Chief Executive Job Description

Deaf Direct Mission Statement:

To promote independence and equality of opportunity for Deaf & Hard of Hearing people living in the communities of Herefordshire, Oxfordshire and Worcestershire.

Key responsibilities of the role:

This role will report to the Chair of the Board of Trustees and is responsible for the implementation of the above mission statement along with the following key areas of responsibility -

  • To provide leadership, support and advice to the charitable company, its staff and Trustees, and all stakeholders, at a strategic and operational level ensuring that systems and procedures are robust and optimised and meet all regulatory standards so that the charitable company achieves its vision.
  • To ensure there is an achievable long term strategy for the organisation that is regularly reviewed and monitored and in line with the strategic direction agreed by the Board.
  • To promote and develop the charitable company’s reputation and the interests of Deaf people through external relations with all stakeholders.
  • To be accountable for the management and quality of the services as well as looking to identify new opportunities for the organisation.
  • To identify sources of funding to support existing and potential services.
  • To develop a culture of continuous improvement throughout all aspects of the charity’s work.
  • To maintain awareness of risks and changes in the external environment that affects the organisation.
  • To supply regular reports to the trustee board, ensuring they are involved in decision making where appropriate, and attend trustee and sub-committee meetings.
  • To prepare an annual budget for approval by the board of trustees and operate within it.
  • To act as Company Secretary and ensure compliance with the Companies and Charities Acts.
  • To ensure that the company fulfils it’s legal, statutory and regulatory responsibilities.
  • To provide leadership to the Charity and to take responsibility for the effective delivery of all functions.
  • To develop a culture which motivates all staff to enable them to provide a high quality service.
  • To be responsible for coordinating all matters of health & safety and welfare, including administering those policies.
  • To promote and represent Deaf Direct to external bodies and the media.
  • To undertake any other duties requested by the Board of Trustees.

Personal Specification

Those marked with an * are essential, other listed attributes are desirable.

Educational Achievements:

Educated to degree level (although significant relevant experience may compensate).

Qualification in Business Management.

Knowledge, skills & experience:

Significant senior management experience.

Strong leadership style.

Experience in developing and successfully delivering business plans and strategies.

Experience of financial management including budget setting and monitoring income and expenditure.

Knowledge of the issues facing the voluntary sector.

Knowledge of Charity Governance, Policies and statutory requirements.

Experience of working closely with a Board of Trustees and guiding robust decision making.

Knowledge of the issues facing deaf and hard of hearing people.

Excellent communication skills.

Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise multiple tasks.

Ability to work under own initiative and follow direction from the board.

Confidential, tactful and diplomatic.

British sign language level 2 or the ability and commitment to acquire this within 3 years.