The Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre is advertising this position on behalf of Special Olympics Melbourne Inner East (MIE).

The MIE Chair plays a pivotal role in leading our club, shaping its strategic direction, promoting inclusion through sports, ensuring community engagement and fostering a supportive environment and wellbeing for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID). This volunteer position requires a passion for inclusion, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to the mission of Special Olympics Australia (SOA).

Fundamental to the success of the role will be the ability to drive a culture of strong governance that ensures agreed outcomes are delivered for the MIE.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated leadership experience in business, or an equivalent organisation, with a proven track record in developing strong working relationships across a broad spectrum of stakeholders.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and communicate a vision for MIE, aligned with the broader goals of SOA.
• Work with the Committee and stakeholders to develop and implement strategic plans to advance MIE's mission.
• Chair committee meetings, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among committee members.
• Facilitate the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure the club's compliance with SOA guidelines.
• Oversee the development and implementation of sports programs, regional competitions and social events that cater to individuals with ID.
• Collaborate with volunteers and coaches to ensure inclusive and accessible sports opportunities.
• Act as an advocate for individuals with ID and promote MIE's activities within the community.
• Build positive relationships with families, carers, and local organisations to enhance MIE's impact.
• Collaborate with the fundraising sub-committee to develop and implement strategies to secure financial support for the club.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities to fund MIE's programs and initiatives.
• Collaborate and provide oversight to the communications sub-committee to ensure communications are in alignment with MIE and SOA messaging and deliver on the communications strategy.
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers to ensure the successful operation of club activities and events.
• Foster a positive and inclusive volunteer culture that aligns with the values of Special Olympics.
• Promote the empowerment of athletes with ID by proactively creating opportunities for leadership, skill development, and personal growth.
• Ensure that athletes are central to decision-making processes within MIE.
• Prepare regular reports for the Committee and SOA on the club's activities, achievements, and challenges.
• Ensure compliance with SOA's policies and guidelines.

COMPETENCIES & SKILLS:

• Strong leadership, business networking, negotiation and presentation skills
• Excellent planning, organisation, interpersonal and communication skills
• Possess business acumen, vision and strategic planning abilities
• Understanding of the needs and challenges of individuals with intellectual disability.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including athletes, families, volunteers, and community partners.
• Commitment to the principles of inclusion and diversity
• Strong attention to detail and time management skills
• Good computer literacy with standard business software (e.g. Microsoft Office)

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:

• Minimum of 3 years relevant experience in relevant business or leadership experience
• Previous experience as a chair or vice chair in a comparable organisation (desirable)
• Previous experience with a not for profit or disability organisation (desirable)

KEY TASKS:

• Chair club committee meetings ensuring that they are run efficiently and effectively
• Deliver on MIE's development objectives within agreed budgets
• Work collaboratively with SOA staff and the State Committee to ensure alignment of MIE's priorities with the broader organisation
• Proactively represent MIE in both internal and external settings
• Assist in the development of partnerships, funding agencies, local government and other organisations relevant to MIE's goals.
• Focus on athlete outcomes by ensuring that necessary skills are developed and used within MIE's structure.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:

• Minimum of 10 Committee meetings held annually
• Successful operational development of MIE with measurable outcomes delivered within budget
• Demonstrable support from local organisations to develop athlete sporting opportunities
• Communicate regularly and systematically with SOA and State.
• Proactively take every opportunity to represent the Club and communicate with members.
• Agreed funding targets are achieved and deeper engagement of partners demonstrated.
• Regular focus on Club roles and requirements to ensure the necessary skills are represented with succession planning.