Appraisal of non department public body (NDPB) board members and chairs: guidance

Annex A: Role and Responsibilities of the Board Member

• Understands the operational environment in which their public body operates within the context of the wider public service delivery landscape.
• Attends Board meetings on a regular basis and is well prepared by reading relevant papers in advance and, if necessary, seeks further information to ensure their understanding.
• Attends training events and keeps up to date with subjects relevant to the public body's work.
• Contributes to the work of any committees that have been established by the Board.
• Represents the Board at meetings and stakeholder events when required.
• Contributes to strategic development and decision-making.
• Clarifies which decisions are reserved for the Board and which should be delegated.
• Monitors the reporting of performance and holds management to account through purposeful and constructive challenge and scrutiny.
• As necessary, seeks further information than that which is provided to give assurance on organisational performance.
• Questions and, as necessary, challenges proposals made by fellow Board members and the executive team constructively and carefully to reach and articulate a considered view on their suitability.
• Provides a creative contribution to the Board by providing independent oversight on issues of strategy, performance and resources.
• Behaves in accordance with the agreed Code of Conduct.
• Establishes and promotes the public body's role in the community.