The role of Chairperson is mainly one of networking and facilitating. The Chairperson helps to provide leadership for CAN by overseeing the implementation of CAN's strategic plan and policies, and monitors the health of the organisation.

The Chairperson is directly elected by members at the AGM and is a member of the Committee (formerly known as the Executive).

NB: It may be possible to have co-Chairpersons (for the 2008 / 09 year, CAN had a co-Chair arrangement). This means that the roles and duties will be split between the two co-Chairs, and there typically wouldn't be a separate Deputy Chairperson.

The contents of the role description for CAN Committee members are relevant to the Chairperson. The following additional information applies:

Role:

• provide leadership for the general direction and operation of CAN, including the implementation of CAN's strategic plan
• co-ordinate the activities of the Committee and other post-holders, delegating as appropriate
• manage the Networking Project Manager (and indirectly other CAN staff), with assistance from the Staffing Sub-Committee (currently consisting of Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Treasurer)
• act as a spokesperson for CAN as needed
• act as a key contact point for CAN

Duties:

• convene and chair General Meetings and bi-monthly telephone meetings of the Committee, including collation and distribution of agenda items and background papers
• monitor key accountabilities (e.g. to groups, members and funders) and CAN's financial situation and co-ordinate follow-up action as needed
• provide advice and practical support where practical for other CAN office holders
• be a signatory for CAN's bank accounts, and be available to sign off on payment of invoices
• maintain regular contact with CAN staff, via the Networking Project Manager (or directly, if appropriate), to assess their well-being, monitor progress, offer feedback and advice, and identify when assistance is needed
• when the chair is Wellington-based, meet monthly with Walking & Cycling staff from NZTA (along with Networking Project Manager) and meet with other stakeholders (e.g. BikeNZ) as required - this task is delegated if the chair is not based in Wellington
• co-ordinate employment agreement negotiations and formal assessments of CAN staff performance or conduct as required
• in advance of the AGM each year, write to CAN office holders to thank them for their work & sending a gift as appropriate
• at appropriate times acknowledge the work of CAN staff

Desired qualities/experience:

• familiarity with CAN's objectives and operation, and with key issues & stakeholders in the sector
• ability to work on 'big picture' issues, avoiding getting involved in too much detail
• ability to motivate and organise self and others
• ability to work within deadlines and budgets

Accountabilities:

• as for Committee members

Support/working relationships:

• Committee (in particular the Co-/Deputy Chairperson & Staffing Sub-Committee)
• training specific to the Chairperson's role in employment will be made available

Time commitment:

• varies during the year, but averages 5-6 hours per week

Rewards:

• in addition to those rewards available to Committee members, the Chairperson is entitled to claim an honorarium of $500 per year

Notes:

• monthly meetings with NZTA staff (currently at NZTA offices, Chews Lane, Wellington) are somewhat dependent on current contractual relationships.