BOARD DIRECTOR ROLE DESCRIPTION
1. TITLE
International Director
2. OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The International Director is a member-elected role, working in a non-executive capacity to provide leadership and strategic direction to the U21 International Committee. The International Director sits on the British Dressage Board and Sport Development Committee and works with the Chair and Chief Executive to ensure effective governance of the organisation.
The U21 International Committee is a sub-committee of the Board of British Dressage set up for the purpose of ensuring that Great Britain is represented on the international stage at all youth championships (Children on Horses, Ponies, Juniors and Young Riders) and that appropriate talent development and training pathways are in place. The International Director also oversees Senior and Under 25 selection for international competition and championships.
3. MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide direction on strategy and policy for all activities that support the training, development and performance of athletes at international level.
Chair the U21 International Committee meetings, to lead the development and progression of international training, talent development and competition opportunities.
• Attend the Board of Directors and Sport Development Committee meetings.
• Oversee and implement the BD selection policies for international events / teams.
Manage a team of selectors at Senior, U25 & U21 level to ensure the relevant selection policy is adhered to and decisions are reached as part of a transparent process.
• Oversee and approve budgets to support U21 and U25 international activity.
Work in collaboration with the BEF World Class Performance team to ensure Great Britain’s success on the international stage.
• Represent the needs and requirements of international athletes across all age groups.
Ensure that the Board makes informed, balanced and objective decisions in relation to international matters, at Senior, Under 25 and Under 21 level.
Ensure there is clear and effective communication with all international athletes, including parents, guardians, coaches and support teams.
Act in the best interests of British Dressage, in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association, meeting its stated charitable and strategic objectives.
Monitor the performance of British Dressage to ensure that objectives are delivered fully, in accordance with the agreed annual operational plan.
• Act as a strong advocate for the work of British Dressage and the equestrian community.
Promote and uphold effective safeguarding practices across all development pathways and events for officials, in line with national safeguarding expectations for NGBs.
Champion diversity, equality and inclusion and support British Dressage’s compliance with EDI requirements as outlined in the Code for Sports Governance.
4. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ROLE
Essential knowledge / experience:
• A strong background in dressage, with extensive knowledge of equestrian sport, is essential for this role, combined with a passion for international equestrian competition.
• A thorough understanding of BD National and FEI International rules is advantageous.
• Must have ridden or trained horses to international level (PSG or above).
Experience as a List 1 judge and / or coach is desirable.
Additional requirements:
• Recent experience of being a Board Director and / or chairing committees.
• Experience as a trustee or committee member in the sporting or voluntary sector.
• A full member of British Dressage.
• IT literate with access to a computer.
• Eligible as a trustee of a registered charity.
Personal Skills / Characteristics
Established reputation as a leader and strategic thinker, with a proven ability to operate in a professional capacity at senior level.
Upholds the highest standards of integrity and adheres to the Seven Principles of Public Life (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership).
• Positive, enthusiastic, dynamic, and energetic self-starter.
Team player who is willing to work collaboratively with all stakeholders and act as an effective ambassador for the sport.
Experience of representing an organisation in a high profile or public-facing role, including good presentation and public speaking skills.
Strong communication, influencing and negotiation skills, with the ability to forge effective relationships with key stakeholder groups.
5. ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Time Commitment
Chair the U21 International Committee meetings (up to four per annum), plus attend four Sport Development Committee and four Board meetings per year (12 days in total).
• Attend all selection meetings at Senior, U25 and U21 level, acting as Chair as required.
• Attend the BD Annual General Meeting, major BD championships and domestic CDIs.
There will be responsibilities outside of formal meetings which vary depending on the needs of the sport and selection requirements, including attendance at international competition.
Term of Office
• Board Directors may stand for two terms of four years each.
Remuneration
• The role is voluntary. Travel and accommodation expenses will be paid.