Overview
Board of the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM) is seeking to appoint three Co-Opted Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to strengthen the Board's collective capability in areas identified through the 2025 Board Skills and Knowledge Audit.
Co-Opted NEDs are full Board members and Company Directors, appointed for their specialist expertise and external perspective.
Core Responsibilities (All Co-Opted NEDs)
- Act in accordance with IWFM’s Articles of Association and ensure the organisation pursues its Objects.
- Contribute to the overall governance, strategic direction and long-term sustainability of IWFM.
- Provide independent judgement and constructive challenge to Executive and Board colleagues.
- Safeguard IWFM’s reputation, values and the standing of the FM and workplace profession.
- Ensure financial sustainability and effective stewardship of IWFM’s assets.
- Act at all times in the best interests of IWFM, its members, staff and wider stakeholders.
Board-Agreed Priority Skills and Expertise
- Digital & technology: Board-level leadership or governance of major digital or systems transformation, digital strategy, technology-enabled service delivery, change management and benefits realisation.
- Education, training & professional development: Education or qualifications strategy, professional standards or accreditation, skills frameworks and lifelong learning.
- Marketing & communications: Strategic marketing or communications leadership, brand, communications and member development, member or customer engagement within membership or subscription organisations.
- International or multi-sector experience: Operating across international markets or jurisdictions, experience spanning multiple sectors such as professional bodies, education, not-for-profit or commercial services.
Statutory Duties and Governance Responsibilities
- Act within powers and in accordance with IWFM’s Articles.
- Promote the success of IWFM for the achievement of its Objects.
- Exercise independent judgement and reasonable care, skill and diligence.
- Avoid conflicts of interest and declare any actual or potential conflicts promptly.
- Not accept benefits from third parties related to the role.
- Maintain confidentiality and collective responsibility.
Person Specification – Essential Attributes
- Strong alignment with IWFM’s purpose, values and professional mission.
- Proven ability to operate effectively at Board or equivalent senior governance level.
- Strategic thinking with the ability to see long-term implications and take a broad organisational view.
- Confidence in constructively challenging and supporting executive leadership.
- Sound judgement, integrity and independence of thought.
- Ability to analyse complex information, including financial and performance data.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Willingness to devote the necessary time and preparation to the role.
Practical Requirements
- Prepare thoroughly for Board and Committee meetings.
- Participate actively and constructively in meetings.
- Use electronic Board platforms and collaboration tools effectively (including Microsoft Teams).
- Declare conflicts of interest and withdraw from discussions where appropriate.
- Support collective Board decisions once reached and work and ad-hoc engagement aligned to specialist expertise.
- Term: Co-Opted NEDs are appointed for a fixed term, as determined by the Board. The role typically requires attendance at scheduled Board meetings, occasional Committee participation and additional time commitment during key phases of the Digital Delivery Transformation Programme.
Next Steps
Candidates wishing to apply for a Co-Opted Non-Executive Director position should submit a completed IWFM Co-Opted NED Application Form together with a current CV.
Applications must be submitted by the closing date stated in the recruitment advertisement and will be assessed against the criteria set out in this role description. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process, which may include interview and due diligence checks.
Contact
Any queries about the contents of this document please contact LNKD1_UKTJ.