, supporting, and evaluating the performance of the chief executive
  • strategic and organizational planning
  • ensuring strong fiduciary oversight and financial management
  • fundraising and resource development
  • approving and monitoring the organization’s programs and services
  • enhancing the organization’s public image
  • assessing its own performance as the governing body of the organization
  • ensuring legal and ethical integrity

Responsibilities of Individual Board Members

Each individual board member is expected to

  • know the organization’s mission, policies, programs, and needs as well as understand its collective purpose
  • faithfully read and understand the organization’s financial statements and board materials in advance of meetings
  • serve as active advocates and ambassadors for the organization
  • fully engage in identifying and securing the financial resources and partnerships necessary for the organization to advance its mission
  • leverage connections, networks, and resources to develop collective action to achieve the organization’s mission
  • give a meaningful personal financial donation
  • help identify personal connections that can benefit the organization’s fundraising and reputational standing, and influence public policy
  • prepare for, attend, and conscientiously participate in board meetings
  • participate fully in one or more committees or taskforces
  • engage in learning opportunities to better understand the community we serve
  • respect the experiences of all who bring their voices and lived experiences into the boardroom and the organization

Other responsibilities of nonprofit board members

  • uphold the legal duties and laws regarding nonprofit governance
  • follow the organization’s bylaws, policies, and board resolutions
  • sign an annual conflict-of-interest disclosure and update it during the year if necessary, as well as disclose potential conflicts before meetings and actual conflicts during meetings
  • maintain confidentiality about all internal matters of the organization

 

101 Resource | Last updated: July 10, 2023