What is the role of a non-executive board of directors in an NGO?

The non-executive board of Directors are unpaid voluntary roles and they are usually responsible for the overall good governance of the NGO that they represent. They should make sure that there are robust financial controls in place and that funds are being spent in the correct way. They should also ensure that policies are kept up to date and work with the Executive Director to carry out strategy. They don’t get involved in day to day operations but are more an independent committee that is responsible for ensuring that the NGO is functioning properly with regard to staffing, financial management, safety and safeguarding and other policies. If there are serious HR issues or mishandling of funds for example, the non-executive Board will get involved. The Executive Director (ED) usually reports directly to the Chairman of the Board.