About Sydney Dogs & Cats Home:

Sydney Dogs & Cats Home is a not-for-profit, community-focused animal welfare organisation, whose mission is to provide high-quality support services both for in-need companion animals and the people who care for them. Our core business is providing stray animal management services for several Sydney councils and reuniting, rehabilitating, and rehoming the animals in our care. Our organisation is at an exciting point of expansion and development, and we are looking for dedicated, like-minded people to join us on this journey.

The Boards role and responsibilities:

As the Board Secretary, you will support the Board of Sydney Dogs & Cats Home in fulfilling its responsibilities, which include:

• Leadership and Strategic Direction: Collaborate in developing and approving SDCH’s purpose, values, and strategic direction, ensuring these are effectively embedded in all operations.

• Operational Oversight: Approve operating/business plans and policies, as well as the annual report and financial statements.

• Financial Supervision: Participate in approving and monitoring operating budgets and significant capital expenditures.

• Performance Management: Help guide and monitor the management of SDCH in achieving its strategic and financial objectives.

• Risk Management: Review, approve, and monitor SDCH’s risk management systems.

• Governance: Support the oversight of good governance practices within the organisation.

• Public Relations: Aid in representing SDCH and promoting a strong, positive image that clearly supports the vision of SDCH, maintaining consistency in public communications concerning Board decisions.

Key Responsibilities of this office bearer role:

• Execute the tasks assigned to the secretary by the president.

• Responsible for the integrity and confidentiality of board and organisational records and member details, ensuring they are securely stored and accessible when needed.

• Record and retain all board and executive committee meeting minutes to ensure a comprehensive archival record.

• Coordinate board meetings (currently bi-monthly), ensuring all members are informed in a timely manner and have the necessary documents to participate effectively.

• Efficiently distribute minutes, agendas, reports, and other relevant documents to board members and committee members as required, facilitating open communication and informed decision-making.

• Coordinate the annual general meeting with members.

Qualifications required:

• Proven ability to manage confidential information with discretion and integrity.

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to ensure clear and effective dissemination of information.

• Proficient in using Microsoft Office digital tools for document management, scheduling, and remote collaboration.