Job Description for Volunteer Director Position
Leading a non-profit or volunteer organization is a challenging role and more so in a troubled economy. The ideal candidate should possess the same professional characteristics as the CEO of a profitable organization, in addition to the prerequisite leadership and team-building qualities embodied in all successful volunteer leaders.
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Responsibilities
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In most volunteer organizations, the director oversees four separate areas of operation. The primary and likely most time-consuming is fundraising. In order to continue operating, the organization needs to secure private and corporate donations, which the director can acquire by applying for grants and organizing fundraising events. The director should constantly maintain marketing and public relations by seeking to optimize the organization's name and reputation by best portraying its values and good deeds in a memorable way. Thirdly, the director must supervise and be responsible for the spending of all grants and donations. Finally, the director must also manage ad hoc duties such as payroll, facility leasing, equipment and insurance compliance for property and personnel.
Power
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The power of the director and the extent to which he can delegate duties depends on the size and complexity of the organization. In a large organization, the director will answer to and at the same time represent a board of directors; however, in a smaller or flatter organization, the director will more frequently work alongside entry-level staff members.
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Education
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The extent of the applicant's education depends on the size, scope and geographic location of the organization. However, generally, the director should be an expert in her field and/or hold a university degree business administration, arts management, public administration, finance, marketing or communications.
Qualifications
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The director should have excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to persuade and inspire people to join the organization's cause. These communication skills extend to diplomacy in that the director should be able to motivate internal staff as well as external parties such as corporate leaders, politicians and the public. The director should be imaginative and innovative and should constantly seek to bring fresh ideas and methods to the organization.
Working Conditions
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As the organization is not for profit, the role of director doesn't necessarily have to be a full-time job. Some leaders of smaller volunteer fundraising organizations fulfill their responsibilities within the company part time, while holding another job elsewhere. It is important to discuss with the members of the board upfront the length of a working term. It could be a fixed office period of two to four years, or the director can hold the position indefinitely so long as the rest of the organization approve of the direction and leadership.
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References
- Photo Credit business image by peter Hires Images from Fotolia.com
