Non-Profit Board Member Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era marked by increased philanthropy, the role of non-profit board members has become more significant than ever.

As society evolves, so does the need for dedicated individuals who can guide, support, and fortify the mission of non-profit organizations.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a non-profit board member?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring board member trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A non-profit looking for guidance on selecting the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of non-profit boards,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable non-profit board member job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or organizational websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Non-Profit Board Member Duties and Responsibilities

Non-Profit Board Members are responsible for overseeing the operations of a non-profit organization.

They play a critical role in strategic planning, governance, fundraising, and ensuring the organization adheres to its mission statement.

The duties and responsibilities of a Non-Profit Board Member include:

• Participating in strategic planning and decision-making processes to guide the direction of the organization
• Reviewing and approving annual budgets to ensure financial sustainability
• Fundraising and development efforts to support the organization’s financial health
• Ensuring the organization is compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements
• Recruiting, supervising, evaluating, and if necessary, firing the chief executive
• Reviewing the organization’s mission and services to ensure they align with the needs of the community
• Representing the organization in the community and to stakeholders
• Setting policies and procedures to ensure the effective management of the organization
• Serving on committees or task forces and taking on special assignments
• Assessing the board’s performance to identify areas of improvement

 

Non-Profit Board Member Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated individual to join our non-profit organization as a Board Member.

The successful candidate will be passionate about our mission and keen to make a difference in our community.

As a Board Member, you will be responsible for providing strategic direction, offering financial oversight, and ensuring the organization’s accountability.

You must understand and adhere to legal standards and ethical norms while committing to the organization’s success.

 

Responsibilities

• Participate in strategic planning and decision-making processes
• Approve annual budgets and monitor financial performance
• Ensure legal and ethical integrity and maintain accountability
• Enhance the organization’s public standing by promoting its goals and impact
• Recruit and orient new board members
• Assess the performance of the board and its committees
• Attend and actively participate in board meetings and related events
• Support and evaluate the performance of the executive director
• Lead or serve on committees as needed
• Fundraise and seek out potential donors

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a leadership role
• Understanding of the non-profit sector and specific field of the organization
• Experience with financial planning and strategy
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills
• Ability to interpret financial statements
• Ability to think strategically and critically
• Commitment to the organization’s mission and values
• Ability to dedicate sufficient time to board duties

 

Benefits

• Contributing to a meaningful cause
• Opportunity to influence organizational direction
• Personal and professional development
• Networking opportunities
• Recognition and appreciation of contributions

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Non-Profit Board Member
• Work Environment: This role typically involves a mix of in-person and virtual meetings, with some travel for special events or meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Board Chair.
• Compensation: This is typically a volunteer position, but expenses related to board service may be reimbursed.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Term of Service: Board members typically serve terms of [e.g. 2-3 years], with the option for reappointment.
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity organization and encourage individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Non-Profit Board Member Do?

Non-Profit Board Members are voluntary individuals who are part of the governing body of a non-profit organization.

They oversee the organization’s operations, ensuring it meets its mission and objectives effectively and ethically.

Board members are involved in strategic planning, financial management, and organizational performance evaluation.

They help set the overall direction and policies for the organization, as well as ensure its financial stability and integrity.

They often sit on various committees related to finance, fundraising, human resources, or any other specific areas that need a focus.

They also hire and evaluate the performance of the executive director or CEO, ensuring the organization’s leadership is effective.

Non-Profit Board Members also play a crucial role in fundraising.

They leverage their networks and connections to solicit donations and grants, organize fundraising events, and ensure the organization has adequate resources to carry out its mission.

In addition, they act as ambassadors for the organization, representing it to the public, stakeholders, and potential donors, and promoting its cause and values.

Board members are expected to actively participate in board meetings, make informed decisions, and contribute their expertise and insights for the betterment of the organization.

They are also required to comply with legal and ethical standards, maintaining confidentiality and avoiding conflicts of interest.

 

Non-Profit Board Member Qualifications and Skills

A suitable Non-Profit Board Member must possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with their role in steering the organization towards a sustainable future, such as:

• Sound understanding of the non-profit sector and the specific cause or mission the organization serves.
• Strong leadership skills to make key decisions, guide the organization’s strategic direction, and inspire other board members, staff, and volunteers.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively discuss and negotiate various matters at board meetings, as well as engage with stakeholders, donors, and the community.
• Financial literacy to understand and review the organization’s financial statements, budget, and funding proposals, and make informed decisions that will ensure the organization’s financial health.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to address and manage potential risks, challenges or conflicts that could impact the organization.
• High ethical standards and integrity to maintain the public’s trust, ensure transparency and comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• A network of connections that can be leveraged for fundraising, recruiting volunteers, creating partnerships, and promoting the organization’s cause.
• Ability to commit adequate time and effort to fulfill board responsibilities, including attending board meetings, serving on committees, and participating in fundraising activities.

 

Non-Profit Board Member Experience Requirements

Non-profit Board Members typically possess a high level of experience within the non-profit sector, often gained through volunteering, working, or serving in leadership roles in non-profit organizations.

This exposure to the sector helps them to understand the unique challenges and operational considerations of non-profit organizations.

For entry-level board positions, this may include 1 to 3 years of experience with non-profit work, volunteering, fundraising, or community service.

Those who have previously served on committees or in other less formal roles within the organization may also qualify.

More experienced board members often have between 3 to 5 years of experience, with a background in strategic planning, financial oversight, or organizational leadership.

This experience could be within the same non-profit organization or with different non-profits, and may also include relevant professional experience outside the non-profit sector.

In addition to these experiences, many non-profit boards require their members to have specific expertise in areas relevant to the organization’s mission.

This could include social work, education, healthcare, law, finance, or other fields.

Board members with over 5 years of experience often have proven leadership skills and may have served as board presidents or chairs in the past.

These individuals are usually prepared for higher-level strategic roles and may serve as mentors for less experienced board members.

 

Non-Profit Board Member Education and Training Requirements

Non-profit Board Members typically have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, social work, public administration or another relevant field.

Understanding of non-profit governance and experience in strategic planning, business and organizational development, public policy, marketing or fundraising is highly valued.

A master’s degree in non-profit management, business administration (MBA) or public administration (MPA) may be preferred for larger or more complex organizations.

Non-profit Board Members should also have strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a high degree of ethical standards.

In addition, they must have a passion for and commitment to the non-profit’s cause.

Many aspiring non-profit board members gain experience by volunteering or working in non-profit organizations to understand their unique challenges and dynamics.

There are also numerous certificate programs available that focus on non-profit leadership and governance, which can strengthen a candidate’s qualifications.

Continuing education in the form of seminars, workshops, and conferences on non-profit governance, fundraising strategies, and financial management can be beneficial.

Finally, all board members should possess a willingness for continual learning, as non-profit laws, best practices, and strategies evolve.

 

Non-Profit Board Member Salary Expectations

Non-Profit Board Members often serve on a voluntary basis and therefore may not receive a salary.

However, some non-profits do offer stipends or compensation for expenses incurred during service.

The amount can vary widely based on the organization’s budget and size.

Generally, if a non-profit board member is compensated, it can range from $1,000 to $10,000 (USD) per year.

In large, high-profile organizations, compensation could potentially reach up to $20,000 or more.

It’s important to note that compensation for board members can be a complex issue and is regulated by strict legal and ethical guidelines.

 

Non-Profit Board Member Job Description FAQs

What are the main responsibilities of a Non-Profit Board Member?

Non-Profit Board Members have several duties, including strategic planning, financial oversight, fundraising, and promoting the organization’s mission.

They are also responsible for hiring, evaluating, and, if necessary, firing the executive director.

 

Do Non-Profit Board Members get paid?

Typically, Non-Profit Board Members are not paid for their service.

However, some organizations may provide a stipend to cover expenses related to board duties, such as travel and meals.

Any compensation should be reasonable and must be approved by the board in advance.

 

What skills and experiences should a Non-Profit Board Member have?

A Non-Profit Board Member should have a strong interest in the organization’s mission and a willingness to dedicate their time and energy to the role.

They should possess strong leadership, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills.

Experience in fundraising, financial management, or law can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Non-Profit Board Member resume?

Look for a demonstrated commitment to the cause, evidence of leadership or board service in other organizations, and any relevant professional experience.

Skills such as financial management, strategic planning, fundraising, and public relations are also valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Non-Profit Board Member?

Good Non-Profit Board Members are passionate about the organization’s mission and willing to dedicate their time and energy to fulfill their responsibilities.

They possess strong leadership, strategic thinking, and teamwork skills.

They are also ethical, reliable, and committed to good governance.

 

Can anyone become a Non-Profit Board Member?

While anyone can technically become a Non-Profit Board Member, each organization has its own selection process and criteria.

Often, board members are chosen for their professional expertise, fundraising capabilities, or their passion for the cause.

Some boards may require a financial commitment from board members.

It’s also important to remember that serving on a board is a significant responsibility that requires time, energy, and dedication.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the true essence of being a non-profit board member.

Guess what?

It’s not just about attending meetings.

It’s about shaping the future of your organization, one strategic decision at a time.

With our comprehensive non-profit board member job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully prepared to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to precision-crafted listings or refining your bio to brilliance.

Remember:

Every decision contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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