Nominations for COSW Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is responsible for the management and activity of COSW, meeting four times a year online with additional meetings when needed. The maximum number of Directors is 12 and the minimum is 4. Directors are already or become Members of the Company.

Board Members must hold a social work qualification, have at least 10 years post qualifying experience, preferably have some experience of international affairs and demonstrate a commitment to be an active contributor to the work of the Organisation.

Board members are also members of the new Commonwealth Council which is made up of representatives from the 56 Commonwealth member countries. The Council members are the only formal members of COSW with voting rights. The Council meets at least twice a year.

Associates, individuals or organisations, can be involved in COSW activities and can influence the policy and activities of COSW. An annual Policy Forum is open to Associates and can shape COSW activities.

The COSW Appointments Committee has the constitutional role of reviewing nominations submitted and proposing names of Board Members to the Council for approval. The Appointments Committee must ensure that there is a proper balance in Board membership in respect of Commonwealth regions, gender, experience, interests and potential contribution.

There will be at least one Board member from each Commonwealth region, as defined by the Commonwealth Secretariat.

The Council votes to accept or reject each individual Board Member proposed; this is not an election between nominees but rather approval or not of each nominee.

The Board Members appoint one of their number to serve as President of COSW, and others to serve as Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and Main Representative to Commonwealth Institutions. The names of Honorary Officers are presented to the Council for ratification.

The establishment of the new Council and renewal of the Board signify a crucial moment in the history of COSW as it enhances inclusion and diversity.

How to submit nominations

Nominations are welcome from qualified social workers who can demonstrate leadership experience (in a significant organisation), international knowledge and experience, access to the internet and commitment to Commonwealth and social work values (see https://thecommonwealth.org/charter).

Nominations can be submitted by individuals or organisations on a nomination form which is available on our website https://cosw.info/governance/. Self-nomination is acceptable.

Submit forms to COSW.cw@gmail.com

Closing date is Monday 30th June 2025 at midnight UK time (UTC/GMT +1).