Transparency data

Appendix 6: Board Member Profile

Updated 25 October 2023

Applies to England and Wales

© Crown copyright 2023

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/charity-commission-governance-framework/appendix-6-board-member-profile

1. The role of the Board

The Board provides leadership for the Commission’s business and sets the strategic direction of the organisation. It operates collectively, advising on strategic matters, as well as scrutinising and challenging Commission policy and performance, with a view to the long-term health and success of the organisation.

2. The role of Board Members

Charity Commission Board Members:

  • ensure that the Commission effectively fulfils its statutory objectives, general functions and duties and appropriately exercises its legal powers

  • set the strategic direction of the Commission; set and agree overall policy and performance targets

  • promote the strategy, values and reputation of the Commission

  • approve the Commission’s budget and business plans, and set the risk framework and policies within which the Executive operate

  • monitor the Executive’s performance against agreed plans and targets

  • exercise their role through influence and advice, supporting as well as challenging the executive on performance and the effective management of the Commission

  • operate in accordance with governance best practice, including understanding and abiding by the Charity Commission Governance Framework

  • ensure they have sufficient knowledge and understanding of the Charity Commission’s business to carry out their duties

  • ensure they are familiar with any applicable guidance on the role of public sector non-executive directors and boards that may be issued from time to time by the Cabinet Office, HM Treasury or wider government

3. Appointment

Members of the Board are appointed following fair and open competition by the Secretary of State. 

4. Time commitment

The expected time commitment for Board members is up to 24 days a year.

Board Members should seek to make themselves available for training or briefing sessions where these will be of benefit to them in carrying out the functions of the Board. They may also be asked to provide, outside of routine meetings, advice or guidance on ad hoc matters from time to time as they arise.

5. Conflicts of interest

If, during their period of appointment, a Board Member’s personal circumstances change in any way that may provide a conflict of interest for them in their role, they must declare the circumstances to the Chair of the Board by email, copying in the Board Secretary.

6. Conduct

Board members shall:

7. Appraisal

The appraisal of the performance of each Board member in their role as a member of the Charity Commission will be conducted annually by the Chair of the Commission, in line with the agreed policy and process.

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