Calling for applications for new non-executive directors
19 February 2020 at 9:00 am
In view of the imminent retirement of two of our non-executive directors in accordance with our governance practice, the Board of the Centre for Environmental Rights wishes to appoint two new non-executive directors, one of whom will head the Board’s Finance & Audit Committee.
The Centre for Environmental Rights NPC is a non-profit public interest environmental law organisation of activist lawyers working with communities and civil society organisations in South Africa to realise our Constitutional right to a healthy environment by advocating and litigating for environmental justice. We seek a just, equitable, compassionate society which is resilient, celebrates diversity, and respects the inter-dependence between people and the environment.
The Centre for Environmental Rights invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of non-executive directors of the organisation. The appointed directors must understand how activism, legal advocacy and litigation contributes to social and environmental justice, and be committed to promoting and defending the role of civil society, community organisations and activists in realising environmental and other human rights.
The Centre and its Board are committed to the highest standards of governance, and to a board of directors which has the appropriate balance of knowledge, skills, experience, diversity and independence to enable it to discharge its governance roles and responsibility objectively and effectively.
The appointed directors should possess the qualifications, skills, expertise and commitment which will support the organisation in achieving its objectives. Suitably qualified candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas of expertise, are encourage to apply:
- Financial management and audit requirements
- Fundraising expertise and experience
- Strategic communications and/or public relations
- Board membership of non-profit companies
- Academic credentials in the areas of financial management, environmental law and governance, public interest law and/or social justice
Like the organisation, the Board of the Centre for Environmental Rights is committed to diversity, inclusion and transformation and strives to reflect South Africa’s racial, cultural, sex and gender diversity. Black and women candidates, as well as candidates younger than 40, are strongly encouraged to apply for this post, and will be preferred.
Candidates must have a clear understanding of the fiduciary duties of a director, and demonstrate the following personal characteristics:
- Integrity: Have experience in a position of trust requiring him or her to act in good faith, avoid conflicts of interest, and display the highest standards of honesty and integrity within and outside the organisation.
- Independence: Be able to exercise judgment independently of any stakeholder outside of the Centre for Environmental Rights, and not occupy any political office (in any political party) or occupy a position in any sphere of government.
- Competence: The nominated directors must have obtained a degree or equivalent qualification and have demonstrable practical knowledge and experience relevant to the role.
Non-executive director positions are not remunerated, but all reasonable and agreed travel expenses will be covered by the organisation. The position will also entail a comprehensive induction that includes training in best practices of non-profit organisation governance, as required.
To apply, please email Executive Assistant Phumla Yeki [email protected] with a brief explanation of your interest in and suitability for this role, as well as a copy of your CV, by 31 March 2020.