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JOIN SEW VALLEY’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

 

Job Title: Secretary, Board of Trustees

Reports to: Board Chair
Compensation: Volunteer
Annual Give or Get Commitment: $750
Time Commitment: 2-3 Hours per Quarter
Start date: April 1, 2025

Sew Valley is seeking an organized and detail-oriented Board Secretary to play a key role in advancing Cincinnati’s creative economy and fostering sustainable, ethical, and locally-driven apparel manufacturing. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to Sew Valley’s mission of empowering apparel entrepreneurs and brands to produce locally, sustainably, and efficiently. The Secretary will help strengthen the foundation for a vibrant, local garment manufacturing industry that provides job stability, career pathways, and long-term economic security for the community. If you are passionate about supporting impactful, innovative work in the nonprofit sector, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of sustainable apparel manufacturing.

Position Overview:
Sew Valley is seeking an experienced and committed individual to join our Board of Trustees as Secretary. The Secretary will ensure that accurate records are maintained for all board meetings, play an active role in facilitating communication between board members, and help ensure that Sew Valley is meeting all its governance and regulatory responsibilities. As a member of the Board of Trustees, the Secretary will collaborate with fellow board members to provide leadership, oversight, and guidance to the organization.

Key Responsibilities:
Governance and Recordkeeping:

  • Ensure that accurate and detailed minutes are taken at each board meeting, including meetings of subcommittees and working groups.

  • Maintain and manage the official records and documents of the board, including meeting minutes, resolutions, and board member communications.

  • Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements for record retention and documentation.

Board Communication:

  • Serve as the liaison between the Board of Trustees and the organization, ensuring that board members receive timely and relevant materials ahead of meetings.

  • Assist in the preparation and distribution of meeting agendas and supporting documents in collaboration with the Board Chair and Executive Director.

  • Help ensure that board members stay informed of any developments and issues relevant to Sew Valley’s work.

Compliance and Bylaws:

  • Ensure the board is complying with its bylaws and governance policies, and that proper procedures are followed in all decision-making processes.

  • Support the Board Chair in maintaining the board’s compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations applicable to nonprofit boards.

Meeting Coordination and Support:

  • Attend all board meetings and actively support the efficient and effective conduct of meetings.

  • Help coordinate logistics for board meetings, including scheduling, confirming attendance, and arranging for virtual or in-person meeting spaces.

  • Ensure that all board actions and decisions are properly documented and communicated to relevant stakeholders.

Collaboration and Teamwork:

  • Collaborate with other board members and staff to ensure that board meetings and activities align with Sew Valley's strategic goals.

  • Provide support for the annual board self-assessment and other governance activities.

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience in administrative or governance roles, preferably in nonprofit organizations or corporate governance.

  • Strong organizational and record-keeping skills, with attention to detail.

  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to take clear, concise minutes and to present information to diverse audiences.

  • Familiarity with board governance structures and nonprofit regulations.

  • A commitment to Sew Valley’s mission and values.

  • Previous board or nonprofit experience is a plus but not required.

Desired Attributes:

  • Integrity, transparency, and a commitment to upholding ethical standards.

  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities.

  • Collaborative, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

  • Proactive and solution-oriented, with the ability to anticipate needs and resolve issues before they arise.

Term:
This is a volunteer position with a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and interest in the position to shailah@sewvalley.org

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commitment

At Sew Valley, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where every individual feels valued and empowered. We believe that diversity in our team enhances creativity, drives innovation, and strengthens our overall performance. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, and we strive to create an environment that promotes respect, understanding, and collaboration. Our commitment to DEI is reflected in our hiring practices, employee development programs, and community engagement initiatives, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.