Purpose & Strategic Importance
The Governing Board has a central role in the strategic planning process. To ensure proper oversight and transparency, many National Societies establish a Board Oversight Committee or assign this role to an existing committee. This structure helps governance fulfil its responsibility without taking over the coordination team’s work.
Activities & Decisions
What is the role of Board Oversight Committee
- Agreeing on parameters – define the framework, timing, and scope of the strategic planning process.
- Providing oversight – monitor progress, ensure that the process is participatory, and intervene if difficulties arise.
- Guiding early decisions – discuss emerging themes or major potential changes at an early stage, and assess whether the Board is ready for this level of change.
- Reviewing drafts – provide structured feedback on draft strategies and ensure alignment with the National Society’s mandate, principles, and resources.
- Ensuring accountability – make sure the process is transparent, inclusive, and aligned with governance expectations.
Implementation Notes
Good practice
- Keep the oversight committee small and functional (3–5 members), ensuring diversity and relevant experience.
- Define clear roles and reporting lines between the committee, the coordination team, and senior management from the start.
- Hold formal feedback sessions with the full Governing Board to validate progress and emerging decisions.
- Involve the General Assembly where required for final approval of the plan.
Additional arrangements
- Oversight committees may request regular briefings from the coordination team to follow progress and raise questions early.
- For sensitive issues (e.g. closing services, major restructuring), committees should ensure early dialogue with the Governing Board to confirm appetite for change before final drafting.
Examples & Learning
Kenya Red Cross
“Our overarching priority was localisation: getting closer to communities, strengthening branches, and mobilising local resources. These decisions were guided and supported by our Governing Board.”
📎 See also: Coordinating Through a Dedicated Team and Mobilising External Support Carefully.