Independent Director (Voluntary Position) – Design Institute of Australia
Location:
18-24 Baillie Street North Melbourne VIC (position is available to work remotely)
About Us:
The Design Institute of Australia (DIA) is Australia's peak industry body for professional designers and represents Australian design and designers both domestically and internationally. With a rich history spanning over 70 years, DIA advocates for designer issues and lead stakeholder initiatives that leverage designers' voices and elevate their contributions. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Independent Director to join our board and contribute to the strategic leadership and governance of our organization.
The Role of the DIA Board:
DIA Directors are responsible for the successful implementation of the National Advisory Council's Strategic vision and objectives with reference to the DIA Vision Statement.
The DIA Board is also responsible for the good governance of the organisation including financial accountability, legal compliance, risk management and privacy obligations. It meets quarterly, and Directors are expected to prepare for and actively participate in meetings and to contribute to Committees as required.
Position Overview:
As an Independent Director, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our organization. This is a voluntary position with a two-year term, with the option for further terms, offering you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the Australian design community while providing strategic guidance and leadership.
Experience in the creative sector will be viewed favourably and the appointment will be made by the current DIA Board.
The DIA aims to achieve a balanced Board with a diverse range of skills and attributes so applications will be considered within the context of the current DIA Board skills matrix which has identified marketing and PR experience as a priority.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide independent and objective input to board discussions and decision-making in accordance with DIA Constitution 2017 and DIA Charter 2021.
Collaborate with fellow board members to set the strategic direction and goals of the organization.
Attend regular board meetings and actively participate in discussions and decision-making processes.
Contribute your expertise and insights to the development of initiatives and programs that advance the design industry.
Act as a liaison between the board and external stakeholders, fostering productive relationships.
Promote and uphold the mission and values of DIA within the design community and beyond.
Qualifications:
Proven experience serving on boards of directors in a similar capacity.
A strong background in business, design, or a related field.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Dedication to fulfilling the responsibilities of the Independent Director position, including regular attendance at board meetings and related duties.
Merit Criteria:
Professional Skills: Financial, legal/governance, communications/media/social media, marketing/PR, IT/Systems, project management and government relations.
Industry Knowledge: Large practice, small practice, strategic thinking, risk management, planning, design industry standing and level of engagement.
Personal Attributes: Leadership, commitment of time and energy, inter-personal and collaborative skills, common sense and sound judgement, decision making skills, integrity and capacity for flexible thinking (visionary).
How to Apply:
If you are a seasoned professional with a passion for the design industry and a commitment to excellence in governance, please submit your resume and a brief statement of interest to ceo@design.org.au by COB on Monday, January 29, 2024. Please include "Independent Director Application - DIA" in the subject line of your email.
A brief cover letter;
A maximum three-page CV; and
A brief description of the contribution you can make as a director, making reference to the merit criteria. (750-word limit).
Note: This is a voluntary position, and no compensation will be provided.
Diversity and Inclusion:
The Design Institute of Australia is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences within the design community. More information can be found in the DIA Annual Report 2023.
Join us in shaping the future of the design industry in Australia as an Independent Director at DIA!