Board Member

### Strategic Stewardship for Peer-Led Support

Otago Mental Health Support Trust (OMHST) is inviting expressions of interest from individuals who combine governance experience with a personal understanding of mental distress and/or addiction.

As a peer-governed organisation, we believe that high-level oversight is most effective when grounded in the authenticity of lived experience. These vacancies represent an opportunity to contribute your expertise to a stable, well-regarded service that provides vital support to the Ōtepoti community.

### The Opportunity

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the long-term strategic direction and sustainability of OMHST. We are looking for volunteer Trustees who can provide steady leadership and ensure that OMHST continues to offer a safe, reliable and empowering environment for all who access our services. Your role will be to provide the structural support necessary for our kaimahi to thrive, ensuring that OMHST remains a cornerstone of mental health support in Ōtepoti.

### Core Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight: Contributing to the development and monitoring of the long-term strategic plan for OMHST.

2. Financial Stewardship: Ensuring robust financial management, audit compliance and responsible resource allocation.

3. Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating organisational risks to protect the reputation and service delivery of OMHST.

4. Policy and Compliance: Ensuring OMHST meets all legal and ethical obligations under the Charities Act and health and safety legislation.

5. Governance Excellence: Maintaining a clear distinction between governance and management while supporting the Manager and kaimahi.

### Desired Skills and Experience

We are seeking candidates who demonstrate a balance of the following:

1. Professional Governance: Previous experience on a Board (community, NFP or commercial) is highly desirable.

2. Lived Experience: A personal journey of mental distress or addiction is a core requirement, as it ensures our governance remains aligned with the needs of the tangata whaiora that OMHST serves.

3. Specialist Competencies: To ensure a well-rounded Board, we are particularly interested in applicants with backgrounds in: - Financial Oversight and Accounting - Legal, Risk and Compliance - Strategic HR and Wellbeing - Community Sector Leadership