Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with Smith-Magenis Syndrome? Do you have expertise in legal, health and/or social care, fundraising, events, or governance? We are seeking dedicated and dynamic professionals to join The SMS Foundation Board of Trustees and help guide our mission, provide support, and raise awareness.
Job Title: Board Member
Organisation: SMS Foundation UK
Location: Remote
Commitment: Part-time, Voluntary
About Us
The SMS Foundation UK is a small charity that supports families living with Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) in the UK. SMS is a rare condition that occurs once in every 15-25,000 births. People with SMS have complex needs and behaviours, along with a learning disability that can range from mild to profound. It is a lifelong condition that will always need extra support.
As well as helping families that live with the syndrome we also work with and support a variety of professionals who treat, educate, and care for people with SMS. We help and support families and professionals in a variety of ways, including:
- Activities and Events
- Information & Literature
- Emotional Support & Advice
- Support for Newly Diagnosed
- Professional Advice & Networks
- Support research into SMS
Our purpose is to improve the quality of life of everyone living with SMS through awareness, understanding, and a supportive community. We aim to achieve this by ensuring that every person with SMS is surrounded by caregivers and professionals who are well-equipped and empowered to meet their unique needs.
Role Overview
As a board member, you will play a crucial role in the governance and strategic direction of the SMS Foundation UK. You will ensure the charity is well-managed, financially secure, and effectively meeting its goals. This is a voluntary position that requires a commitment to our cause and a willingness to actively contribute to the charity’s success.
Board members share formal responsibility for the charity and must act in its best interests, regardless of how they’re appointed. As a small charity, there will be times when board members will need to be actively involved beyond board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the board member has special expertise.
Key Responsibilities
- Governance and Leadership
- Attend and actively participate in board meetings (typically 4 times per year)
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the charity’s strategic plan
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
- Collaborate with fellow board members and the executive team to uphold our values, vision, and mission
- Leverage your professional skills and networks to support our goals
- Financial Oversight
- Monitor the financial health of the charity, ensuring effective management of resources
- Approve budgets, financial plans, and annual reports
- Ensure proper financial controls and procedures are in place
- Fundraising and Advocacy
- Support fundraising initiatives and help identify potential funding opportunities
- Act as an ambassador for the charity, raising awareness and promoting its work
- Engage with stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, and partners
- Advocate for the SMS Foundation and help raise its profile within your professional community
- Risk Management
- Identify and assess potential risks to the charity
- Develop and implement strategies to mitigate risks
- Operational Support
- Provide guidance and support to the senior management team and volunteers
- Participate in sub-committees or working groups as needed
Qualifications and Experience
- A strong commitment to the mission and values of the SMS Foundation UK
- Desirable experience in one or more of the following areas: finance, legal, fundraising, health and/or social care, events, or governance
- Previous experience as a trustee or board member is desirable but not essential
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to think strategically and contribute to the development of long-term plans
- Understanding of the voluntary sector and the challenges faced by small charities
Personal Attributes
- Willingness and ability to understand and accept responsibilities as a board member and to act in the best interests of the organisation
- Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member
- Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion
- A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
- Enthusiasm for our vision and mission
- Willingness to lead according to our values
- Empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with rare conditions and their families
Why Join Us?
- Impact: Play a crucial role in improving the lives of individuals with SMS and their families
- Networking: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your network
- Personal Growth: Develop your leadership skills and gain experience in the nonprofit sector
- Fulfillment: Be part of a passionate and dedicated team committed to making a real difference
Time Commitment
- Attendance at 4 board meetings per year, plus preparation time
- Participation in additional meetings or events as required
- Estimated total time commitment: 4-6 hours per month
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining our Board of Trustees and contributing to the success of The SMS Foundation UK, please complete a form (link below).