Member Director (Voluntary Position) – Design Institute of Australia
Location:
18-24 Baillie Street North Melbourne VIC (position is available to work remotely)
About Us:
The Design Institute of Australia (DIA) is Australia's peak industry body for professional designers and represents Australian design and designers both domestically and internationally. With a rich history spanning over 70 years, DIA advocates for designer issues and lead stakeholder initiatives that leverage designers' voices and elevate their contributions. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Member Director to join our board and contribute to the strategic direction and governance of our organization.
The Role of the DIA Board:
DIA Directors are responsible for the successful implementation of the National Advisory Council's Strategic vision and objectives with reference to the DIA Vision Statement.
The DIA Board is also responsible for the good governance of the organisation including financial accountability, legal compliance, risk management and privacy obligations. It meets quarterly, and Directors are expected to prepare for and actively participate in meetings and to contribute to Committees as required.
Position Overview:
As a Member Director, you will have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our organization and represent the interests of our diverse membership base. This is a voluntary position with a two-year term, with the option for further terms, providing you with a platform to make a meaningful impact on the Australian design community.
Interested DIA members with directorship experience in the creative sector are encouraged to apply.
Member applications will be evaluated and short listed by the Nominations Committee, which will then make recommendations to the National Advisory Council who will elect the Director.
The DIA aims to achieve a balanced Board with a diverse range of skills and attributes so applications will be considered within the context of the current DIA Board skills matrix.
Key Responsibilities:
As outlined in the DIA Constitution 2017 and DIA Charter 2021 Member Directors represent the interests and perspectives of DIA members in board discussions and decision-making.
Collaborate with fellow board members to prioritise the strategic direction of the organization.
Attend board meetings and actively participate in discussions and decision-making processes.
Contribute to the development and implementation of initiatives and programs that benefit DIA members.
Act as a liaison between the board and the broader membership, fostering communication and engagement.
Promote the mission and values of DIA within the design community and beyond.
Qualifications:
Active membership* in the Design Institute of Australia.
Passion for the design industry and a commitment to its growth and development.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Dedication to fulfilling the responsibilities of the Member Director position, including attending board meetings and fulfilling related duties.
Previous board or leadership experience is a plus but not required.
*DIA Members means paid in full as at 1 January 2024.
Merit Criteria:
Professional Skills: Financial, legal/governance, communications/media/social media, marketing/PR, IT/Systems, project management and government relations.
Industry Knowledge: Large practice, small practice, strategic thinking, risk management, planning, design industry standing and level of engagement.
Personal Attributes: Leadership, commitment of time and energy, inter-personal and collaborative skills, common sense and sound judgement, decision making skills, integrity and capacity for flexible thinking (visionary).
How to Apply:
If you are an enthusiastic DIA member who is passionate about the design industry and is interested in contributing to the organization's strategic direction, please submit to Jo-Ann Kellock ceo@design.org.au by COB Monday 29 January 2024. Please include "Member Director Application - DIA" in the subject line of your email.
A brief cover letter;
A maximum three-page CV; and
A brief description of the contribution you can make as a director, making reference to the merit criteria. (750-word limit).
Note: This is a voluntary position, and no compensation will be provided.
Diversity and Inclusion:
The Design Institute of Australia is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from members of underrepresented groups within the design community. More information can be found in the DIA Annual Report 2023.
Join us in shaping the future of the design industry in Australia as a Member Director at DIA!