Johtokunnissa

Johtokunnissa refers to the governing bodies that oversee organizations such as associations, foundations, and other non-profit entities in Finland. The term designates the body that exercises strategic oversight and supervisory duties between the meetings of the general assembly or membership. The exact powers are defined in the organization's statutes, but common tasks include setting goals and policy, approving budgets and major investments, supervising the executive director or managing director, and ensuring compliance with laws and internal rules. Johtokunnat also monitor financial reporting, risk management, and ethics.

Composition and eligibility vary by organization. Members are typically elected by the general assembly or appointed according to the founding documents, and terms commonly span two to four years. The leadership usually includes a chair, a deputy chair, a secretary, and a treasurer. The joukuttuna may form committees, such as an audit or remuneration committee, to handle specific responsibilities. The executive director or president carries out daily operations, while the johtokunta provides strategic direction and oversight.

Meetings and decision-making follow formal procedures. Meetings are usually chaired by the chair, require a defined quorum, and decisions are made by majority vote. Minutes are recorded and kept as part of the organization's official records, and major decisions may require subsequent approval by the general assembly.

Relation to governance and accountability is central. The johtokunta acts on behalf of the organization between general meetings, but remains answerable to the member body and can be replaced or dismissed in accordance with statutes and legal requirements. In some contexts, especially smaller organizations, the term is used interchangeably with hallitus or board of directors, while in others it denotes a steering or supervisory body with a distinct role from day-to-day management.