Role Specification for BFI Governors
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport would like to invite applications for four new Governor roles at the British Film Institute (BFI). We are seeking to create an appropriate balance of skills on the BFI Board and are therefore looking for four candidates covering the following areas of expertise:
1)Practicing Filmmaker
2)Audit, Risk and Governance
3)Fundraising and Ambassadorial
4)Capital Development
Background
UK screen industries are thriving, and after nearly a decade of growth and critical success, this is an exciting time to be joining the BFI's Board of Governors. Last November the BFI launched its new five-year plan, BFI 2022, designed to help shape the organisation's next chapter for film, television, animation and the moving image so the BFI can seize all the opportunities - cultural and economic - that this dynamic arena offers. As the Government's lead agency for the moving image, the BFI has a crucial role to play to ensure that our screen industries continue to go from strength to strength - be that ensuring we have enough skilled workers to meet rising production demands, creating opportunities for young people from all backgrounds to engage with film, or providing expert advice to Government on what the UK's exit from the European Union means for the screen industries. In addition, the Board is essential in ensuring that the BFI continues to drive greater efficiencies and generate more income with the aim of improving sustainability.
Role of BFI Governors
The role of the Governors is primarily to develop BFI strategy, oversee its policy and review procedures, as well as provide constructive challenge to the organisation in order to support it in achieving its strategic aims. Governors participate in the Board’s decision-making processes including preparation for and attendance at all meetings of the Board and any committees. A Governor should have a commitment to the objectives of the BFI, uphold BFI policies and act as an advocate for the BFI, including assistance with activities to generate funding from the corporate sector, trusts and foundations and philanthropy. Furthermore, the Governors will support the BFI to achieve value for money and sustainability across its activities.
Essential requirements
The four roles are set out below. Candidates should be able to demonstrate a proven track record in one of the following areas:
Role 1: Practicing Filmmaker
●a national or international reputation as a practicing filmmaker whether as an actor, director, screenwriter, producer or other significant contributor to the creation of audiovisual content;
●an appreciation of the importance and cultural value of film, TV and the moving image;
●proven record in innovative storytelling across various film and moving image platforms.
Role 2: Audit, Risk and Governance
●recent and relevant finance and accounting skills;
●knowledge of charity finance;
●corporate governance;
●internal/external auditing;
●central government finance and accounting;
●risk management and control.
Role 3: Fundraising and Ambassadorial
●experience of major fundraising campaigns which will be crucial as the BFI embarks upon a major capital campaign (currently in its early stages);
●senior level connections within the cultural sector and excellent networking skills;
●excellent communications and ambassadorial skills.
Role 4: Capital Development
●experience of major capital development projects and property development;
●the ability to guide the Board of Governors through the process for the execution of capital development projects;
●a sound understanding of the construction process associated with large capital projects.
Additional requirements
In addition to the essential skills listed above, the successful candidates will be able to demonstrate the following:
●a knowledge of and commitment to the BFI and support of the purpose and values of the BFI;
●an understanding of the diverse communities in the UK and a real commitment to promoting diversity;
●a knowledge of the screen industries in the nations and regions;
●an understanding of the skills landscape and a commitment to ensuring that the BFI is leading the way for film when it comes to the skills agenda;
●an understanding of the principles of good governance;
●proven ability to take responsibility and demonstrate sound judgement in strategic decision-making and so contribute to the BFI’s strategic development;
●a commitment to actively support the BFI’s fundraising campaigns;
The BFI has a real commitment to diversity and positively encourages applications from people from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates. Applications are also encouraged from candidates based throughout the UK.