Voluntary Non-Executive Board Member with Legal Expertise

Dyspraxia Ireland; Dublin; On-site; EUR 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization in Dublin is seeking a voluntary Non-Executive Board Director with legal expertise to guide governance and compliance. This role involves providing legal insight, advising the board, and ensuring adherence to charity law. The ideal candidate is a qualified legal professional committed to supporting individuals with Dyspraxia/DCD. Responsibilities include participating in board meetings and championing the organization's objectives. This voluntary position carries a nationwide remit across Ireland.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Travel and subsistence allowances

Qualifications

• Experience in charity law, governance, or company law is desirable.
• Commitment to support individuals with Dyspraxia/DCD.
• Previous board or trustee experience is an advantage but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal insight and guidance on governance, compliance, and risk management.
• Support the board in fulfilling its fiduciary duties under relevant laws.
• Review and advise on legal documents and contracts.
• Act as an ambassador for Dyspraxia DCD Ireland.

Skills

Legal expertise

Governance knowledge

Strong communication skills

Strategic thinking

Education

Qualified legal professional (solicitor, barrister, or equivalent)

Job description

Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland is a registered charity and a not‑for‑profit company limited by guarantee (CLG), with its head office based in Dublin. The organisation is dedicated to increasing awareness of Dyspraxia/DCD and supporting individuals and families affected by the condition. We do this through our clinical programmes, education and training initiatives, and our national information and support helpline.

Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland has a strong ethos of partnership development. We collaborate closely with universities and schools across Ireland and the UK to promote research and best practice. We are proud of our vibrant membership base and the dedication of our volunteers, who play a vital role in advancing the goals and vision of the organisation.

Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland operates in an inclusive and transparent manner, with a strong commitment to good governance. This includes full compliance with the Charities Governance Code and all relevant legislation.

We are currently implementing our Strategic Plan 2025–2027 https://www.dyspraxia.ie/Strategic-Plan and are proud to be a partner organisation with the HSE, as outlined in the HSE National Service Plans for 2024 and 2025 in the provision of paediatric occupational therapy services.

Role Summary

As we expand our service offerings, we are now seeking to appoint a voluntary Non‑Executive Board Director with legal expertise. This individual will contribute to the strategic direction, governance, and legal oversight of Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland, ensuring the organisation operates within its legal and regulatory framework while advancing its mission to support individuals with Dyspraxia/DCD.

The Board Director (Legal) will work closely with the Board Chairperson and the CEO to support the organisation’s legal and governance responsibilities. They will also serve as a key member of the Risk and Compliance Sub‑Committee.

As a non‑executive board member, the Board Director (Legal) shares collective responsibility and decision‑making with other board members. They will play an important role in helping fellow board members understand legal information and its implications.

General Trustee Duties

• Comply with the Charity’s governing document
• Ensure charity is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit
• Act in the best interest of the charity
• Act with Reasonable Care and Skill
• Manage the assets of the charity

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal insight and guidance on governance, compliance, and risk management.
• Support the board in fulfilling its fiduciary duties under the Companies Act and Charities Act.
• Review and advise on legal documents, contracts, and policies as needed.
• Ensure the organisation adheres to relevant legislation, including charity law, GDPR, and employment law.
• Contribute to strategic planning and decision‑making.
• Act as an ambassador for Dyspraxia DCD Ireland, promoting its values and objectives.
• Attend board meetings and participate in subcommittees where appropriate.

Person Specification

• Qualified legal professional (solicitor, barrister, or equivalent).
• Experience in charity law, governance, or company law is desirable.
• Commitment to the mission of Dyspraxia DCD Ireland.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills.
• Ability to think strategically and contribute constructively to board discussions.
• Previous board or trustee experience is an advantage but not essential.

Board Meetings

Typically, there are six (6) board meetings and approximately three to four (3 to 4) of each sub‑committee meetings per year. Board meetings are currently held via teleconference with the option to meet in person in Dublin 1–2 times per year. Sub‑committee meetings may be arranged via video call or in person as appropriate.

Board Directors are not remunerated, but reasonable travel and subsistence allowances are paid. Openness and transparency are key requirements so all potential conflicts of interest must be declared on application.

This role is in a voluntary capacity and carries an all of Ireland remit.

Equal Opportunities

Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland is committed to equal opportunities and all volunteer recruitment decisions will be based on merit, suitability for the role and experience. We welcome diversity within our organisation and ensure that recruitment decisions are not influenced by race, religion, gender, disability, age or ethnicity.

Our Commitment to You

• Provide induction and training to support you in your new role.
• A collaborative work environment with talented people who are committed to achieving the best outcomes for our members and clients.
• Professional development opportunities to help you attain your goals and objectives as a Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland volunteer.
• Recognise and respect your value within our organisation.
• Recognise that you are a volunteer and have other commitments.
• Listen to your concerns if things are not going well.

Application Process

If you feel you could make a difference to the lives of the many people we support while building your skills and being part of a dynamic and engaged board of management then we would love to hear from you.

For further information or to express interest, please contact the Chairperson, James Tone, at: [e-mail]

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