About Ruby Central

Ruby Central is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the Ruby programming language and community. We steward foundational open source infrastructure such as RubyGems, Bundler, and RubyGems.org, and we support developers through community programs, technical events, and ongoing ecosystem investment.

Joining Ruby Central means contributing to the long-term sustainability and innovation of the Ruby ecosystem. We value transparency, inclusion, collaboration, and all things Ruby; both within our organization and across the global open source community.

About the Role

We are seeking new members to join the Ruby Central Board of Directors. Board members provide leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for the organization while ensuring it remains financially healthy, mission-driven, and community-focused.

This volunteer position is ideal for individuals passionate about the Ruby programming language and open source ecosystem, and who want to help sustain and grow the global Ruby community through thoughtful governance, strategic planning, and organizational stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Governance & Oversight

• Uphold the fiduciary duties of care, loyalty, and obedience, ensuring Ruby Central operates ethically, legally, and in alignment with its mission.

• Provide strategic oversight, guiding Ruby Central’s direction and priorities while empowering staff to lead implementation.

• Review and approve annual budgets, financial reports, and key organizational policies.

• Monitor risk management, compliance, and long-term organizational sustainability.

• Support, evaluate, and advise the Executive Director to ensure effective leadership and continuity.

Community & Mission Advancement

• Serve as an ambassador for Ruby Central and the Ruby programming language globally.

• Support Ruby Central’s conferences and initiatives, including RubyConf and RailsConf, through engagement and visibility.

• Explore and advise on new opportunities for community engagement, partnerships, and sustainable funding.

• Help evaluate and implement ideas that strengthen the Ruby ecosystem and support the developer community.

Collaboration & Participation

• Attend all scheduled board meetings and offsites.

• Participate in committee or working group assignments as needed (e.g., Finance, Governance, Events, or Community Engagement).

• Collaborate with staff and fellow directors to achieve shared goals and uphold the board’s vision.

Term & Commitment

• Length of Term: Two years, with the option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms (maximum of four years).

• Time Commitment: Approximately 2–10 hours per week depending on projects and organizational needs.

Meetings:

• Monthly board meetings (1–1.5 hours each)

• Extended meetings prior to conference events (ex. RubyConf, Fundraising Dinners)

• Annual in-person off-site board retreat (2 days)

Expectations of Board Members

• Come prepared and engaged to all meetings and discussions.

• Attend Ruby Central conferences (RubyConf) whenever possible.

• Participate in strategic planning and contribute to the board’s collective vision.

• Stay responsive on Slack and email.

• Welcome and engage with community members at events, fostering a sense of openness and inclusion.

• Represent Ruby Central and the Ruby community with integrity, respect, and professionalism.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds who are:

• Passionate about the Ruby programming language and open source community.

• Experienced in nonprofit, open source, governance, community, or technical leadership (preferred but not required).

• Strategic thinkers with strong collaboration and communication skills.

• Committed to transparency, inclusion, and accountability in open source and community work.

• Able to bring unique perspectives and expertise to help guide Ruby Central’s mission forward.

Why Join Ruby Central’s Board

Serving on the Ruby Central Board is an opportunity to help shape the future of Ruby and its global community. Board members play a vital role in strengthening the foundation of open source infrastructure, developer programs, and community connections worldwide.

As a board member, you will:

• Contribute to the sustainability and governance of the Ruby ecosystem.

• Collaborate with dedicated peers and staff members who care deeply about open source.

• Influence the strategic direction of an organization at the heart of the Ruby community.

• Help ensure Ruby Central continues to serve developers with transparency, inclusion, and impact.

Application Process

To express interest in the volunteer position for Ruby Central Board, please apply online here on our Careers page - https://rubycentral.teamtailor.com/.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in non-profits, open source, technology, and community leadership to apply.

Deadline: November 21st, 2025