The role of the Chairperson is, primarily, to preside at meetings and to facilitate the conduct of business at the meetings. The Chairperson is normally consulted by the Secretary in advance of meetings to agree an agenda and order of business. Although the Board sits in a corporate capacity, it is normal practice, in the case of an emergency or when convening a meeting is impracticable, that the Secretary, in consultation with the Chairperson, acts on behalf of the Board.

Upon exercising power in this manner, it is incumbent on the Secretary and the Chairperson to report fully to the next Board meeting and to ensure that the matter is adequately recorded in the minutes.