Climate Action Network Australia is a volunteer-based Board that is values-aligned, diverse and skilled. There will be 3 vacant positions for appointment at CANA's Annual General Meeting in October 2021.

CANA strives to have a Board with experience and sound governance skills; and illustrates cultural, age, gender, linguistic and geographical diversity of the Australian climate movement. It is expected that successful candidates are able to dedicate at least one day a month for meetings and out-of-session work. Board members may be based anywhere in Australia.

CANA is seeking suitably qualified Board members, and is specifically interested in individuals with competencies and experience in the following areas: legal, finance, partnerships, fundraising or governance.

CANA supports the Australian climate movement to achieve real action on global warming. We operate behind the scenes to drive strategic thinking and campaign collaboration between members including Australia Youth Climate Coalition, Greenpeace, The Wilderness Society, the Australian Conservation Foundation, WWF, Oxfam, 350.org, Solar Citizens, health and faith networks, trade unions, think tanks and many more. The small staff team are located in Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane, with additional board members in Melbourne.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Actively participate in strategic planning and evaluate strategic opportunities aligned with the current strategic plan as they arise.
2. Appoint and oversee the Executive Director.
3. Monitor the organisation’s performance, with a focus on risk.
4. Approve annual budget, business plan, audit reports, and material business decisions.
5. Be informed about and ensure that CANA meets all legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
6. Actively promote and represent CANA to potential donors and/or members.
7. Regularly attend Board meetings and important related meetings and activities.
8. Serve on at least one Board Committee.
9. Stay informed about Board and Committee matters, prepare for meetings, and review and comment on minutes and reports.
10. Build a collegial working relationship that contributes to robust consensus building.

QUALITIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• Demonstrated interest or understanding in the roles and responsibilities of a Board;
• Strong communication, interpersonal and people skills;
• Critical thinking skills;
• Financial literacy;
• Tact and diplomacy;
• Personal commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion;

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

• An understanding of membership-based organisations;
• Familiarity with climate change issues;
• History of working on climate change issues in Australia in either a civil society, business or government capacity, and a strong existing network of relationships.
• Previous governance experience on boards and/or completion of equivalent qualifications to the AICD’s Company Director’s course.

TIME COMMITMENT

CANA Board meetings are conducted virtually every two months with sub-committee meetings occurring in the alternating months. In-person strategy weekends are held twice a year. The role of a Board member requires a minimum commitment of 8hrs/month.

The appointment is for a two-year term and Board Members may be eligible for re-appointment for an additional three terms. Service on CANA’s board is without remuneration, except for travel and accommodation where required.

Board members may be based anywhere in Australia.