Appointment Contract

Executive Director

Appointment Type: Temporary Volunteer (Pending Funding Availability)

Tenure Duration: Five (5) Years

Commencement Date: 2024

Expiry Date: 2029

1. Nature of Appointment

The position of Executive Director is voluntary and temporary in nature. This appointment is made with the understanding that remuneration is subject to the availability of funds. Until such time, the Executive Director serves in a non-salaried capacity. However, the organization may provide stipends, reimbursements, or honoraria as determined by funding availability and Board of Trustees' approval.

2. Working Hours & Commitment

The appointee is expected to commit approximately 25–35 hours per week. Working hours are flexible and should accommodate the needs of the organization. The Executive Director is expected to be regularly available for staff coordination, external representation, institutional communication, and strategic meetings, whether in-person or virtual.

3. Key Responsibilities

The Executive Director shall be responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of ACIPS, with a specific focus on the study and preservation of intangible cultural heritage in Africa. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Academic Leadership:
  • Oversee research projects and initiatives related to intangible phenomena.
  • Foster collaborations with researchers, scholars, and communities across Africa.
  • Promote the dissemination of knowledge through publications, conferences, and workshops.
• Strategic Planning:
  • Develop and implement strategic plans in alignment with ACIPS’s mission and goals.
  • Secure funding for research and operational activities.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs and initiatives.
• Community Engagement:
  • Build strong relationships with communities and stakeholders across Africa.
  • Ensure that research projects are conducted ethically and respectfully.
  • Facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building within communities.
• Financial Management:
  • Oversee the financial health of the organization, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
  • Ensure compliance with financial regulations and standards.
• Board Relations:
  • Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Trustees.
  • Prepare and present reports to the Board on organizational performance and strategic initiatives.
• External Relations:
  • Represent ACIPS at public events, conferences, and meetings.
  • Build and maintain relationships with international organizations and funding agencies.

4. Reporting & Accountability

The Executive Director shall report to the ACIPS Board of Trustees. Quarterly performance and progress reports must be submitted to the Board. Performance will also be evaluated during bi-annual review sessions. Any misconduct, negligence, or failure to meet performance expectations may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.

5. Working Conditions & Institutional Support

The organization provides shared administrative support and virtual collaboration platforms (such as cloud storage, internal communication tools, and email). Approved travel expenses, workshop participation, and materials for official duties may be reimbursed subject to budget approval. Workspace may be physical or remote based on operational needs.

6. Confidentiality, Ethics & Integrity

The appointee shall uphold the highest standards of confidentiality, ethical behavior, and professionalism. Unauthorized disclosure of research findings, institutional information, or private communication may constitute grounds for dismissal. Integrity and objectivity must be maintained in all internal and external dealings.

7. Termination & Resignation

The appointment may be terminated by either party with a minimum of 30 days’ written notice. The Board may terminate this agreement for just cause including, but not limited to, misconduct, mismanagement, or breach of policy. In such cases, appropriate internal procedures shall be followed.

8. Governing Law & Dispute Resolution

This contract shall be governed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Disputes shall first be resolved through internal mediation. If unresolved, matters may be escalated to a neutral arbitration panel approved by both parties.

9. Acceptance of Appointment

By signing this document, the appointee affirms their acceptance of this role and the conditions herein, and commits to serving the African Centre for Indigenous Phenomenon Studies (ACIPS) with dedication, transparency, and accountability.

Signed for ACIPS:		Date:
Appointee:		Date:
Witness:		Date: