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Governance – Officer Roles and Committees

This page outlines the leadership roles and committee structures within ISFTD. It provides an overview of responsibilities, terms, and how different positions contribute to the Society’s activities. The descriptions aim to give members and prospective candidates a clear understanding of how ISFTD is organised and how they can get involved in its governance and work.

The Bylaws of the ISFTD serve as a foundational framework guiding the organization’s operations, governance, and member engagement. These bylaws outline the purpose of the society, the roles and responsibilities of its officers, and the procedures for decision-making and membership. 

President-Elect 

The President-Elect is an officer of ISFTD and a member of the Board of Directors. The role supports the President in the leadership and governance of the Society and prepares to assume the Presidency.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Support implementation of Board-approved strategy and policies.
  2. Participate in Board meetings and governance decisions.
  3. Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development.
  4. Prepare to assume the Presidency and ensure continuity.
  5. Represent ISFTD externally and engage stakeholders.
  6. Support major ISFTD activities, including conferences.

Qualifications

  1. Advanced degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent).
  2. Demonstrated leadership experience.
  3. Track record in FTD-related work.
  4. Ability to contribute to governance and strategy.

Term
The President-Elect serves for the term applicable to the Board position, as prescribed by the Board at the time of election, and continues until a successor is elected and qualified. The President-Elect is expected to succeed to the Presidency in accordance with ISFTD governance practice and applicable Board action.

Secretary/Treasurer of ISFTD

The Secretary/Treasurer is an officer of ISFTD. This is a combined role in which one individual serves as both Secretary and Treasurer, as permitted by the bylaws. The role supports governance, recordkeeping, and financial oversight.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Maintain corporate records, minutes, and governance documentation.
  2. Ensure accurate records of meetings of members and the Board.
  3. Authenticate official ISFTD records as required.
  4. Maintain and oversee financial records and accounts.
  5. Provide financial statements to the Board or President when requested.
  6. Support compliance with governance and financial obligations.

Qualifications

  1. Experience in governance, finance, administration or budget management.
  2. Ability to manage confidential information.
  3. Understanding of non-profit governance and financial oversight.

Term
The Secretary/Treasurer serves the same term as other officers, as determined by the Board of Directors, and continues until a successor is elected and qualified. If the role is tied to a Board seat, the Board term is governed by Article III and the officer designation is governed by Article IV.

Chair-Elect (General Description)

The Chair-Elect is a leadership role within an ISFTD committee. The Chair-Elect supports the Chair in delivering the committee’s objectives and prepares to assume the Chair role at the end of the term. The position provides continuity in leadership and contributes to the effective planning and execution of committee activities.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Support the Chair in coordinating committee work and activities.
  2. Contribute to planning, strategy, and delivery of committee objectives.
  3. Participate actively in committee meetings and initiatives.
  4. Lead specific projects or workstreams as delegated by the Chair.
  5. Prepare to assume the Chair role, ensuring continuity and knowledge transfer.

Term
The Chair-Elect serves a defined term, typically two years, and succeeds to the role of Chair in accordance with the committee’s Terms of Reference.

Scientific Program Committee

The Scientific Program Committee is a standing committee established by the Board to oversee the scientific quality and integrity of ISFTD conferences and related activities.

Responsibilities

  1. Develop and oversee scientific programmes for ISFTD events.
  2. Ensure quality, relevance, and integrity of scientific content.
  3. Support scientific programming for virtual and in-person activities.
  4. Collaborate with other committees to disseminate scientific content.

Composition and Terms

  1. Includes a Chair, Chair-Elect, and members.
  2. Chair-Elect is elected by the membership where applicable and succeeds to Chair.
  3. Members are appointed by the Board.
  4. Terms are typically two years, with renewal as determined by the Board.

Reporting

  1. The Chair reports to the Board of Directors.
  2. Provides regular updates and an annual report.
Membership Committee

The Membership Committee advises the Board on membership strategy, growth, and engagement.

Responsibilities

  1. Develop recruitment, retention, and engagement strategies.
  2. Evaluate and propose improvements to membership benefits.
  3. Monitor membership trends and provide recommendations.
  4. Propose updates to membership criteria for Board approval.
  5. Support expansion of global and interdisciplinary participation.

Composition and Terms

  1. Includes a Chair, Chair-Elect, and members.
  2. Members are appointed by the Board in consultation with committee leadership.
  3. Terms are typically two years, with renewal as determined by the Board.

Reporting

  1. The Chair reports to the Board of Directors.
  2. Provides periodic updates and an annual report.
Communications Committee

The Communications Committee develops and implements ISFTD’s communications strategy to enhance visibility and engagement.

Responsibilities

  1. Develop and implement communications strategy.
  2. Manage website, social media, and digital content.
  3. Disseminate scientific and organisational information.
  4. Promote ISFTD events and initiatives.

Composition and Terms

  1. Includes a Chair, Chair-Elect, and members.
  2. Chair-Elect is elected by the membership and succeeds to Chair.
  3. Members are appointed by the Board and serve defined terms.

Reporting

  1. The Chair reports to the Board and submits an annual report.
General Governance Provisions (All Committees)
  1. Committees are established by the Board and operate under its authority.
  2. Committees provide recommendations and support implementation of Board decisions.
  3. Members must comply with ISFTD bylaws, policies, and conflict of interest requirements.
  4. Committees should ensure diversity in geography, discipline, and career stage.
  5. Committees maintain records and report regularly to the Board.