Advisory Board

Background

Since the inception of the chapter, the board has passed down knowledge through board members ranging from contacts and knowledge about previous projects and best practices in running a non-profit like ours. The running of Wikimedia UK has also been based purely on the knowledge of the directors.

Reasons for an advisory board

• There is a distinct possibility that upon the inception of a new board, no previous directors exist from a previous board. Although the chapter should not be cemented in the way it operates, some institutional knowledge should be passed down from board to board to ensure the stability and continuity of the organisation.
• With only 7 directors it is near impossible to have an expert in all fields and therefore it is necessary to seek out advice from those with expert knowledge. It would be useful to have people that can approached without needing new board members to introduce themselves.
• Given valuable contacts and potential partners more of a link to Wikimedia UK so we can call on them for advice when needed.

Format

For the time being the advisory group will be informal. Participants will be invited on a case by case to be part of the advisory group. The idea is for members of the advisory board to be either active in supporting our activities or available to offer advice in specialist areas.

As the chapter grows there may be a case to formalise the advisory board.

Annual event

Coinciding with an in-person board meeting, a meal in London inviting all board members and all advisory board members.

The cost would be approx:

£30 per person for meal plus ~£50 per person for travel. Given that board members would be there already, cost is:

£30 x 14 + £50 * 7 = £770.