Committee Chair Position Description

Responsibilities of the chair Attends all meetings Accepts and supports the committee’s charge Plans committee meetings and agenda with staff Exercises leadership Maintains records and relevant information on committee work. The chair must be sufficiently informed to interact knowledgeably with other committee members. Moves members toward participation and resolution regarding outstanding issues. Evaluates committee efforts and communicates accomplishments to the committee and to association leadership. After the committee has made a recommendation to the board, it is the responsibility of the chairman of the committee to present that recommendation to the board of directors for action. Qualities of an effective committee chair Communication Skills Demonstrates ability to communicate with committee members and other groups Demonstrates willingness to listen (communication is not solely talking) Participation Demonstrates active participation and interest in the association Commands prestige and respect from within the industry or profession Has knowledge of the subject in which the committee is involved Thinks in terms of association goals Leadership Commands attention and inspires others Demonstrates ability to create a positive work atmosphere Controls without dominating Understands how the committee fits into the larger goals of the association Administrative Skills Demonstrates willingness to take initiative Demonstrates ability and willingness to carry out responsibilities Supports orderly procedures for conducting work Understands the specific charges of the committee and works to efficiently lead the committee to accomplish the desired goals