Non-Executive Director in Dorchester

£8,000 up to 20 days per annum, 3 years with possibility to extend for a further 3 years, +1 year

To provide independent oversight, strategic guidance and constructive challenge to the Board of Care Dorset, supporting the delivery of high-quality care and support services for people across Dorset. The role involves scrutinising performance, financial sustainability, workforce strategy, quality and regulatory compliance, while ensuring the organisation remains focused on delivering safe, person-centred services and positive outcomes for the people and communities it serves. As a Non-Executive Director, you will contribute your skills, experience and networks to support the organisation's long-term development, governance and reputation as a trusted provider of adult social care services in Dorset.

Whilst Care Dorset's services are delivered across Dorset, we welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates both within Dorset and from neighbouring counties and surrounding areas. We are seeking individuals who can bring an independent perspective, strategic insight and a commitment to supporting the organisation's mission.

We welcome applications from individuals with senior leadership, executive, board or governance experience from a wide range of sectors. Whilst experience of health or social care may be beneficial, it is not essential. We are particularly interested in candidates who can bring strategic insight, commercial acumen, financial expertise, organisational transformation, people leadership, digital innovation, customer service, community engagement or other transferable skills that will strengthen the Board's collective capability and diversity of thought.

Key responsibilities

1. Strategic leadership

• Contribute to the development and review of the organisation’s strategy.
• Challenge and support the Chief Officers in setting objectives and delivering long-term value.
• Ensure alignment between strategy, risk appetite, and organisational capabilities.

2. Governance and oversight

• Uphold high standards of corporate governance and ethical conduct.
• Monitor organisational performance against the agreed business plan deliverables and key performance indicators.
• Ensure robust financial controls and risk management systems are in place and effective.
• Safeguard the interests of shareholders, stakeholders, and wider communities.
• Conduct regular visits across Care Dorset’s services to engage with individuals we support, colleagues, and key stakeholders.

3. Independent judgement and challenge

• Provide objective, constructive challenge to executive decision-making.
• Scrutinise performance of senior management in meeting agreed goals.
• Bring external perspective, insight, and sector/functional expertise to Board discussions.
• Review and assess key risks facing the organisation.
• Ensure appropriate mitigation strategies and controls are implemented.
• Support the Board in maintaining an effective risk management framework.
• Contribute to a high-performing, balanced, and cohesive Board culture.
• Participate actively in Board and committee meetings.
• Support evaluation of Board performance and continuous improvement.
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation where appropriate.
• Maintain awareness of stakeholder perspectives and market developments.
• Promote transparency, accountability, and responsible decision-making.

Please refer to the adjacent Personal Specification to view the knowledge, experience, skills and personal attributes desired for the role.

The commitmentTerm of office3 years with the possibility to extend for a further 3 yearsfollowed by a final year (maximum of 7 years)Time commitmentNon-Executive Directors are asked to commitapproximately 20 days per annum.This will include attendance at four board meetings peryear, a learning day per year, and a strategic planning day.Additionally, the expectation is to visit services and otherrelevant meetings.

Development and inductionTraining and an induction will be provided and any areas ofdevelopment will be supported.

The Chair undertakes aquarterly review as part of this process.Remuneration

The role is remunerated at £8,000 per annum andreasonable expenses will be paid.

About Us

We are a trusted, local care and support provider, committed to delivering the highest standards at affordable prices. Our focus is on what matters most: compassionate, reliable support that meets the needs of the people we support and strengthens our communities.

Our vision is a world in which people thrive and at the heart of everything we do is a commitment to understanding individual needs and providing care and support that is truly person-centred. We offer warmth, compassion, and a personal touch in all our services.

We are trusted partners of the local authority, which reflects the high standards we uphold.

Sitting behind the frontline teams are Care Dorset’s business support officers. They deliver and support the executive functions which maintain the organisation as a whole.

£8,000 up to 20 days per annum, 3 years with possibility to extend for a further 3 years, +1 year