Legal Expertise Trustee

The Organisation

Restorative Justice Services is a company limited by guarantee (CLG) and is a registered charity based in Dublin that works restoratively with people affected by crime.

We are one of the Community Based Organisations which receive funding from the Irish Probation Service to deliver restorative justice programmes and interventions in Dublin, Meath, Wicklow, and Kildare. Our interventions focus on meeting the needs of victims of crime whilst challenging the behaviour of those who offend.

We work collaboratively with statutory and non-statutory organisations, such as an Garda Siochana, community groups and victims’ organisations to achieve our goals.

Restorative Justice Services is seeking a Trustee with legal expertise.

Duties of a Restorative Justice Trustee:

• Ensuring compliance with various statutory requirements for example the Charity Regulator’s Governance Code.
• Attending or contributing to the General Board of Trustees and sub-committee as relevant
• Providing general expertise on all matters relating to corporate governance and any legal relevance to the activities of Restorative Justice Services.
• Ensuring Restorative Justice Services is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit.
• Acting in the best interest of the charity and with a duty of care.

Essential Criteria

• Legal Expertise: The ideal candidate will be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister, with substantial experience working with Boards, either in an executive or non-executive capacity. Familiarity with not-for-profit financials is highly advantageous.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication skills are required to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders, including the CEO, Chairperson, and fellow Board members.
• Experience with Boards: Previous experience in a Board role, whether in an executive or advisory capacity is highly beneficial. The candidate should possess a robust understanding of governance and the dynamics of effective board functioning.
• Time Availability: The candidate must be able to dedicate sufficient time for Board meetings, Sub-committee meetings, as well as occasional events. Must be available to attend in-person meetings as required.
• Strategic Thinking: The successful candidate should demonstrate the ability to think strategically, particularly in advancing organisational goals and driving its growth.
• Compliance: A strong understanding of, and commitment to, ensuring the charity’s operations adhere to governance standards, such as the Charities Regulator›s Governance Code, fundraising principles, and internal controls, is essential.
• Commitment: the charity’s mission and values. Be prepared to serve a 3-year initial term and be open for standing for a second 3-year term. A deep appreciation and knowledge of the Not-For-Profit sector.

Board Meetings

• Board meetings are held approximately every 6 weeks. Meeting dates are agreed at the end of each Board meeting.
• Sub-committee meetings are held between Board meetings and/or as required.
• Meetings are generally online via Zoom. One to two meetings per year may be in-person meetings. Meetings generally last 90 minutes.

Application Process:

Please send a Curriculum Vitae and Cover Letter by 5.00pm Friday 6th December 2024 to Chairperson: chair@rjs.ie