BOARD BANK CASE STUDY

FIT FOR PURPOSE

Consultant Griff Round joined the board of Fittings Multimedia Arts, Liverpool, in 2006. Fittings make new performance and theatre addressing serious issues using the language of variety theatre.  We talked to Griff and Administrative Director, Deborah Wintle, about their experiences.

Griff:
Why Fittings Multimedia?
Fittings seemed to be involved in some very interesting artistic projects.  It was also small and open to ideas, so it sounded like the kind of organisation I would enjoy being part of.

I hear you’ve become Chair of the organisation – it’s not the first time you’ve taken this on, is it?
No.  In the 90s I was Chair of Merseyside Young People’s Theatre (now Fuse), though not through BIA.  It’s interesting to compare and contrast the two organisations.

So you did us out of a match there! Seriously, what do you think makes a good board member?
I think someone who realises they are there to serve the organisation.  In some cases that might be to provide a particular skill or insight whilst in others it might be to provide the organisation with reassurance. I’ve certainly had opportunities to give  specialist advice to the company and I believe I’ve helped them towards a more businesslike approach and good board practice.

Just what we tell our Board Bank volunteers at their induction.  What do you personally get out of it?
As well as using my business expertise in a different context I derive a lot of pleasure both from the appreciation I get and from being involved in something worthwhile.  There are personal and career development benefits too, and it opens up new networking opportunities.

Deborah:
Why did you come to BIA:NW for board members?
I knew about the Board Bank from working with another organisation who recruited several high quality board members through BIA:NW, so when Fittings needed business skills on the board, it was the obvious place to come.

How have Griff’s skills particularly helped your organisation?
Griff has a solid background in finance, so we can be confident that he is asking the right questions and keeping us on our toes when it comes to financial management and reporting. His other expertise is in marketing, and having a business marketing perspective is a real plus in ensuring our marketing strategy and materials are effective.

How does having business people on your board make a difference?
Well, obviously it brings skills on to the board which we might not otherwise be able to access.  I also think having a business perspective helps us to think more creatively about the way we do things and be more receptive to change.  It also ensures the meetings are businesslike and well run.

What makes Griff a good chair?
Griff has chaired a board in the arts before so he understands the sector and knows how to manage people individually and as a team.  He is always well prepared and takes a very thoughtful approach to his role.  His commitment to Fittings and his interest and enjoyment in our work are very clear.  It’s a pleasure to work with him.