Skillset skills-based board application process

To reflect corporate governance best practice, we have a skills-based Board comprising Directors with a mix of skills, knowledge, experience and diversity required to lead the organisation into the future.

Skillset seeks applications from residents in Central West NSW interested in becoming a member of our Board. Applications from candidates residing in Lithgow and/or with experience working in accounting practice are highly desirable. If elected at the AGM, Directors are elected for a term of three years and can serve up to three consecutive terms.

About Us

At Skillset, our vision is to create life-changing opportunities for people and communities in regional NSW.

Skillset offers a range of services including recruitment, apprenticeship and traineeship services, career development and mentoring programs as well as alternative senior school education pathways. Skillset is committed to generating employment opportunities through education and skills development for people across regional NSW.

Skillset is a Not-For-Profit Company Limited by Guarantee and our Strategic Plan (2025-2028) is focused on three key areas:

• Becoming an Employer of Choice: we value the passionate individuals who choose to be a part of the Skillset community
• Providing Service Excellence: we deliver high quality services which meet the needs of individuals and our communities
• Being a Trusted Partner: we nurture new and existing, mutually-beneficial partnerships which enable our success.

About the Role of a Director

Our Directors actively guide strategic direction, ensure effective governance, provide oversight of and support to the leadership team, all in the name of achieving our vision.

This role is not just about governance; it’s about being a catalyst for change and a champion for our staff and community. Director responsibilities include:

• Attend quarterly Board Meetings held in Bathurst, NSW.
• Participate in committee work, as required.
• Lead with passion and purpose, guiding strategic direction and ensuring we stay true to our mission.
• Support and mentor our leadership team, providing the wisdom and insight needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
• Ensure legal compliance and achieve relevant governance requirements.
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation in the community and participate in relevant events and activities.

The Board is made up of a maximum of nine Directors appointed by the Member Organisations of Skillset.

Benefits of being a Director

• Impact your community: Opportunity to use your skills and experience, on a Not-for-Profit Board, making a positive impact in the community.
• Remuneration: Directors of the Skillset Limited Board are remunerated and reimbursed for Board-related costs such as travel.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for professional development are provided to all Directors. Working alongside a skills-based Board, you have the opportunity to broaden your network and skills in governance, strategic planning, and leadership.
• Legacy: help create life-changing opportunities for people and communities in regional NSW.

The Ideal Director

The ideal Director will bring strategic vision and strong leadership skills.  In addition, our aim is to ensure our Board is comprised of individuals who collectively possess the wide range of skills, experience, and attributes necessary to effectively govern the organisation.

We are looking for candidates who possess strong skills and experience in accounting practice to assist our Board to ensure robust financial oversight, compliance, and effective stewardship of organisational resources. This expertise will assist the Board to make informed strategic decisions, safeguard assets, and maintain the trust of stakeholders and the broader community.

Ideally, candidates will also have:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• AICD or equivalent qualification (or willing to obtain).
• Strong understanding of governance and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Business acumen, with exposure to compliance, governance and risk management.
• Experience in a not-for-profit environment (desirable).

It is desirable to have Directors who live and work from each of our Central West NSW Member organisation communities. Accordingly, we invite applications from residents of Central West NSW, with particular preference given to candidates residing in Lithgow.

We make merit-based decisions and seek a Board that reflects our diverse community. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and value the strengths diversity brings.

Recruitment Process

The recruitment process is undertaken by the Corporate Governance Committee (a committee of the Board) to identify suitable candidates to put forward to our Member Organisation Representatives for consideration.

This is a skills-based process which will include assessment of applications (Application Form and Resume), shortlisting against the criteria for the position, interviews, reference and other probity checks.  The process aims to identify one or more applicants who meet the criteria for the ideal Director (outlined above) to recommend to Members.

Member Organisation Representatives consider and vote to appoint person/s as Directors at the Skillset Annual General Meeting, which is scheduled for the 28^th of November 2025.

If you share our vision of creating life-changing opportunities for people and communities in regional NSW, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your Resume and a completed Application Form to governance@skillset.com.au

Please click here to download our Application Form.

Prior to any offer, preferred candidates are required to undertake a thorough assessment process aiming to ensure that they are a suitable person. This may involve interview/s, Criminal History Check, Working with Children Check, ID checks and reference checks.

Skillset has enjoyed the invaluable membership of the following organisations since its inception in 1982:

• Bathurst Business Chamber
• Bathurst Regional Council
• Blayney Shire Council
• Business Orange
• Lithgow City Council
• Orange City Council
• Parkes Shire Council