The Nominating Committee of Scouts Canada is seeking applications for candidates for the National Board of Governors. Candidates should be committed to the values and principles of Scouting, should believe firmly that the Scouting movement is of benefit to Canadian society, and should be respected for their honesty, integrity and personal ethics. Youth members are encouraged to apply to join the Board.
What is the Board of Governors?
The Board of Governors is the senior decision-making body in Scouts Canada and is responsible for ensuring that the organization adheres to its Mission and Principles and has a strong strategic direction to guide its activities. The Board ensures that appropriate policies and procedures are in place across Scouts Canada, and that an appropriate management team is in place to direct and oversee all activities.
There are 16 Board members, including the Chair, Vice-Chair Strategic, Vice-Chair Finance, Past Chair and nine members at large, as well as the National Key 3 (CEO, National Commissioner and National Youth Commissioner).
Scouts Canada’s Bylaw requires that the Board includes a minimum of three youth members, with at least two members from Ontario/Nunavut and at least one member from each of BC/Yukon, Alberta/NWT, Manitoba/Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada. Board members serve for a one-year term, renewable for up to six years. Board members are expected to attend a minimum of four-weekend meetings per year and to participate in Board committees and/or working groups.
Full information on the role and responsibilities of the Board can be found in our Bylaw, which is available here.
Nominations Process, Skills and Diversity
This year, the Nominating Committee anticipates that a number of positions will become vacant at the end of the current Board term in November, and wishes to compile a slate of candidates for the full Board by reviewing applications from both returning Board members and new candidates. As such, the Committee is soliciting nominations for all Board positions (except the National Key 3 roles).
That said, based on the current Board composition and terms, we have a particular interest in identifying a new Chair of the Board of Governors, as well as a new member who resides in Quebec. Board members will be elected by Scouts Canada’s voting members at the Annual General Meeting on Saturday, November 18, 2023.
In reviewing applications, the Nominating Committee will consider candidates’ experience and skills, including:
- Previous Scouting Experience (including roles as a youth member or Section Scouter)
- Board Skills (including previous membership of other boards or similar bodies)
- Professional or Domain Experience (key areas include finance, fundraising, digital, marketing, risk management and strategy)
- Soft Skills (including accountability, independence, leadership, maturity, team player, diligence, communication and listening)
Youth members are strongly encouraged to apply to join the Board. The Nominating Committee also strongly encourages applications from diverse candidates from across Canada in line with Scouts Canada’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
How Can People Apply?
You may submit your own name or recommend another nominee. Each submission must be accompanied by a resume and a written confirmation from the individual acknowledging that they are willing to serve and have an understanding of the position. Candidates may also include a brief statement (maximum 400 words) that includes any additional information or a view of what they hope to bring to the position. Submissions should be sent to the Chair of the Nominating Committee at skent@scouts.ca by July 23, 2023.
