Non-Profit Board Committees

Non-profit board committees are specialised groups within the board of a non-profit organisation. They handle specific areas of the organisation’s governance and operations, such as financial oversight and donations, reporting back to the board. Each committee serves a distinct purpose and may be permanent or temporary, depending on its role.

Common types of non-profit board committees

Executive committee

The executive committee manages urgent issues and provides strategic oversight. It includes top board officers, such as the chair, vice-chair and treasurer. It liaises between the board and the CEO and ensures that critical decisions are made efficiently.

Finance committee

This committee oversees financial management, including budgeting, planning and reporting. It reviews financial statements and guides policies to maintain fiscal health and stability.

Fundraising committee

The fundraising committee focuses on generating financial support. It plans fundraising events, develops donor strategies and explores revenue opportunities. This committee is crucial for ensuring the organisation has the necessary resources to fulfil its mission.

Governance and nominating committee

The governance and nominating committee manages board development and governance. It nominates and recruits board members, reviews governance policies and ensures that the board’s composition reflects the necessary skills to support good governance.

Audit committee

The audit committee ensures the accuracy and transparency of financial reporting. It oversees the audit process, reviews financial statements and ensures regulatory compliance.

HR committee

This committee oversees HR policies and reviews hiring practices, employee benefits and performance evaluations, ensuring that internal policies align with the organisation’s values.

Risk management committee

This committee develops strategies to address financial, operational and reputational risks and monitors compliance and crisis management plans to protect the organisation’s assets.

Communications and PR committee

This committee manages communications and public relations, shaping the organisation’s public image. It handles social media and produces newsletters and official statements, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement.

Programme and services committee

This committee focuses on the development and oversight of the organisation’s initiatives, ensuring they align with the organisation’s mission and meet the community’s needs.

Purpose

• Specialised focus: Each non-profit board committee has a specific area of focus. Collectively, these committees ensure that all important company matters are addressed.
• Efficiency: By dividing responsibilities among specialised groups, these committees streamline board operations and ensure that all key areas are given attention.
• Expertise and oversight: These committees comprise subject matter experts who offer detailed insights to ensure effective oversight and management.

Roles and responsibilities

• Chair: The committee chair guides agenda creation, leads meetings, liaises with the full board and ensures that the committee’s actions align with its purpose and objectives.
• Members: Committee members contribute their expertise, attend meetings, participate in discussions and help implement the committee’s strategies and recommendations.
• Reporting to the board: Committees report their findings, recommendations and progress to the full board, ensuring transparency and alignment with organisational goals.

Formation and structure of committees

Non-profit board committees are formed based on the organisation’s needs and strategic priorities. Any combination of directors, employees and volunteers can make up the committee. The board chooses members based on their expertise and experience.Each committee has a chair to facilitate meetings and give direction, a co-chair to take over in the chair’s absence and regular members, such as directors, trustees, internal experts and external advisors, to contribute to discussions and decision-making. Additionally, a secretary or designated member may take minutes and ensure proper meeting documentation.