The Members Council of the Outward Bound Trust comprises between 20 and 30 individuals elected from the Outward Bound Trust membership. The Members Council (MC) plays a key role in the Governance and support of the Outward Bound organisation in New Zealand. This role is defined formally in the Outward Bound Trust deed as ‘to be responsible for the protection of the ethos and philosophy of Outward Bound, but insuring that the Trust remains economically viable’.

To undertake this role, the MC has responsibility for the appointment of the Board of Directors of the Outward Bound Trust -  and the MC therefore provides  ‘check and balance’ governance  to ensure that Board decisions and direction are in accord with the Outward Bound philosophy and values. The Board takes the primary financial responsibility, and the MC role in this regard is one of overview.

The MC is also responsible for the appointment of three independent directors to the Board of the Outward Bound Foundation.

In addition to its formal role, the MC provides essential support for the OB organisation in the form of projects and activities undertaken from time to time. MC members also provide an important link to the community at large, which is called upon when required to support activities that strengthen the organisation. Members are appointed for a one year term.

WHAT ARE THE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELECTED?

The formal pre qualifications to be elected to the Member Council are straightforward:

1. You must be a financial member of the Outward Bound Trust. Membership is by way of an annual $80 donation, or a $1,000 donation recognizes you as a life member.

2. You must be nominated by and seconded by existing financial members of the Trust.

3. Your nomination must be approved by the Council and the election passed by vote at the Trust AGM.

In order for the MC to carry out its role effectively and play its part in the support and strengthening of the OB organisation, it is important that members bring to the Council key attributes they can actively contribute. These are:

1. A working knowledge of Outward Bound. Members should have completed an Outward Bound Course or alternatively have close knowledge of OB through other involvement.

2. Be committed to and passionate about the OB philosophy and goals and want to actively support the OB organisation.

3. Be well networked on their local community

4. Have experience in organisational management either in the business or not for profit sectors and have skills in this regard that can benefit the OB organisation.

5. Be of character and standing that is aligned with the OB values.

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME AS A COUNCILLOR?

• The key requirement is that you are engaged in your role as a Councillor and contribute actively throughout the year rather than just attending the formal meetings.

• The MC meets formally at least twice per year, at the annual AGM (held at Anakiwa) and a midyear meeting held in varying locations. Attendance at least one of these meetings is essential. Travel cost assistance is available if required. In addition special meetings may be called from time to time.

• The Chair of the MC may appoint members to specific action committees.

• Be active in your local community when called upon to support OB actions and initiatives.

• To actively build your knowledge of OB and the organisation through participation.

• To support OB working groups that is called from time to time.

• To be an active ‘ambassador’ for OB in the community in accord with the organisations communication guidelines.

• To commit to the role of Councillor for more than one year. Although Councillors are elected for a one year term, it takes time to build an effective knowledge of the organisation.

• To proactively look for opportunities to strengthen the OB organisation and present these to the MC for potential action.