LOOKING FOR BOARD MEMBERS
We are looking for people with relevant skills or lived experience to join our friendly team and take an active part in the strategic direction and decision-making of Signing Solutions CIC.
Signing Solutions CIC is a small team of staff with a mission to make British Sign Language more mainstream, and to strive for greater inclusion & recognition of the D/deaf community.
We are seeking people with skills and experience in business development and income generation, marketing/PR, legal & governance, but are also keen to find out more about alternative skills and experience candidates have to offer.
This is an unpaid role, however, reasonable travel expenses will be paid for meetings
To arrange an informal chat, please email janetsigningsolutions@gmail.com
Trustee – Director, What’s in a name?
As a Community Interest Company (CIC), Signing Solutions is registered with Companies House and the Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies. As a CIC, we are strategically guided by unpaid Directors.
Signing Solutions is limited by guarantee, meaning that like a charity we cannot make a profit and all monies must be used for the charitable aim of the CIC. You will act as a guarantor for the organisation, meaning that you will pay towards the organisation’s debts in a moral arrangement more than a financial one. The debt our directors will pay is £1 each towards the cost of closing the organisation down should the situation arise.
You are tasked with honest and transparent decision-making and doing the best for the organisation with the knowledge and resources you have at the time of the decision. You are liable for any debts or damages if you have been seen to act negligently. All Directors are responsible for the smooth running of the organisation and ensuring everyone (including themselves and other directors) are acting honestly and effectively. Challenges must be raised if someone isn’t acting in the best interests of the organisation.
Our directors play a very important role in making sure that Signing Solutions CIC is run in the interests of the people it is there to support. They strategically oversee the management and administration of the organisation. They safeguard the organisation’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation. They make sure these are used well and that the organisation is run sustainably.
As a member of our Board of Directors, you will meet three to four times a year.
Whilst all of this may seem very serious and dramatic, it isn’t difficult to do if you follow the simple guidelines. But you do have to think of these things before you enter it. All that being said, it can be extremely rewarding knowing you are making a difference to so many people.
Why become a Director of Signing Solutions CIC?
As a director, you have the chance to support and shape the work and strategic direction of Signing Solutions CIC and make a significant difference.
This means that as an individual, a little contribution can make a big impact. Your attention should be on the purpose of our organisation, the D/deaf community and they will always be our primary focus. However, there are potential outcomes that could give you a sense of satisfaction too.
It offers the opportunity for professional development. It can let you gain experience of strategy and leadership, and boost your CV. It will give you the experience of setting a strategic vision, influencing and negotiating, and managing risk. If you already have significant experience in these areas, it can be stimulating to use it in a different and potentially challenging context.
You will be part of a team and will have the opportunity to apply your unique skills and experience while learning from others. Working closely with a passionate team of people who have different perspectives is often one of the most enjoyable aspects of the role.
